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Current Obituaries from the Michigan
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ADAMS
- DAVIS
DICKIE - LINDSAY LITTLE - SLONE
SMITH - YARBROUGH
DICKIE - Lawrence Dickie
- Services for Lawrence (Larry) Dickie were held February 17 at Mt. Calvary
Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Timothy A. Williams officiating.
Mr. Dickie was 51 years old. Born November 20, 1945, Mr. Dickie attended
the Detroit Public Schools and graduated from Eastern High School. Mr.
Dickie leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Barbara; children, Nichelle,
Nichilas, Neequann, Leonell and Latrese; seven grandchildren, Johnny,
Matthew, LaNique, Demarius, Nicholas, Brandon and Arneesa; cousin, Vernard;
son-in-law, Marly; daughter-in-law, Simone; two brothers-in-law, Michael
and Broderick; six sisters-in-law, Shelley, Vanessa, Jenette, Doreen,
Cassandra and Verneitta, and a host of other family members. Arrangements
were made by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment was at Trinity Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, March 26 - April 1, 1997, pg. D-5).
DISMUKES - Roy Dismukes
III - Services for Roy LeGrant (Chico) Dismukes III were held January
30 at New Providence Baptist Church. Rev. Everett N. Jennings officiated.
Mr. Dismukes, 21, died January 25. Mr. Dismukes was born February 17,
1975. He attended Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School in Detroit.
He was set to marry his fiancee, Veda Caston. He is survived by his mother,
JoAnna Dismukes; father, Roy Dismukes Jr.; son, Roy Dismukes IV; brother,
Reginald "Reco" Dismukes; sisters, Crystal Oreal, Alicia, Victoria
and Yvonna Dismukes; grandparents, E.B. and Edna Simmons, Fannie M. Brown
and Roy Dismukes Sr.; special cousins Dennis and Waiinine Simmons; niece,
Destinee Harris; and a host of special cousins, aunts, uncles and other
relatives. Interment was at Lincoln Memorial Park. Arrangements were handled
by Swanson Funeral Homes Inc. (Michigan Chronicle, March 26 - April 1,
1997, pg. D-4).
DIXON - Donald Dixon
- Pastor Richard Smith officiated at the January 3 services held for Donald
Dixon at Chapel Hill Baptist Church. Mr. Dixon, 60, died Dec. 28. Born
July 16, 1936 in Detroit, Mr. Dixon was educated in the Detroit Public
Schools, graduating from Miller High School in 1955. Starting off his
employment career as an independent painter, Mr. Dixon was later employed
by the General Motors Company as a crib attendant before taking an early
retirement. A quiet, even-tempered man, he enjoyed traveling and spending
his summers on cruises. Mr. Dixon is survived by his brother, Isaiah;
sisters, Hazel Norris, Versa Coley, Elizabeth Sheffield and Mattie Hillman;
13 nephews, 18 nieces and many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson
Funeral Home. Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle,
February 19-28, 1997 page D-6)
DRISCOLL - Adam Driscoll
- Services were held at Thompson Funeral Home, April 22, for Adam Driscoll,
with the Rev. Charles L. Bennett officiating. Mr. Driscoll, 80, died April
17 at his home. Born June 24, 1916, Mr. Driscoll worked for the city of
Detroit and retired after 29 years of service. He was a proud man who
loved his job very much. He is survived by his wife, Margaret; children,
Frances, Marion, Diane, Rosetta, Benjamin, Ronald and Lawrence; stepdaughter,
Mildred; 32 grandchildren; 52 great-grandchildren; sisters, Sarah Vincent
and Claudia Napoleon; and many others. Interment was at Westlawn Cemetery
in Wayne. (Michigan Chronicle, April 30 - May 3, 1997, page D-6)
DUDLEY - Fannie Dudley -
Elder Marshall Hall officiated at the Dec. 30 services held for Fannie
Delores Dudley at the Greenfield chapel of Thompson Funeral Homes. Mrs.
Dudley died Dec. 27 in her daughters home. She was 79. Born March 31,
1917 in Martinville, Virginia, Mrs. Dudley was educated and raised
in Cleveland, Ohio. Married to the late Elwood Dudley in 1954,
the family later moved to Detroit. A member of St. Timothy Episcopal Church,
Mrs. Dudley was politically and socially active in her community. She
loved sewing, collecting artifacts, teaching ceramics and traveling. Mrs.
Dudley is survived by her daughters, Michelle Hollis and Dr. Theresa Rene
Stanton; son, Elwood Dudley, Jr., and many other relatives. (Michigan
Chronicle, January 22-28, 1997, page 4-D)
DUKES - Harold Dukes
- Services for former professional football player Harold C. Dukes were
held Tuesday, April 29, in the Swanson Funeral Home eastside chapel. Mr.
Dukes, who played pro ball with the San Francisco 49ers and Toronto Argonauts,
died Friday, April 25 in the Heartland Health Care Facility, Livonia.
He was 61. A native Detroiter, he was born July 11, 1935. A product of
Barstow, Barbour and Eastern High Schools, he was an outstanding athlete-All
City in football, basketball, and track. He played on the Hope College
NAIA basketball championship team (1953-57). A highlight of his athletic
career was to play in the 1956 Rose Bowl game in which MSU defeated UCLA
by a field goal. After earning a B.A. degree in business administration
in 1958, he played briefly with the 49ers, then with the Argonauts until
1961 when a knee injury ended his career. He continued to live in Toronto
where he owned a successful haberdashery. IN 1966, Mr. Dukes returned
home and worked in various labor relations positions with Chrysler Corp.,
Coca-Cola, Vernor's and Faygo, his last corporate position being with
Allied Chemical Corp. In 1982, he became a self-employed labor relations
consultant. In 1955, Mr. Dukes suffered a brain aneurysm and during his
extended illness was treated at several area medical facilities. He is
survived by his mother, Rosalee; father: Thomas Sr.; three nephews, Thomas
D. McLilly, Harold and Donald Dukes; a niece, Kimberly Dukes Shavers;
five grandnieces and grandnephews, and other relatives. Burial was at
Elmwood Cemetery. The family requests that memorials be sent to the United
Negro College Fund or to Michigan State University Athletic Dept., East
Lansing. (Michigan Chronicle, May 14-20, 1997, pg. D-5).
EDWARDS - Margaret L.
Edwards - Services for Margaret Louise Edwards were held at Kingdom
Hall, April 8, with Brother Kenneth Dantzler officiating. Mrs. Edwards,
64, died April 2. Born February 17, 1933 in Ann Arbor, Mrs. Edwards, known
as Peggy, spent the early part of her childhood in Ypsilanti before moving
to Detroit. She was educated at Cass Technical High School. During her
life, Mrs. Edwards worked at a wide variety of jobs. Among her employers
were Sinai Hospital, Wayne County, the U.S. Postal Service, Comerica Bank
and First Federal Bank. She also enjoyed traveling with family and friends,
and had the opportunity to travel from coast to coast. Mrs. Edwards is
survived by her husband, James Sr.; sons, Marc, James Jr., and Daryl;
grandchildren, Apryl, Ambyr, Mario and Ellisa; and many others. Interment
was at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens in Livonia. Arrangements were handled
by Peace Chapel Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle, April 16-22, 1997,
pg. D-5).
EMERY - Cora L. Emery
- Services for Cora Lee Emery were held Saturday, February 1 at Full Gospel
Church of God in Christ. Mrs. Emery died Sunday, January 26, in St. Michael's
Hospice Center following an extended battle with cancer. She was 46. Born
July 19, 1950, she was one of 17 children born to the late Mr. and Mrs.
Wilton Garner. She married Clydius Emery in 1979 and was employed with
the Board of Education until becoming ill. At Full Gospel Tabernacle,
she was a member of the Usher Board and Choir. Mrs. Emery is survived
by four daughters, Regina Garner, Sarah, Rochelle and LaShawn Emery; a
son, Terry; two adopted sons, Corey Miller and Kenneth Malloy; nine sisters
and brothers, 23 grandchildren and many other relatives. Burial was at
Gethsemane Cemetery. Arrangements were by Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan
Chronicle, March 19-25, 1997, page D-5).
