Rosalind Lee Acoff-Knowles
(June 24,
1967 - June 11, 2005)
Mrs.
Rosalind Lee Acoff-Knowles was born on June 24, 1967 in Cleveland, Ohio
to the late Reverend John R. and Claudia L. Acoff. She was
the youngest daughter born to the Acoff family that consisted of 18
children. Rosalind
confessed Christ at an early age and was a member of The St. Peters
Missionary Baptist Church. She was educated in the Cleveland
Public School System where she graduated in 1986 from Lincoln West High
School. She went
on to establish her career and build a future not only for herself, but
also for her children, and landed a job in customer service at Royal
Appliance, a.k.a. Dirt Devil, where she remained for 13 years. Rosalind
was married on September 29, 1996 to Mr. Lavon Knowles at a private
ceremony. Rosalind
was a joy to be around and everyone that knew her loved her. Anyone who
she felt she could help, she did so with no hesitation. Rosalind
loved life and enjoyed her life to the fullest.
Rosalind entered into eternal rest on Saturday, June 11, 2005 at The Hospice Care Center of Euclid, Ohio.
She leaves to mourn 5 children, Robert Jr., Antonio, Anthony Jr., Aran,
and Roxanne; 4 stepchildren, LaMaya Howard, Lavon Jr., Anthony, and
Leonte Knowles; 2 granddaughters, Tatiana Acoff and Tanya Howard;
her husband, Mr. Lavon Knowles; mother-in-law, Mrs. Barbara
Alvarado (James), 9 sisters, Mary Frances Cunningham, Emma Acoff, Ola
Acoff, Ida S. Collins, Fannie Acoff, June Cantie (Jessie), Valerie Acoff,
Martha Acoff, and Lynnette Douglas; 5 brothers, Rev. Abraham Acoff
Sr., Joesph Acoff, Johnnie Acoff (Delsina), George
Acoff (deceased), and Samuel Acoff; 2 sisters-in-law, LaTanya and
Vanessa Knowles; 1 special cousin, James Bennett Jr.; and a
host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Regina Ann Adams
(January 5, 1988 - July 27, 2006)
Regina Ann Sasha Monique Adams was born on January 5, 1988 in
Cleveland, Ohio at University Hospital. She attended Collinwood High
School in Cleveland. She accepted Christ at an early age at Confirm Word
Faith Center under Pastor Roberta Vines. She leaves a legacy of love
with her mother, Monica Adams, her father Reginald, her sister Dashah
Adams and Ebony Morreen, her brother Charles Rivers, her grandparents,
and a large host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Regina Ann Sasha Monique Adams was a
superior athlete. She was varsity letterman in basketball, volleyball,
track, and softball. Regina received numerous college letters of
interest with expectations of an athletic scholarship. Regina also
participated in JROTC. Honor roll was the norm for Regina. She passed
all of her proficiency test on the first try. She excelled in EVERYTHING
she put her hand to. Gina strived to be the best in all she did. SMILES, SMILES, SMILES. That's the first
word that comes to mind when you think of Regina. Gina's bright,
welcoming, seemingly shy smile would win anybody over. She as a leader
and a team player. Gina touched and changed many lives in sickness and
in health. Regina's health is now restored and she is with the Lord, for
to be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord. Amen.
Lucille Irene
Aho (March 13, 1928 -
January 14, 2006)
Donald Thomas Allen (November 4, 1942 - May 17, 2004)
Donald Thomas
Allen, also known as "Duck", was born on November 4, 1942 in Cleveland,
Ohio to the late John L.C. and Bernice Allen. Donald was the second of
fifteen siblings. Donald was married at a young age to Linda Mosley and
to this union was born one child, Dionne. Donald was
educated in the Cleveland Public School System. He was certified in the
Security field and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. He was also a
self-employed contractor as well as a food prep at Sol's Deli. Donald
also loved to cook "unique" dishes. Donald was
preceded in death by his father John L.C. Allen, one (1) brother Miguel,
one (2) sister Linda and close friend Joe Hill. He leaves to
cherish his memory his mother, Bernice Martin; one (1) daughter, Dionne
Allen; four (4) grandchildren, Curtis, Whitney, DeAndre and Kyla;
seven (7) brothers, Kenneth (Erika), Gerald (Cleo), Clifford (Alice),
Marvin, Clinton, Jr. (Mary), Maurice and Clarence; six (6) sisters,
Gloria (Bobby), Olivia, Joycelen (Edward), Donna (George), LaVerne
(Pierre), and Mattie; childhood friends Earl Evans and Ernest Bates and
a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, friends, and other relatives
including the late Clinton Martin, Sr. and Mildred Allen.