FINLEY - June Finley
- Rev. Henry Davis officiated over services for June Siretha Finley on
Wednesday, March 26, at the Thompson Funeral Home's Greenfield chapel.
Mrs. Finley, 65, died on March 19. Born July 5, 1931 in East St. Louis,
Illinois, Mrs. Finley joined the Christ at Saint Luke AME Church in
East St. Louis. She married Eugene Finley on August 19, 1950. Mrs. Finley
and her husband moved to Detroit in September 1953. Mrs. Finley is survived
by her mother, Ossie McKinney; sister, Darlene Averitte; daughter-in-law,
Arleathia Finley; six grandchildren, Marcus Larkins, Tanisha Marie Finley,
Michael Jerome Finley, Reneathia LaNise Finley, Kelley Sherri Finley and
Brendan James Finley; 26 nieces and nephews; and other relatives. Interment
was at Elmwood Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by the Thompson Funeral
Home, Inc. (Michigan Chronicle, April 9-15, 1997, page D-6).
FLOYD - Cora Floyd
- Services for Cora Floyd, 88, were held Jan. 11 at Greater St. Peter
AME Zion Church with the Rev. G. A. Stewart officiating. Ms. Floyd died
Jan. 1 at Riverview Hospital. Born in Angulla, Mississippi on June
3, 1908, Ms. Floyd moved to Detroit in 1943. After arriving in Detroit
she worked briefly for the Chrysler Corp. and became a member of Greater
St. Peter AME Zion and the Eastern Star. A neighborhood "icon,"
she was known as Miss Bessie in the Detroit Neighborhood where she had
lived for 50 years. Ms. Floyd is survived by her sister, Gertrude Williams;
nieces, Alberta, Earnestine, Jerry, Diane, Andre, Debra and Lilly; nephew,
Lucious, and many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral
Home. Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle, February
12-18, 1997, page D-5).
FOUNTAIN - Eli Fountain
- Well known Detroit musician Eli Fountain died Sunday, Feb. 2 of a heart
attack. Mr. Fountain died in his sleep at the age of 61. A noted jazz
saxophonist, he was one of the original Motown studio musicians who helped
define the Motown sound. He worked with such superstars as Frank Sinatra,
Isaac Hayes, Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, Supremes, Mavis Staples and
Johnny Taylor. Most recently he toured with the Dramatics and has worked
with numerous other famous entertainers. Mr. Fountain is survived by five
sons, Eli Philip, Gary, Leslie, Marcus and Myron; a brother, Joe Fountain
Jr., and many other relatives and friends. (Michigan Chronicle, February
5-11, 1997, page D-6)
FRANKLIN - Curtis Franklin
- Services for Curtis Franklin were held Dec. 20 in the Dexter chapel
of Thompson Funeral Home with the Rev. Sam Knolton officiating. Mr. Franklin
died Dec. 16 in Harper Hospital. He was 55. Born October 9, 1941 in Detroit,
he was a product of the Detroit Public Schools. He later worked for the
Board of Education as a maintenance person. Mr. Franklin loved to sew
and made many outfits for himself and his friends. Playing the piano and
dancing were his favorite pastimes. He is survived by his sisters, Jurlean
Franklin and Delores Fortson; brothers, Robert, William, Allen
and Barnard, and many other relatives. Cremation was by Tri-County Cremation
Services. (Michigan Chronicle, January 8-14, 1997, page 4-D).
FRAZIER - John Frazier
Jr. - Services for John Frazier Jr. were held March 3 at the Dexter
chapel of Thompson Funeral Homes with Bishop Phillip Pulliam officiating.
Mr. Frazier died Feb. 22 in Henry Ford Hospital. He was 36. Born July
6, 1990 in Detroit, Mr. Frazier was known as a caring and loving person.
He is survived by his children, Latisha, Brigette, John Jerome and Jerrick
Frazier; parents, Edna and John Frazier Sr.; 10 sisters, 11 brothers and
many others. Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park - West.
FREEMAN - Jean Freeman
- Funeral services for Jean Elaine Freeman were held Wednesday, March
12, at Corinthian Baptist Church with Rev. Joseph Jordan officiating.
Mrs. Freeman died Marc h4 at the age of 63. Mrs. Freeman was born in Cincinnati
on May 18, 1933 to the late Elizabeth and Clement Jones. After
the family moved to Detroit, she attended Detroit public schools, including
Miller High School. In 1954 Mrs. Freeman married Thomas Freeman. From
this union came five children. She was employed at the Detroit Board of
Education, retiring after 32 years of service. Left behind to cherish
wonderful memories of Jean Elaine Freeman are two daughters, Annise and
Denise; three sons, Dwayne, William and Thomas; two sisters, one brother,
five grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many other relatives.
(Michigan Chronicle, April 30 - May 3, 1997, page D-6)
GARNER - Warren C. Garner
- Services were scheduled to be held Wednesday, Feb. 5 for Warren C. Garner
in Tazewell, Virginia. Garner died of an apparent heart attack
Feb. 2. He was 76. A well known real estate broker, Garner was the husband
of former Chronicle columnist June Brown Garner and the uncle of Detroit
Mayor Dennis W. Archer. The Garners had moved to Virginia last year. Although
Garner was born in Detroit and grew up in Cassopolis, his family's
roots were in Tazewell. "His ancestors can be traced here
as far back as the Revolutionary War," said his wife, speaking by
phone from Tazewell. "They fought (and three of them died) in the
Revolutionary War." A veteran of World War II, he was awarded four
bronze stars and medals for victory, good conduct and as an infantry bayonet
sharpshooter. Returning to Detroit, he developed a successful career in
real estate. According to former Chronicle advertising account executive
W. George Cutler, "when Warren married June in 1961, the Chronicle
gained another team player." Not only was Garner praised as a devoted
supporter and career helpmate to his wife, who was a popular Chronicle
columnist and also classified advertising manager, he was rated as a top
golfer. "He played in the first group of the Chronicle golf team,"
said Cutler, who was team captain. "Every tournament we won at the
time was with his help. He was very conscientious, but he was always as
much of a gentleman as he was a golfer." Mayor Archer remembers that
his uncle "gave me my first golf club and later my first set of golf
clubs. He helped me with my game, but I was never able to beat him."
In terms of positive emotional role playing, Mayor Archer said that Garner
"had always been more like a big brother, or another father, rather
than an uncle." "He always encouraged me to think about college,"
said Archer, recalling that as a young man he had to weigh the benefits
of going into the service. "He told me to keep working and work your
way through school. He enjoyed working all of his life." The Garners
continued to work and operate a business in the Detroit after moving to
Holly in 1967. There they farmed and raised horses until retiring in 1996.
In addition to his wife and nephew, Garner is survived by a daughter,
Dr. Sylvia Mustonen; an adopted son, Michael; a brother, James Garner;
and two granddaughters, Michelle Corwin and Angela Mustonen. (Michigan
Chronicle, February 5-11, 1997, page D-6)
GIPSON - John Gipson
- Services for John H. Gipson were held Tuesday, January 28 at Nardin
Park Reform Church. Officiating was the Rev. Robert J. Morris. Mr. Gipson
died Wednesday, Jan. 22. He was 61. Born April 10, 1935 in Doddsville,
Mississippi, he moved to Detroit at age 17. Electing to expand his
education, he completed a state certification program for diesel mechanics.
His professional performance and integrity was recognized by his peers
and supervisors and he was elected a union steward, a position he held
until his health began to fail. Mr. Gipson is survived by his wife, Alverteen;
children, Razor, Sheila, Stephanie and Dion; two sisters, Martha Rias
and Joyce Willis, sisters Lydiann Johnson and Rosie Peterson, four grandchildren
and many other relatives. Burial was at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Arrangements
were handled by the Thompson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle, February
5-11, 1997, page D-6)
GLOVER - Gaetonio Glover
Sr. - Bishop Andrew Meritt officiated at the Feb. 8 services for Gaetonio
Glover Sr. at Straight Gate Church. Mr. Glover died Feb. 1. He was 64.