Emma
Dollthuya Allen
(June 10, 1916 -
January 10, 2006)
Emma Dollthuya Allen was born on June 10, 1916 in Rossville, Tennessee to the
union of Henderson and Eva (nee Neal) Bailey. Emma received her
education while in Tennessee and accepted Christ into her life at an
early age. At the age of sixteen, she met and married Percy Allen,
Sr. To their union, five children were born - Priscilla, Percy, Gloria, Steve and
Jim. In 1944, in
search of a better way of life, the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio
where Emma became a founding member of the Little
Rock Baptist Church. In addition to being an active member of the
church, Emma was also very involved as a homemaker as well as with her
children's school activities through the PTA.
Emma
was a feisty and outgoing woman who "put it to you straight". In later
years, she assumed as role as the family matriarch and historian with
honor and grace. She will truly be missed.
On January 10, 2006 she
departed this life. She is preceded in death by her parents, by her
husband of more than fifty years and by her son, Steve Foster Allen.
She
leaves to mourn and to cherish her memory her children, Priscilla
Hairston and Percy Eugene Allen, both of Cleveland, Ohio, Gloria J.
Larkin of Long Beach, California and Jim Wesley (Robin) Allen, of
Cleveland Heights, Ohio; two brothers, Henderson Bailey and Jerry
Crutchfield; eighteen grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren;
Crutchfield, Crawford and Webb family members and a host of other loving
relatives and friends.
Leonard D. Allen (October 6,
1960 - July 17, 2005)
Mr.
Leonard D. Allen was born in Cleveland, Ohio on October 6, 1960 to
Ms. Mallie D. Allen and Mr. Clarence Cummings, both of whom preceded him
in death.
Leonard attended and graduated from
East High School in 1978 where he was the President of the Photography
Staff for the school's yearbook. After graduation, Leonard was
employed as an engineer by Mt. Sinai Hospital where he worked for 25
years. After the closure of Mt. Sinai, Leonard worked for the
United States Postal Service and the Plain Dealer. In addition to
photography, Leonard loved to read and to entertain his family and
friends at his home that he affectionately called "Spuddy's Place."
He was very much a people person and enjoyed life. He had great
wisdom and touched many lives. Leonard was the type that made
himself available to anyone that needed help. He was a very strong
family man and loved his family. Leonard truly believed in family
values. After a brief illness Leonard left
this life on Sunday, July 17, 2005 at the Renaissance Hospice House. Leonard leaves to cherish his many
wonderful memories his wife of nine years, Olivia; brother, Herbert
(Jacqueline); sisters Marcell (Michael) and Victoria (Dowie);
half-sister Toni Wright, all of Cleveland; Mother-in-law, Inez Reaze;
brother-in-law, Warnell Reaze; nieces and nephews, Eboni, Stephan,
Shannan, Preston, Christopher, Raymond, Bernard, Shanutica, Amyracel and
Kendria; aunts, Amelia Flanagan, Geraldine Oliver, Shirley Mae Wyatt,
and uncle, James Bell, Jr., all of Birmingham, Alabama, as well as a
host of other relatives and friends.
Marlon J. Allen
(July 1, 1978 - March 9, 2007)
Marlon Jermaine Allen was born July 1, 1978 in Cleveland,
Oh. He was the eldest of three children and only son of Rhonda and
Michael Medley. Marlon committed his life to Christ at age 12 and
was baptized at Pentecostal Church of Christ by Bishop J.D. Ellis,
III. No matter who you are, or what direction in life you take, all
roads lead back to Christ.
Marion attended
South High School where he excelled in mathematics and was a member
of the South High Flyers Football Team. He scored at the top of his
class academically, completed all 4 parts of the required
proficiency exam in the 9th grade, but never wanted his friends to
know, what was already self-evident, how intelligent he was.
He was raised in a home where it was taught that the quality
and longevity of life would be based upon the choices you make. Through trials and tribulations, he came to understand that
his choices would directly affect the future of his sons. In his
efforts to turn his life in a new direction, he completed the GED
pretest course and attained the highest score. Since he had been
out of school for a length of time, his score was a surprise to him
but not to his mother. Marlon’s determination allowed him to excel
at pretty much anything he put his mind to. “No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the
one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to one and despise
the other. You can not serve God and money.” Luke 16:13 His passion was his artistic creativity. Art is here he
found peace and serenity. However, his greatest joy in life was his
children and nieces. He loved to be in the company of his sons, and
his constant focus was the quality of their future. Being an uncle
meant the world to him. Marlon went home to be with the Lord on March 9, 2007. He
will be sincerely missed by his children, Alontay and Martez; their
mothers, Aisha Sparks and Tameka Caldwell; his parents, Rhonda
Allen and Michael Medley; sisters, Amber & Mea Allen; aunts, Linda
Copland-Fields and Nichole Allen-Banks; uncles, Rory C. Allen and
Darryl Medley, and a host of relatives and friends.
Rita R. Allen
(January 30, 1960 - September 23, 2003)
Ms. Rita R. Allen departed this life on
Tuesday, September 23, 2003. Rita was born on January 30, 1960 in
Cleveland, Ohio to the union of Milton and Josephone Brown. Rita
confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and joined the Church of
Christ in Fort Payne, Alabama. She leaves to mourn her passing, her
parents, Milton and Josephine Brown; two devoted sons, Fertino
(Darnell) and Guy (Deshawn); one grandson, DeVaun; sisters, Sandra
(Douglas) Shy, Diane (David) Thompson, Kathy Allen, Sheryl (Patrick)
McRae and Kimberly Allen; brothers, Jerome Brown, Harold Brown, Carl
Brown and David Allen, Jr. Rita also leaves to cherish her memory a
host of nieces, nephews and numerous other loving relatives and
friends. Rita was preceded in death by her sister, Angela. Rita
attended and graduated from the Cleveland Public School system. She
furthered her education by attending Dyke College where she received
a B.S. degree in Marketing. She worked for D.I.Y. until its closing.
Robert Gordon Allen
(June 11, 1933 - January 17, 2007)
Robert Gordon Allen,
commonly known as “Bob” Allen, died last Wednesday January 17, 2007
at Grand Oaks Nursing Home after a long series of illnesses. Bob was the father of
five children, Beverly - the first born, Gregory (Cassandra), Robert
(Michelle), Yvonne and Connie. Bob was the youngest
of three children born to Kenneth and Henrietta Allen. All of the
children were born in Cleveland, Ohio. His older brother, Ken, Jr.
(Corletta), is the one surviving sibling and a sister, Delores, is
now deceased. Additional surviving family members include eleven
grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, an aunt – Bernice Pruitt,
as well as other loving relatives. Bob enjoyed a long
career as a policeman, the first eight years as a Cuyahoga County
Sheriff’s Deputy and the last twenty-six years as a Cleveland
Policeman. Bob was a bachelor
who loved mechanical things. He always had at least two cars or
motorcycles and, like many policemen, always had an ample collection
of guns of all types. Bob’s mother died
very suddenly on July 6, 1948. His brother Ken remembers trying to
console Bob, telling him not to worry because he would take care of
him. As a grown-up, Bob basically took care of himself, but, in his
time of need, his brother Ken kept his promise and was there when
Bob needed him.
Rasheed A. Ameer, Jr.
(November 5, 1946 - February 23, 2005)
Rasheed A. Ameer, Jr. was born November 5, 1946 in
Cleveland, Ohio to the late Rasheed Merritt Ameer, Sr. and Rose Lee Bell
Ameer. He resided in Cleveland for most of
his life where all of the kids on Kimberly Street
were his friends. He loved horseback riding and riding in his little
red comet. Also at a very young age, Rasheed accepted Christ and was
baptized at St. Marks Presbyterian Church. Having been educated in the
Cleveland Public School System, Rasheed graduated from Glenville High
School in 1967. Later in life, Rasheed became a member of the St. Marks No. 2
Masonic Lodge and loved every moment of it. He was also employed with
General Motors for thirty years before retiring. After his retirement
he spent more time with his extended family traveling in the RV, going
out to dinner, playing chess and the slots, visiting those in the
hospital. He stayed for long periods of time in Lynchburg, Virginia at
Theresa and Brian McCoy’s home. Most of all, he loved going to Greater
Mt. Zion Church in Cleveland and Bolling Hill Baptist Church in
Virginia, where, after church, he liked to walk downtown to get himself
a “honeybun” donut. On Wednesday night, February 23, 2005,
Rasheed closed his eyes for the last time. He is preceded in death by
his parents; grandparents, Thaddeus Bell, Robert “Son” Clark, Thelma
Bell, and Elizabeth Bell; aunts, Mae T. Bell Chavers and Ethel Merritt;
uncles, Lonnie Charles Clark and Thomas Merritt. Those left to cherish his precious memory include aunts,
Agnes Bell Oliver and Catherine Clark, both of Canton, OH, Lillie C.