Born October 16, 1932 in Birmingham Alabama. Mr. Glover was educated
in Birmingham. He graduated from Parker High in 1950. A veteran of the
U.S. Army, he received training as a lathe operator. A member of Lather's
Local Union No. 5 and 7, and Interior Systems No. 1045, Mr. Glover worked
in the construction field for more than 40 years. He had also been a member
of Straight Gate Church for many years. Mr. Glover is survived by his
wife, Mattie Glover; children, Gaetonio Jr., Tanya and Rodrick; grandchildren,
Keith, Jason, Dominique, Breanna and Christian; great-grandchild, Sierra;
brother, Phillip Glover Jr.; sister, Naedis Harris, and many others. Arrangements
were handled by O. H. Pye III Funeral Home. Interment was at Detroit Memorial
Park-West. (Michigan Chronicle, March 12-18, Page D-4).
GREEN - Richard P. Green
Sr. - Services for Richard P. Green, Sr. Were held at St. Gregory
the Great Catholic Church, April 4, with Fr. Ron DeHondt officiating.
Mr. Green, 70, died March 31. Born January 14, 1927 in Yazoo City,
Mississippi, Mr. Green later became a member of St. Gregory the Great.
He is survived by his wife, Theresa; sons, Ruben, Manuel (Porky), Porfidio,
Richard, Jr., Tony, Joseph, William and Delfino; daughters, Rosa, Tina,
Lisa, Angelina and Sharon; thirty grandchildren, one great-grandson; three
sisters; and many others. Interment was at Holy Sepulcher in Southfield.
Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle,
May 14-20, 1997, pg. D-5).
GRIFFIN - Fannie Griffin
- Services for Fannie Griffin were held at Souls for Christ Deliverance
Center, April 18, with Pastor Ike Bell, officiating. Mrs. Griffin, 69,
died April 12. Mrs. Griffin was born August 3, 1927 in Brownsville,
Tennessee and attended Carver High School in Brownsville. After moving
to Detroit she joined New Hope Baptist Church at an early age and in 1983
joined Souls for Christ Deliverance Center. She is survived by her children,
Earl Thomas, Erma Jeanne, Georgetta Bettye, Joseph, Sally, Joanne, Lizabeth,
Linda and Jeffrey; 11 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; 13 brothers
and sisters and many others. Interment was at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Arrangements
were handled by Thompson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle, April 30 -
May 3, 1997, page D-6)
GROVE - Elbert Grove
- Services for Elbert Grove Sr. were held Jan. 25 at Holy Cross Baptist
Church with the Rev. Edwon D. Brown officiating. Mr. Grove died Jan. 21.
He was 82. Born Aug. 29, 1914 in Millport, Alabama, he attended
Millport Public Schools. Married to the former Margie Mills in
1944, the couple moved to Detroit in 1954. A member of Holy Cross since
the mid-50's, Mr. Grove served in the armed forces before going to work
for Ford Motor Co., where he was employed 23 years. He enjoyed carpentry
and he had a great love for cars. Mr. Grove is survived by his wife, Margie;
daughters, Mary Grace and Margie Marie; sons, Elbert Jr. and Maurice;
12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, brothers, Odell, Harvey, Henry
Jr., and Wenston; sisters, Omila, Bernice, Vera, Ruby, Shirley, Virginia,
Cutee, Josephine and Authorine, and many other relatives. Arrangements
were handled by Thompson Funeral Home. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, February 12-18, 1997, page D-7).
HARBIN - Janice Harbin
- Services for Janice Yvonne Harbin were held February 20 at Swanson Funeral
Home, with Rev. Turner officiating. Ms. Harbin, 53, died February 12.
Born November 6, 1943, Ms. Harbin was a nurse, business administrator,
and model industrial psychologist. She attended Holy Redeemer Catholic
Church in Flint. She is survived by her children, Bonita Steen Nichols,
William Steen, and MaCarl Deruso; eight grandchildren; one great grand
child; brothers , Keith, Wayne, Bryan and Trent; sister, Andrea Jolly;
and many others. Interment was at Metropolitan Memorial Garden in Belleville.
Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle,
March 26 - April 1, 1997, pg. D-4).
HARDAWAY - Margret Hardaway
- Services for Margret Thelma Hardaway were held Friday, February 28,
in the Thompson Funeral Home Greenfield chapel. Bishop Phillip Pulliam
officiated. Mrs. Hardaway died February 23 at the age of 80. Born January
1 in Gadsden, Alabama, she attended the public schools there and
became a member of the Church of God in Christ. She married the late Lee
Taylor Hardaway in 1949, a marriage that lasted until his death in 1982.
Mrs. Hardaway was a voracious reader and connoisseur of fine fashions,
and especially enjoyed the company of her grandchildren. Her survivors
include two sisters, Naomi Green and Imogene Thornton; four daughters,
Phylis Grisham, Patricia Hardaway, JoAnn Williams and Deborah Wines; 14
grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and many other relatives. Burial
was at Detroit Memorial Park East. (Michigan Chronicle, March 26 - April
1, 1997, pg. D-5).
HARDY - James R. Hardy
- Services for James R. Hardy were held at Thompson Funeral Home, April
25, with Bishop Phillip Pulliam officiating. Mr. Hardy, 67, died April
19. Born January 6, 1930 in Meridian, Mississippi, Mr. Hardy, known
to his friends as "J.R." graduated from Stephenson Vocational
High School in Toonsuba, Mississippi where he played football. In 1952
he joined the Army and fought in Korea. After his second discharge, Mr.
Hardy moved to Detroit. He began his own lawn care and snow removal companies.
He also worked at the Hudson Machine Company until he retired. Mr. Hardy
is survived by his mother, Arnetta; wife, Josephine; daughter, Patricia
Clayton; six grandchildren; sisters, Ida, Lucy and Flossy; brothers, Ornie
and John; and many others. Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park West
in Redford. (Michigan Chronicle, May 14-20, 1997, pg. D-5).
HARRELL - Peggy J. Harrell
- Services for Peggy J. Harrell were held Dec. 27 at Hartford Memorial
Baptist Church, where she was president of the Usher Board and sponsor
of the Youth Usher Board. Mrs. Harrell died Dec. 21 at the age
of 50. Born June 10, 1946 in Monticello, Kentucky, she was reared
in Lebanon, Ohio. She graduated from Lebanon High School with honors
and received her bachelor's in business education from the University
of Toledo and master's from Bowling Green University. Married to auto
dealer Charles Harrell Sr. for 29 years, she was a recent graduate of
the National Automobile Dealership Academy. Mrs. Harrell began her teaching
career at Rogers High School in Toledo, and taught business courses at
Farmington and Oak Park High schools. Her last teaching assignment was
at Southfield High School where she was the first African American teacher
employed there. Her civic and professional accomplishments are numerous.
A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., she was first vice president
and president of the Southfield Alumni Chapter, and president of the Delta
SAC Foundation. She served on committees such as May Week, Ways and Means,
Odyssey chairperson, African American Homecoming and the Delteens. her
lifelong commitment to helping others was recognized by the NAACP which
presented her a community award. In addition to her husband, Mrs. Harrell
is survived by a daughter, Lisa M. Randon; son, Charles Jr.; parents,
John and Mary Duncan II; sisters, Katherine Snow, Mary McNeill,
Linda Hamilton, Paulette Hamilton, Norma Duncan and Ramona
Strickland; brother John H. Duncan III, and many other relatives.
Arrangements were handled by the Swanson Funeral Home and the Oswald Hoskins
Funeral Home in Lebanon, Ohio. Burial was in Lebanon. The family requested
that donations be made to the Delta SAC Foundation. Contributions should
be made payable to Delta SAC Foundation, Peggy J. Harrell Scholarship
Fund, and mailed to P.O. Box 2787, Southfield, MI 48034. (Michigan Chronicle,
January 8-14, 1997, page 4-D).
HARRIS - Branford D. Harris
- Pastor John L. Webb officiated at the Jan. 16 services held for Branford
Daryl Harris at New Mt. Vernon Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Harris,
39, died Jan. 10 after being severely burned in a Dec. 31 fire while saving
the lives of his loved ones. Born Dec. 4, 1957, Mr. Harris was affectionately
known as Daryl. He was raised in Royal Oak Township. A 1975 graduate of
Oak Park High School, he later attended Soumi College in northern Michigan.
As a youth, Mr. Harris had a special interest in athletics and music.
He had played the cello and organ while in junior high school and later
was a member of Oak Park High School's football team. Mr. Harris had been
employed by Chrysler Corp., but his interest in construction management
motivated him to become self-employed, an accomplishment he was especially
proud of. He specialized in home improvement. Mr. Harris is survived by
his life partner, Treva Hutchinson; daughters, Bonita and Monique; sons,
Demetrious and Dominique; parents, Reuben and Gloria Harris; brothers,
Benjamin Edward, Reuben Hamilton III and Hiram Emmanuel; sisters, Emily
Yvonne, Bonita Gaisey and Deborah Williams, and many others. (Michigan
Chronicle, February 12-18, 1997, page D-5).
HARRIS - Trevor Harris -
Last rites for Trevor Martin Harris were held December 23 in the Thompson
Funeral Home Dexter chapel, Bishop Phillip Pulliam officiated. Mr. Harris
died December 17 at the age of 26. Born January 6, 1970, he attended Detroit
Public Schools and joined Meditation Baptist Church in his youth. He is
survived by his mother, Linda Faye Harris; father, Trevor Martin Bundy;
sister, Erica Harris; three nieces, his grandmother, Mrs. Joe V. Harris;
three aunts, three great-aunts and other relatives. Cremation was
at Tri-County Crematory in Ypsilanti. (Michigan Chronicle, December 31
- January 7, 1997, page 6-D).
HARVEY - Floretta Harvey
- Services for Floretta Harvey were held Friday, December 20, in the Greenfield
chapel of Thompson Funeral Home. Mrs. Harvey died Monday, December 16,
four days after her 82nd birthday. Born December 16, 1914 in Mobile,
Alabama, her family moved to Detroit in 1923. She was educated in
the Detroit Public Schools system. She worked at Henry Ford Hospital as
a LPN. She was one of the first LPN's selected for charge duty of a unit,
supervising the care of EMT ophthalmology and urology patients. Mrs. Harvey
attended Adult Day School and graduated with recommendations to Wayne
State University for further study in journalism. She joined Shiloh Baptist
Church in 1927, serving as a choir member and usher, and subsequently
the first female had of the church's Trustees Board. (Michigan Chronicle,
December 31 - January 7, 1997, page 6-D).
HEARNS - Jeffrey H. Hearns
- Services were held at Eastern Star Missionary Baptist Church, March
10, for Jeffrey Hayes Hearns. Mr. Hearns, 19, died March 4. Born November
29, 1977, Mr. Hearns attended Coleman Young Elementary School, Michigan
Institute for Child Development and graduated from Mumford High School
in June 1995. He also attended the Breithaupt Vocational Institute, where
he enjoyed creating cakes and pastries. Until he became ill, Mr. Hearns
worked at Sinai Hospital in the Dietary Services Department. He loved
all sports, but had a special passion for basketball. He is survived by
his mother and stepfather, Bruce and Linda White; father, Jeffrey Porter;
grandmothers, Malinda Hearns, Janet Porter and Ann White; brother, Jason;
sister, Samantha; and many others. Interment was at United Memorial Gardens
in Plymouth. Arrangements were handled by Thompson Funeral Home. (Michigan
Chronicle, March 19-25, 1997, page D-6).
HEMPHILL - Edward Hemphill
- Edward Eugene Hemphill was buried in Woodlawn Cemetery, March 29, after
services at Gracious Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church. Mr. Hemphill,
79, died March 22. Born in North Carrollton, Mississippi, Mr. Hemphill
was the seventh of 18 children. Only four remain living today. Mr. Hemphill
married in 1938 and moved to Detroit. He was employed by Chrysler Corporation
and the city of Detroit. He retired as a city employee after 38 years.
He is survived by his wife, Louise; sons, Howard, Woody and Luther; daughter,
Shirley; sisters, Emma Malone and Christine Moorer; brothers, Godfrey
Lee Hemphill and Robert Hemphill of Temple, Texas; sisters-in-law, Heneritta
Hemphill of North Carrollton, Kay Hemphill of Temple, Texas, Zeporah Bryson,
Ora Dowing and Lillie Hemphill; brothers-in-law, Ivory Dowing, and Frank
Malone; 23 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery. Thompson Funeral Home Inc. handled
the arrangements and Gracious Savior Evangelical Lutheran Pastor Carla
Nelson officiated. (Michigan Chronicle, April 9-15, 1997, page D-6).
HILL - George E. Hill
- Services for George E. Hill, a senior vice president with Golden State
Mutual Life Insurance Company in Los Angeles, were held recently. Memorial
services were held at Los Angeles' Second Baptist Church and Winston-Salem
North Carolina's First Baptist Church. Hill, 58, the former president
and CEO of Winston Mutual Life Insurance Company, joined Golden State
when the two companies merged in 1985. Hill was responsible for administrative
and customer services and claims, as well as other areas of the company.
He also served on the Golden State board of directors and was president
of the Golden State Mutual Securities Corp. Hill is survived by his wife,
Susan Cole Hill; mother, Geneva C. Hill; daughters, Denise M. Hill and
Renee C. Hill; brother, William K. Hill; sister, Marie H. Roseboro; and
a host of nieces and nephews. (Michigan Chronicle, April 9-15, 1997, page
D-5).
HILL - Columbus Hill - Services
for Columbus Hill were held Oct. 14 at Truelight Baptist church with the
Rev. James Moore officiating. Mr. Hill died Oct. 8. He was 67. Born July
17, 1929, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Mr. Hill was a veteran of the
U.S. Army. A deacon at Truelight Baptist Church, he had been employed
as a mechanic. Mr. Hill is survived by his wife, Bernice; sons, Robert
Jonathan and Curtis; daughters, Josephine, Willa and Jasmine; grandchildren,
Kevin, Detra, Kareem, Karida, Keyairia and Kativa; brothers, Willie, James
and Lawrence; sisters, Susie and Bessie, and many other relatives. Arrangements
were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment was at Lincoln Memorial
Park Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle, January 8-14, 1997, page 4-D).
HINES - Jim Hines Sr.
- Services for Jim Hines Sr. were held March 11 at Swanson Funeral Home
in Detroit. Mr. Hines, 79, died March 5. Mr. Hines was born in Holt,
Alabama on May 7, 1917. He worked at Great Lakes Steel for 33 years
until his retirement in 1980. Known by friends and family as "Papa,"
Mr. Hines loved automobiles, travel and gardening. He is survived by his
wife, Viola "Honey"; brother, John Lee of Holt, Alabama; sister,
Rosa Lee Barner of Buffalo, New York; six children, Fred Lewis, Robert
Dancy, Alfred Farries, Cynthia Lorena, Jocelyn Denise and Fran; 15 grandchildren;
five great-grandchildren; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. Arrangements
were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment was at Detroit Memorial
Park. (Michigan Chronicle, April 9-15, 1997, page D-5).
HINES - Samuel R. Hines
- Services for Samuel Rudolph Hines were held Jan. 31 at Tabernacle Missionary
Baptist Church with the Rev. Lemuel Harrison officiating. Mr. Hines died
Jan. 31 at the age of 71. Mr. Hines was born on Dec. 10, 1926, in Tuscaloosa,
Alabama. He attended the Martin Luther Institute and completed two
years at Stillman College. After moving to Detroit in 1953 he became a
member of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. In 1944 Mr. Hines was
married to Emma Blue. He was an active bowler and a Mason. He was employed
by the Central Industrial Foundry, Ford Motor Company and the Detroit
Board of Education, from which he retired in 1986. Mr. Hines is survived
by his sons, Ronald and Albert Hines; six grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren,
sister, Johnnie Mae Hines, and many other relatives. Thompson Funeral
Home handled arrangements. Interment was at Metropolitan Memorial Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, February 5-11, 1997, page D-6)
HODGES - Stanley L. Hodges
- The Rev. Elder Patterson officiated at the Feb. 10 services held at
Swanson Funeral Home for Stanley Lee Hodges. Mr. Hodges died Feb. 4. He
was 37. Born June 7, 1959 in Savannah, Georgia, Mr. Hodges enjoyed
sports, movies, music and playing chess. He was known as an outgoing man
who enjoyed making people laugh. He had enlisted in the Marines but was
unable to complete training due to asthma problems. He later worked
as a brick layer, carpenter and painter. Mr. Hodges is survived by his
daughter, Arrell; parents, Edith Palmer and Joe Hodges; stepmother, Annie
Mae Hodges; stepfather, Arnold Palmer; brothers, Steve and Greg Hodges;
sister, Connie Hodges, and many others. Interment was at Grand Lawn Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, March 12-18, 1977, Page D-4).