Clark, Ena Clark, as well as Ludetha Carter of FL; special cousins,
Saundra Clark-Kamaly of Chicago, IL, Herbert A. “Mickey” Chavers, Jr.,
Bobbie J. Chavers, Samuel E. Chavers, Deborah Clark Parker and Thomas
Parker, all of Canton, Ohio, Cathy R. Clark Llwenlyn Jones and Brian
Jones of Akron, OH, Govoner P. Chavers of San Antonio, TX, Curtis Lynn
Clark of Los Angeles, CA, Fredrick C. Bell of NC, Geraldine Oliver of
Columbus, OH, Robert Carter of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Tom and Sybil
Merritt, Della Merritt of Cleveland, OH and Euphy Lone of PA; his
long-term very dear friend, confidant, and caregiver, of whom he
considered his sister, Jacqueline Wilkerson of Cleveland, OH; his
special friend and companion, Sally Singleton of Cleveland, OH; Theresa
and Brian McCoy, who affectionately referred to Rasheed as Uncle “Rock",
both of Lynchburg, VA; Willie Nance and T. Wilkerson of Cleveland, OH;
extended family, Clara, Darlene, Liz, Little Clara, Theresa, Kevin, Ted,
Fred, Darnell and Sam of Lynchburg, VA; a very dear and true friend,
James “Major” Jones of Cleveland, OH; and a host of other relatives and
friends.
Laymon Anderson Jr.
(June 27, 1927 - July 8, 2006)
Laymon H. Anderson, Jr., succumbed to
the will of Almighty God Saturday, July 8, 2006 in his home
surrounded by his loving family. A family that he clearly loved, and
a family who always exuded love for their Dad, the eldest of 14
children. He was born June 27, 1927 in Vanderbilt,
PA. The son of the late Laymon and Genevieve Lockette Anderson. They
later moved to Uledi, PA which became their permanent home. God presented him with a gift, which was
his 79th birthday on the 27th day of June, last month. Also, July
13, 2006, Audrey Anderson and Laymon Anderson would have celebrated
54 years of marriage. Laymon Anderson was a graduate of the South
Union High School in Uniontown, PA. Upon graduation, he was inducted
into the military. After his tour of duty, he came to Cleveland,
Ohio and began working for the United States government in the
capacity of Letter Carrier. Laymon Anderson faithfully executed his
duties for 35 years and then retired from the Post Office. He proposed to a then young lady namely,
Audrey Phillips, who accepted his proposal with love and smiles.
Laymon received the Baptism of Holy Ghost under the auspices of the
late Bishop John W. Robbins. His present pastor James A. Maye. He was a member of the Pilgrim Church of
Christ Trustee Board. he trusted God fully and answered his call. He
made his decision by signing for the church property to be acquired.
As a result, God blessed him with an abundance of love from his
family, and made many financial opportunities available for him to
educate his children. He instilled values in his children about
life. God first in all things. Then never be afraid to work hard to
achieve your goals in life. Laymon and Audrey's family consist of 7
sons and 2 daughters; Anthony Anderson of Long Beach, California and
wife Meolafa Ofisa, Laymon Anderson III of Cleveland, Ohio who
proceeded his father in death. Larry Anderson of Cleveland, Ohio,
Gary Anderson of Cleveland, Ohio, and wife Beth. Alicia Jefferson of
Hudson, Ohio and husband James Jefferson. Linda Anderson of
Allentown, PA. Stanley Anderson of Medina, Ohio, Steven Anderson of
Cleveland, Ohio. Lester Anderson and wife Susan of east Germany. Laymon was pre-deceased by a brother
James Anderson, Sr., Richard Anderson, Sr.. Sisters, Genevieve
Davis, Betty Fairfax, Yvonne, Lawrence, and Phylis Ramsey. There are
18 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other
relatives. Our family thanks and honors every prayer, every
expression of sympathy, every act of kindness shown to our family,
on behalf of our loved one. We pray God's richest blessings upon
you.
Sarah M. Anderson
(October 10, 1952 - June 8, 2007)
Sarah
M. Anderson came into this world on October 10, 1952 the child of
proud parents, Emma Luster Anderson and Robert Anderson. Sarah was
born in Cleveland, Ohio where she resided until she was called home
to be with the Lord on June 8, 2007. Sarah accepted Christ at an
early age. Sarah attended East Technical High School and
attended Cuyahoga Community College and Case Western Reserve University
for a few years. After a few years of college, Sarah held a variety of
jobs, most notably at Ohio Bell for several years. Known for her
vibrancy, and joy of life, Sarah was the perfect choice to manage an “up
and coming” nightclub in East Cleveland and she did so for several
years. Sarah was also a family woman who
cherished her loved ones. As such, she became the primary caretaker
for several of her family members who’d been stricken with serious
illness during the same time and she cared for most of them until
their death. Sarah loved children and was blessed with a child of
her own, Cassandra Anderson, born on November 16, 1971 and she
forged a loving bond and friendship with her only child for the rest
of her life. Faced with illness most her life, she
faced illness on her own terms with courage and impeccable strength.