HOLCOMB - Robert Holcomb
Jr. - The Rev. Lenzy Petty officiated at the Feb. 15 services held
for Robert Holcomb Jr. at the Thompson Funeral Home Greenfield chapel.
Mr. Holcomb died Feb. 11 at Veterans Administration Hospital. He was 83.
Born November 26, 1913 in Hampton, Georgia, Mr. Holcomb was educated
in Georgia. He moved to Detroit in 1944 after serving in the U.S. Army
during World War II. Known as "Hawk Man," he retired from Peckham
Plumbing and Heating in 1974. Mr. Holcomb is survived by his wife, Annie;
daughter, Maxine Lewis; four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren,
sisters, Ellen, Josephine and Ruby, and many other relatives. Interment
was at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens.
HOPPER - Mary E. Hopper -
The Reverend Robert Royal officiated at the December 17 services held
for Mary Elizabeth Hopper at the Dexter chapel of the Thompson Funeral
Homes. Mrs. Hopper, 54, died December 12. Born April 12, 1942, Mrs. Hopper
was educated in the Detroit Public Schools. An ardent worker who believed
in hard work, good attendance and punctuality, Mrs. Hopper was known as
a happy-go-lucky person who was devoted to her grandchildren. She was
preceded in death by her husband, James Hopper. Mrs. Hopper is survived
by her sons, Mario, Michael and Marlon; nine grand-children; sisters ,
Patricia and Davitta; brother, Robert Kemp, and many other relatives.
Interment was at Grand Lawn Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle, December 31
- January 7, 1997, page 6-D).
HOUGH - Somnuik Hough
- Services for Somnuik Hough were held Thursday, March 6, in the Dexter
Chapel of Thompson Funeral Home, with Bishop Phillip Pulliam officiating.
She died February 27. Mrs. Hough was born in Bankgon, Thailand, on August
17, 1947. She moved to the United States in the '70s. Left behind to cherish
her memory are a daughter, Rosie Mary; a son, Edward; two sisters, Sandy
and Bea and other relatives. Interment was at Grandlawn Cemetery. (Michigan
Chronicle, March 19-25, 1997, page D-5).
HUDSON - Dr. Joseph T.
Hudson - Services were held at Park United Presbyterian Church March
27 for Dr. Joseph Thomas Hudson, with Rev. Robert Wolfe Jr. officiating.
Dr. Hudson, 78, died March 24. Born February 19, 1919 in Annemanie,
Alabama, Dr. Hudson attended Annemanie Schools, and graduated from
AL & I High School in 1937. He subsequently graduated from Alabama
A&M University in 1941. Dr. Hudson taught in Birmingham, Alabama and
Lansing. He was also a Master Sergeant in the South Pacific during World
War II. After the war, he continued his education at Iowa State University
and Michigan State, where he earned a master's degree, then a doctorate
in education. Dr. Hudson subsequently became the first Black superintendent
of schools in Michigan, working in the Royal Oak Township schools. He
also worked in Adult Education for the Michigan State Dept. of Education
until he retired in 1978 due to illness. He served four years as president
of the National Alabama A&M Alumni Association, and received the Outstanding
Alumni Award in 1964. He is survived by his wife, Nellie; sons, Frederick
and Charles; foster daughter, Margaret Harris; sisters, Iola Lavender,
and Hattie Fisher; brothers, Famous, Cornwallis and Taft; and many others.
Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment was at Canaan
Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Annemanie. (Michigan Chronicle, May 14-20,
1997, pg. D-5).
HUDSON - Oza A. Hudson -
Brother Howard Parish officiated at the December 16 services held for
Oza Anna Hudson at the Greenfield chapel of Thompson Funeral Home. Mrs.
Hudson, 86, died December 11. Born Oza Wilson on February 22, 1910,
in Chetopa, Kansas, Mrs. Hudson was educated in the Kansas Public
School system. After graduating from Parson Junior College she was employed
as a secretary in Parson, Kansas. After relocating to Detroit in 1935,
Mrs. Hudson attended the Lewis Business College. She was lager self-employed
as the first Black stenographer in Detroit. Preceded in death by husbands
Otis Jolly and John Hudson, Mrs. Hudson enjoyed walking
and was known as a woman full of life and energy. She is survived by her
brothers, Albert and Clarence; sisters, Clara Robinson and Zora
Liggens; step-children, Alicia Lumpkin, Charles Hudson and
Brownice Hudson, and many others. (Michigan Chronicle, December 24 - 31,
1996, page 6-D).
HUFFMAN - Jerome Moses Huffman
- Services for Jerome Moses Huffman were held Oct. 3 at Renaissance Baptist
Church. Pastor Robert F. Holloman Jr. and the Rev. Robert Page officiated.
Deacon Huffman died Sept. 26 in his home. He was 76. Born June 23, 1920
in Bessemer, Alabama, he attended the public schools in Fairmont,
West Virginia, and Texas College in Tyler, Texas. After serving
with the U.S. Army and attaining the rank of first sergeant, he joined
his wife, Frances, in Detroit. Mr. Huffman joined Second Baptist Church
and served with the Usher Board and in many other capacities. In 1982,
he became a charter member of Renaissance Church and was ordained a deacon
in 1984. He served as deacons' chairman and organized and was president
of the Faith Workers and Golden Agers. He was also first vice president
of the Michigan Progressive Baptist Convention Laymen's Division. A 33rd
degree Mason, he served in a number of top positions with the fraternal
order through the years. He was employed for 35 years at the VA Medical
Center in Dearborn, from which he retired in 1983. He was a member of
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and life member of the James Europe
Post - 3080, VFW, USA. Deacon Huffman is survived by his wife, Frances;
daughters, Brenda Huffman and Joni Jefferson; grandsons, Jay Huffman
and Nicholas Jefferson; sister, Daisy Smith, and many others. (Michigan
Chronicle, January 8-14, 1997, page 4-D).
HUMPHREY - Morris L. Humphrey
- Services for Morris L. Humphrey were held March 1 at the Thompson
Funeral Home Greenfield chapel. Mr. Humphrey, 64, died Feb. 23. Born Nov.
9, 1932 in New Orleans, Mr. Humphrey enlisted in the U.S. Army
after completing high school. After his honorable discharge he moved to
Detroit where he was employed by General Motors Pontiac Division. After
working his way up through the ranks he reached the position of quality
control inspector. He retired in 1982 after 30 years of service. Mr. Humphrey
is survived by his wife, Dorothy; children, Gary Ingram, Rosalinda Humphrey
and Morris Humphrey Jr.; stepdaughters, Doris Wade and Sheila Brody; grandchildren,
Brandon, Shannon, Cordero and Courtney; sister, Beverly Averett, and many
others. Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park. (Michigan Chronicle, March
12-18, 1977, Page D-4).
HUNT - Louise Hunt - The
Rev. Jerome Campbell officiated at the Feb. 13 services held for Louise
Hunt at the Thompson Funeral Home Greenfield chapel. Mrs. Hunt died Feb.
7. She was 64. Born Louise Ali on July 27, 1931, in Detroit, Mrs.
Hunt was educated in the Detroit Public Schools system. For many years
she worked for the Pepsi Cola Company. Described as a woman of great strength
and courage, Mrs. Hunt was married to Willie Woods with whom she
had four children. She later married Leroy Hunt. The couple enjoyed
traveling as members of the 485th Port Platoon Travel Club. They also
enjoyed summering at their home in Shrewbury, Canada. Mrs. Hunt is survived
by her daughters, Gwen Brazell, Madelyn Rhodes, Sharon Henderson and Jeanie
Mills; 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, sisters, Joann Mitchell
and Roissa Solomon, and many others. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, February 19-25, 1996 Page D-7).
HUNTER - Mary W. Hunter
- Services for Mary W. Hunter were held Monday, Jan. 27 at New Light Baptist
Church with the Rev. Benjamin Stanley Baker officiating. Mrs. Hunter died
Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the age of 93. A native of Rienzi, Mississippi,
she was born March 12, 1902. In 1918, she married the late Rev. Robert
Williams and they had three children, two of which preceded her in death.
She later married the late Leo Hunter. Mrs. Hunter moved to Detroit from
St. Louis, Missouri after retiring from Missouri Pacific Railroad. She
joined New Light Baptist in 1969 and was an active member until her health
failed, serving with the Missionary and Improvement ministries, and the
Sunday School. She is survived by a daughter, Ruth Hall; 12 grandchildren,
32 great-grandchildren, 22 great-great-grandchildren, a sister and many
other relatives. Burial was at United Memorial Gardens. (Michigan Chronicle,
February 5-11, 1997, page D-6)
INGRAM - Tracey M. Ingram
- Services for Tracey Michelle Ingram were held Wednesday, April 2, at
the Thompson Funeral Home. Rev. Charles Terrell officiated. Mrs. Ingram,
24, died March 26. Mrs. Ingram was born November 29, 1972 in Detroit and
graduated from Northern High School. She married Mr. Leslie Ingram on
July 23, 1993. Mrs. Ingram was described as full of life and energy. She
hoped to become a model. She is survived by her husband, Leslie Ingram;
parents, Carolyn and Luther Chaney; brothers, Timothy and Sheron; grandfather,
William Jackson; four sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law; three nieces;
three nephews; aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of other relatives. Interment
was at Detroit Memorial Park West. Thompson Funeral Home handled arrangements.
(Michigan Chronicle, April 9-15, 1997, page D-6).
JACKSON - Alfred Jackson
- Services were held at the Greenfield Chapel of Thompson Funeral Home,
April 4, for Alfred D. Jackson, with Bishop Phillip Pulliam officiating.
Mr. Jackson, 52, died March 30. Mr. Jackson, known as "Smokey"
to his friends, was born February 23, 1945, in Glenn Allan, Mississippi,
and was educated in the Detroit Public School System. He was a very humble
and giving person who always put others before himself. Mr. Jackson is
survived by his mother, Lenora Jackson; grandmother, Ethel Brown; brothers,
Willie, Henry and Richard; sisters, Ester and Eunice; a special friend,
Ophelia Floyd; and nieces, nephews and many others. Interment was at Detroit
Memorial Park West in Redford. Thompson Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
(Michigan Chronicle, April 16-22, 1997, pg. D-4).
JACKSON - Willie J. Jackson
Sr. - Services for Willie Jackson were held March 11 at Unity Temple
of the Apostolic Faith church with Bishop Gasten Staten officiating. Mr.
Jackson was 88. He died on March 7. Born September 28, 1908 in Talbot,
Georgia, Mr. Jackson was employed at Ford Motor Company for 40 years
before retiring. Mr. Jackson is survived by seven daughters, Mildred Cobb,
Thelma Ward, Julia Robinson, Ruth Cotten, Esther Cotton, Elizabeth Murphy,
Martha Jackson and a host of other relatives. Arrangements were handled
by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment was at Evergreen Gardens. (Michigan
Chronicle, April 16-22, 1997, pg. D-4).
JOHNSON - Jeffrey K. Johnson
- Family and friends attended services for Jeffrey Kent Johnson on Jan.
30 in the Greenfield chapel of Thompson Funeral Homes. Mr. Johnson, 22,
died Jan. 24. Brother Eddie Miller officiated at the services. Mr. Johnson
graduated from Cooley High School in 1994. Prior to that, he attended
Murphy Middle School and Burns Elementary School. He developed an interest
in music at an early age and was musically active for most of is life.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his daughter, Jemecca; parents, Joe and Marian
Johnson; sister, Joanna; brothers, Jason, Mark, Christopher and Joe Jr.,
and many other relatives. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery. (Michigan
Chronicle, February 5-11, 1997, page D-6)
JOHNSON - Jessie Johnson
- Services for Jessie B. Johnson were held at New Greater Oregon St. John
Baptist Church, February 22, with Rev. Robert Sykes officiating. Mrs.
Johnson died February 18 at age 83. Born November 7, 1913 in Gonzales,
Texas, Mrs. Johnson attended Middle Fork Elementary School and Edward
High School in Texas. She was a member of the Metropolitan District Baptist
Ministers Wives Alliance, for which she received a 25-year service award,
and a member of the interdenominational Ministers Wives. She was also
a Sunday School teacher at New Greater Oregon St. John. In 1981, she received
a special tribute from the Michigan House of Representatives for the spiritual
support she gave her husband, the late Rev. B. T. Johnson. Mrs. Johnson
is survived by her sister, Vietta Kelly; cousin, A. Collins; godson, Martin
C. Gordon Jr.; and many others. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery. Arrangements
were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle, March 26 -
April 1, 1997, pg. D-4).
JOHNSON - Martha Johnson
- Services were held February 22 at Bethel Baptist Church, East, for Martha
L. Johnson. Rev. James W. Stepherson officiated. Ms. Johnson, 75, died
February 18. Born July 31, 1921 in Coatopa, Alabama. Ms. Johnson
joined Bethel Baptist church in 1992. She served as an usher and sang
in the choir at other churches she visited. She is survived by her grandson,
Leon Garner; great-grandchildren, Nina roger and Bryant Lee McCally; sister,
Mary Clark; brothers, Fred Russell and Otis Russell; and many others.
Interment was at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens in Livonia. Arrangements were
handled by Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle, March 26 - April
1, 1997, pg. D-4).
JOHNSON - Vivian A. Johnson
- Services for Vivian Ann (Sampson) Johnson were held January 25 at Swanson
Funeral Home. Mrs. Johnson was 58 years old. Born February 8, 1939, Mrs.
Johnson was educated in the Detroit schools system and graduated from
Miller High School. She also attended Henry Ford College to pursue a career
as a master chef. Mrs. Johnson is survived by her husband, Auss Johnson
Jr.; a sister, Katherine Dukes; a half-sister, Samretta; her father-in-law,
Auss Johnson Sr.; four daughters, Delores, Denise, Kassandra and Debra;
five sons, Eddie, Troy, Todd, Tony and Tony II; and a host of other family
members. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment
was at Elmwood Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle, March 26 - April 1, 1997,
pg. D-4).
JOHNSON - Willie B. Johnson
- Services for Willie B. Johnson were held Tuesday, December 17 at 12th
Street Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Donald Ray Hudson officiating.
Mr. Johnson died December 12 at the age of 88. Born September 2, 1908
in Fordyce, Arkansas, he married the late Imogene Neelon
in 1931. They moved to Detroit and joined the congregation at 12th Street
Church, where he attended until his recent admission to Cranbridge Nursing
Home. Mr. Johnson retired from Chrysler Corp. after a 30 year employment.
His survivors include six children, Alfred, James and Phyllis Johnson,
Fay Henry, Charles Smith and Berry Henderson; eight grand-children, three
great-grandchildren, and many other relatives. Burial was at Woodlawn
Cemetery. Arrangements were by the Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle,
January 22-28, 1997, page 4-D)
JOHNSTON - Robert Johnston
- Services for Robert Johnston were held at Oak Grove AME Church, March
27, with Rev. Dr. Gregory G.M. Ingram officiating. Mr. Johnston, 72, died
March 22 at Sinai Hospital. Born April 14, 1924 in Cabarrus County,
North Carolina, Mr. Johnston was a veteran who fought in Normandy,
Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe. He received the Eamet Campaign
medal with four bronze service stars and the victory medal. He was discharged
in 1945. Mr. Johnston moved to Detroit where he was employed by the Dept.
of Corrections for the City of Detroit and the State. He retired after
30 years of service. He became a member of Oak Grove AME Church in 1967,
where he was a devoted member of New Dimensions and Mass Choirs. Mr. Johnston
is survived by his wife, Celia Bessie Johnston; children, Ronald D. Johnston,
Jacqueline M. Johnston, Carolyn Jean Johnston and Roosevelt Lacey; grandchildren,
Jeremy Johnston, Peyton Johnston, Ronald D. Johnston II, Leslie Lacey
and Sherrie Lacey; brother, Rev. Chester Johnston; sister, Velia Johnston
Stafford; and many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral
Home. Interment was at Christian Memorial Culture center in Rochester
Hills. (Michigan Chronicle, May 14-20, 1997, pg. D-5).
JONES - Bessie M. Jones
- Services for Bessie Mae Jones were held January 29 at Christland Baptist
Church. Rev. C. L. Branch officiated. Mrs. Jones, 78, died January 24.
Mrs. Jones was born Bessie Mae Dancy on July 24, 1918 in Tuscaloosa,
Alabama. She was a nurse at Bon Secours Hospital for 11 years before
her retirement in 1977. Mrs. Jones is survived by her husband, Roosevelt
Jones; sister, Georgia Ivy; children, Ray Jones, Eddie Jones and Estelle
Martin; grandchildren, Alfic Jones and Rosetta Jones; and a host of grandchildren,
great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home Inc. (Michigan Chronicle,
March 26 - April 1, 1997, pg. D-4).
JONES - Carrie M. Jones
- Last rites for Carrie Mae Jones were held Saturday, March 15 in the
Thompson Funeral Home Greenfield chapel. Officiating was the Rev. Lennell
Caldwell. Mrs. Jones died March 8 at the age of 68. Born May 27, 1928
in Manning, South Carolina, she attended high school in Richmond,
Virginia where she excelled on the girls basketball team at Maggie
Walker. After moving to Detroit and marrying William Jones, her lifelong
dream was realized when she earned her high school diploma in the Highland
Park Adult Education Program. Her most recent church membership was at
Messiah Baptist where she served with the Pastor's Service Guild. Mrs.
Jones is survived by a daughter, Constance; stepson, Eddie Lee; grandchildren,
Eric, Stephen, Delvaughn, Jade, Edward and Ciera; three great-grandchildren,
Tatiana, Krista and Kristian, and other relatives. Burial was at Woodlawn
Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle, March 26 - April 1, 1997, pg. D-7).
JONES - Charlene Jones
- Pastor James M. Johnson officiated at the Jan. 16 services held for
Charlene Jones at Bailey Temple Church of God in Christ. Mrs. Jones, 99
died Jan. 11. Born Charlene Fountain on Jan. 16, 1897 in Stoical,
Mississippi, she married the late Harrison Jones in 1915. After
living in Arkansas and Memphis, Mrs. Jones moved to Detroit in 1973 where
she joined Bailey Temple COGIC. As a member of Bailey she served on the
Mother's Board and was active in the Sunday School, the YPWW and the Prayer
and Bible Band. She had received several citations and awards for being
the oldest member of the church. Mrs. Jones is survived by her daughter,
Theresa Banker; sons, Clarence and Samuel Jones; grandchildren, Anthony,
Peter, Clarence and Ananias; seven great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren,
and many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Homes. Interment
was at Lincoln Memorial Park. (Michigan Chronicle, February 12-18, 1997,
page D-5).
JONES - Cora Lee Jones
- Services for Cora Lee Jones were held April 9 at United Temple Church
of God in Christ. Mrs. Jones, 75, died April 14. Born January 27, 1922
in Franklin, Georgia, Mrs. Jones was active in the church as a
young woman. At the time of her death, she was a member of the Mother's
Board and supportive member of United Temple Church of God in Christ.
She and her husband, Olen, moved to Detroit after their marriage in 1942.
Mrs. Jones is survived by her children, Louis Miller, Florene Luke, Felton
Jones, Shirley Jeffrey, Earlene Jones, Elnora Spears and Normal Smith;
grandchildren, Christine Williams, Damon Phillips, Clifford Spears, Deanna
Luke, Adam Spears, Lawrence Dumas and Christopher Dumas; siblings, Norman,
Mary, Ora, Catherine, Carrie, Ann Lois, Esther, Thelma, Melvin, Charlie
John, Elma and Glenn. Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park East. Arrangement
were handled by Thompson Funeral Home. (Michigan Chronicle, April 30 -
May 3, 1997, page D-6)
JONES - James W. Jones
- Zion Hope Baptist Church was the location for funeral services for James
Williams Jones on Saturday, February 1. Mr. Jones, 66, died on January
26. The Rev. Charles E. Marshall officiated. Mr. Jones was born in Spartanburg,
South Carolina, to William and Odessa Jones. He was the eldest of
eight children. He moved to Detroit in 1947 and joined the Army in 1951.
From his marriage to Janice Ware came eight children. He joined Zion Hope
Baptist Church in 1976. It was at Zion Hope that he met and married his
second wife, Maxine Hart. Mr. Jones retired from the Kelsey-Hayes Automotive
Group after 30 years of employment as a machine operator. Left behind
to cherish his memory are his wife, Maxine; eight children, Jonnie, Janell,
Denise, Dennis, Kimberly, Kevin, Margaret and Gerald; five brothers, one
sister, eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and other relatives.
Interment was at Elmwood Cemetery. Swanson Funeral Homes Inc. handled
arrangements. (Michigan Chronicle, March 19-25, 1997, page D-5).
JONES - John L. Jones
- Services for John L. Jones were held at Swanson Funeral Home, March
8 whit Rev. Risarg Huff officiating. Mr. Jones died February 28 at the
age of 71. Born February 27, 1926 in Macon County, Georgia,
Mr. Jones moved to Detroit with his wife, Josie, in 1947. He worked for
33 years at Chrysler Corporation's Dodge Main Plant until his retirement
in 1980. He is survived by his sons, Zachary, Johnnie, Samuel and David;
eleven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; sisters, Lois Wilder,
Ruby Miller, and Laura English; brothers, Rudolph Jones and Sam Jones;
and many others. Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park East. (Michigan
Chronicle, April 9-15, 1997, page D-6).
JONES - Virginia Jones
- The Reverend Craig Hancock officiated at the November 30 services held
for Virginia Jones at the Zion Chapel Church of Christ. Mrs. Jones died
November 25 at Henry Ford Hospital. She was 68. Born October 25, 1928
in Rankin County, Mississippi, Mrs. Jones was educated in the public
schools of Rankin County and Detroit. She married the late James Jones
Sr. in 1944. The family relocated to Detroit in 1948. A devoted housewife
and mother, Mrs. Jones worked as a nursing assistant at Friendship Manor
Nursing Home for several years. A devoted member of Zion Chapel Church,
she served with Usher Board No. 1 and the CWW. Mrs. Jones is survived
by her children, Mary, James Jr., Asbury, Estell, Delores, Willie, Nathaniel
and Doris Walls, stepdaughter, Lillie McGree; sisters, Ezella Kelly
and Vynolia Holmes; foster sister, Dorothy Barron; 26
grandchildren, 16 great-great-grandchildren, and many others. Arrangements
were handled by Thompson Funeral Home. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, December 31 - January 7, 1997, page 6-D).
JONES - William H. T.
Jones - Father Norman Thomas officiated at the Feb. 15 services held
for William Howard Taft Jones Jr. at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Mr.
Jones died Feb. 6. He was 64. Born March 3, 1932 in Birmingham, Alabama,
Mr. Jones graduated from A. H. Parker High School. He later attended Alabama
A&M University before moving to Detroit in 1952. After joining St.
Cecilia Catholic Church in 1969, Mr. Jones, who was better known as Bill,
became active in the parish. He served as parish council president, joined
the usher board and served as recording secretary. He also assisted in
the Cub Scouts, becoming a scout master. A member of the K of C since
1973, he served as deputy grand knight and later financial secretary.
He eventually earned the K of C's highest honor, the silver medal for
Outstanding Services to the Knights of Peter Claver. He also volunteered
in various other community organizations. Retiring in 1994 from his career
as a construction safety inspector for the state of Michigan, Mr. Jones
attended the 1995 Million Man March in Washington, D.C. Mr. Jones is survived
by his wife of 40 years, Betty Jean Jones; sons, Kenneth and Harry; daughter,
Pamela; daughter-in-law, Vera; three grandchildren, sisters, Annie Benifield,
Lillie Jones and Dorothy Hardy; brother, Lorenzo, and many other relatives.
Arrangements were handled by the James H. Cole Home for Funerals. Interment
was at Woodlawn Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle, February 19-25, 1996 Page
D-6).
KENDRICK - Lucille Kendrick
- Services for Lucille Kendrick, 82, were held Jan. 4 at Vinewood Church
of Christ with Brother Kate Dosoo officiating. Mrs. Kendrick died Dec.
28 in her home. Born in Washington County, Georgia on Feb. 19,
1914, Mrs. Kendrick later moved with her family to Dublin, Georgia
and then to Winter Garden, Florida. She was lovingly known
as "Snubbie" to her family and friends. Married to James Kendrick
in 1948, the couple later moved to Syracuse, New York. In 1952
they relocated to Detroit. After moving to Detroit she became a domestic,
working in private homes. In addition to fishing and picnicking, Mrs.
Kendrick enjoyed doing the hair of family members and friends before her
poor health forced her to stop. Mrs. Kendrick is survived by her sisters
Nina Lane, Ada Lee Wade, and Juanita Temple Johnson; brother, Julian Temple,
and many other relatives. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral
Home. Interment was at Metropolitan Memorial Cemetery. (Michigan Chronicle,
February 19-25, 1996 Page D-6).
KNOTT - Orlandars Knott
- The Rev. Lovell Knott officiated at the Jan. 24 services held for Orlandars
Knott at the Thompson Funeral Home Greenfield chapel. Mr. Knott, 59, died
Jan. 16. Born July 27, 1937 in Bessemer, Alabama, Mr. Knott was
raised in Tishabee, Alabama by his grandparents. He was educated
in the Wood Public School there. After moving to Detroit in the 50s, he
joined Leland Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Knott is survived by his
wife, Mattie Mae; daughters, Doris Mitchell, Joan, Kathy and Mary Knott;
eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, mother, Mary Johnson; father,
Nathaniel Johnson; brother, James Lee; sister, Barbara Johnson, and many
others. Interment was at Detroit Memorial Park-East. (Michigan Chronicle,
February 5-11, 1997, page D-6)
KNOX - Johnnie Mae Knox
- The Rev. James L. Morman officiated at services held for Johnnie Mae
Knox on Feb. 1 at Christian Tabernacle Baptist Church. Mrs. Knox died
Jan. 24. She was 70. Mrs. Knox was educated in the Detroit Public Schools,
maintaining a high grade point average throughout. After graduation from
Northeastern High School she married James Knox. Mrs. Knox was a strong
believer in the pursuit of excellence in all areas of life, for herself
as well as her family. She is survived by her daughters, Chere and LaVoina;
son, James; several grandchildren and many other relatives. Arrangements
were handled by Thompson Funeral Homes. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, February 5-11, 1997, page D-6)
LEE - Paul Lee Jr.
- Pastor Bernard Smith officiated at the February 7 funeral services for
Paul Lee Jr. who died at the age of 74. Mr. Lee was born on October 31,
1923 in Edwards, Mississippi, the seventh son of Johnny Lee and
Malisie Hardison. He joined the Army in 1943 and ultimately became a decorated
World War II veteran. After his years with the service ended, Mr. Lee
was hired by the Chrysler Corp. as an arc welder. That same year (1946)
he married Amanda Flowers. They had a son, Roy and a daughter, Monica.
Also in 1946, Mr. Lee became a member of Warren Avenue Missionary Baptist
Church. Cherishing the memory of Paul Lee Jr. are his daughter Monica,
two granddaughters, two sisters and other relatives. Swanson Funeral Homes
Inc. handled arrangements. Interment was at Lincoln Memorial Park Cemetery.
(Michigan Chronicle, March 19-25, 1997, page D-5).
LEE - Thernell Lee - The
Reverend Robert F. Holloman officiated at the December 11 services held
for Thernell Lee at the Thompson Funeral Home Greenfield chapel. Mr. Lee
died December 3 after a long illness. He was 64. Born May 24, 1932, in
Augusta, Georgia, Mr. Lee was a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
A skilled carpenter, he relocated to Detroit in 1958. In 1964, Mr. Lee
began employment with the Chrysler Corporation. He was employed there
as a glass cutter until poor health forced his retirement. Mr. Lee is
survived by his wife, June; children, Timothy and Lynice; grandchildren,
Kenyetta, Vincent Jr., Jessica and Denesha; brother, George Green;
step-brother, Harold Scrandrick; sisters, Sarah Heard, Judith
Moten and Delores Thornton, and many others. Interment was
at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens. (Michigan Chronicle, December 31 - January
7, 1997, page 7-D).
LEONARD - Aubrey C. Leonard
- Services were held at Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, March 29 for Aubrey
C. Leonard, with Rev. Asriel G. McLain officiating. Ms. Leonard, 51, died
March 21. Born February 2, 1946 in Livingston, Alabama, Ms. Leonard
was educated in Jefferson County schools. She moved to Detroit in 1965,
and was employed as an Ameritech Supervisor in Sterling Heights. She retired
in 1994. She is survived by her mother, Canary Leonard; daughter, Regina
Samone Leonard; grandson, DeMarco Rondell Leonard; brothers, Robert, Sidney
and Ed Leonard Jr.; sisters, Allen Jean Miller and Lois Whitfield; stepsisters,
Barbara An Craig and Cassie Mae Lindsey; stepbrother, George Craig; and
many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. Interment
was at Detroit Memorial Park West in Redford. (Michigan Chronicle, May
14-20, 1997, pg. D-5).
LILLY - Cortely Lilly
- Services for Cortely Lilly were held April 9 at the Bethel Church of
the Apostolic Faith. Elder Phillip Cole officiated. Mr. Lilly, 86, died
April 3. Mr. Lilly was born March 26, 1911 in Boston, Georgia.
He married in 1944 and moved to Detroit in 1953. He worked at the Cavanaugh
Construction Company and retired from it on March 28, 1973. Mr. Lilly
is survived by his wife, Pearlie Mae Lilly; two children, Roosevelt and
Shelly; four sisters, Annie Kate Reese and Lula Pierce of Florida, Wessie
Thomas and Norris Booker; daughter-in-law, Camilla; brother-in-law, Son
Thomas; seven grandchildren, Roosevelt Jr., Theodora, Pamela, Roderick,
Marcus, DeShawn and Eboni; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces,
nephews and cousins. Interment was at Mt. Hope Memorial Gardens. Arrangements
were handled by Swanson Funeral Home Inc. (Michigan Chronicle, May 14-20,
1997, pg. D-6).
LINDSAY - Elizabeth Wynn-Lindsay
- Services for Elizabeth Wynn-Lindsay were held at St. James Missionary
Baptist Church, March 5, with the Rev. James A. Jennings officiating.
Mrs. Wynn-Lindsay died March 8 at the age of 71. Born September 29, 1925
in Starksville, Mississippi, Mrs. Wynn-Lindsay was educated in
Starksville. In 1944, she moved to Detroit with her family and was active
in Tabernacle Baptist Church. She also enjoyed preparing food to share
with family and friends. Mrs. Wynn-Lindsay is survived by her husband,
George Lindsay; daughter, Betty; sons, Willie Wynn Jr., Warren, Reginald,
Thomas and Bernard Wynn; sixteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren;
and many others. Arrangements were handled by Swanson Funeral Home. (Michigan
Chronicle, April 16-22, 1997, pg. D-4).
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