Despite many tough battles with diabetic related illness during the
last few years, Sarah faced each battle head on and seemed to emerge
stronger each time. With great dignity, she faced her final battle
and was called home on June 8, 2007. She leaves to celebrate and cherish her
memory, her loving and devoted daughter; Cassandra; her adoring,
devoted granddaughter, Nashaya Anderson; her loving brothers Tom and
Albert; her sister/best friend Debra; Addy Eppinger, God sister;
Florence Anderson, God sister; Esalyn Eppinger, and Crystal
Faulkner, Goddaughters; numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and
friends. She was preceded in death by brothers Robert and Johnny
Anderson.
Lois Harris Andrews
(May 15,
1936 - May 6,
2004)
Lois Harris
Andrews (Dan) was born on May 15, 1936 in Union Springs, Alabama to the
union of Syluria and Columbus Barrow (deceased). Lois had one sister,
Constance Bennett Farr (deceased). Lois was
raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She was educated in the Cleveland School
System. Her priority was her family. Eventually Lois completed her
education by earning a technical certificate degree. For numerous
years Lois worked as a Manager in retail at Halle Department Store. In
1990 Lois retired from Dillard's Department Store. Lois Andrews was a
life long Christian who her children to love God and His Church. Lois was a
smart, articulate person - always patient, kind, and forgiving - slow to
anger and extremely supportive. Everyone who knew Lois will tell you
her grande passion in life was her family. Lois was completely and
fiercely devoted to her children and their happiness. Her favorite
times were private gatherings. She reveled in being surrounded by her
children, family and throngs of friends. These events were filled with
great music, delicious food, and people just celebrating with each
other. Never a harsh word or argument was ever heard. Lois was an
excellent dancer. She enjoyed quilting. The door to Lois' home was a
portal for many family and friends who came to Cleveland to receive a
better life. Lois was a loyal friend and trusted confidant. Through
good times and not so good times, Lois always had a beautiful smile to
strengthen everyone. Lois could touch you and ease away your troubles.
Lois could look at you with her big soulful brown eyes and make you
believe the impossible was possible. On May 6,
2004, Lois consummated her spiritual journey, but Lois is an eternal
flame. She leaves to mourn, to remember, to keep the joy of family and
friendship Walter Knox (dearest companion); Syluria Barrow (mother);
Dove Andrews (aunt); Ceotis Barrow (uncle); children, Francine,
Debora, Maurice, Columbus (deceased), Jeannice, Robbie, Joseph, Eddie
and their spouses; also twenty-two (22) grand children, and six (6
great grand children and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and innumerous
loving friends without whom her celebration of life would not have been
possible.
Betty J. Armistead
(October 24, 1945 - June 28, 2006)
Betty
J. Armistead was born October 24, 1945 in Columbus, Mississippi to
James Blair and Jimmie H. Barnes. Betty
accepted Christ at the age of 16 and joined Stephen Chapel Baptist
Church under the leadership of Rev. Boyd in Columbus, Mississippi. Betty
married the late Etcut Armistead and later moved to Cleveland in
1965 with her family. Betty
was sick for seven years. Before her illness, her joy in life was
being with her children and grandchildren and opening her house to
all. She loved music, dancing, and fixing things. Betty
departed this life on Wednesday, June 28, 2006 at HCR Manor Care of
Willoughby, Ohio. Her mother, Jimmie H. Barnes, two sisters, Vanice
W. Armistead and Linda F. Barnes, all preceded her in death. She
leaves to mourn her passing two sons, William (Lynette) Henry of
Dayton, Ohio, and Calvin (Michelle) Armistead of Cleveland, Ohio;
one daughter, Dewonder (Donnie) Kibble of Maple Heights, Ohio; three
grandchildren, Calvin Jr., William Jr., and Ashley; one sister,
Barbara Harris; one brother, Eddie Walker; seven nephews, Melvin,
Andre, Darren, Marcus, Ramone, Antonio and Mack; two nieces, Luzier
and Yolanda; as well as a host of other relatives and friends.
Gordon D. Armour, Sr.
(June 2, 1938 - June 21, 2007)
Gordon
"Wayne" Dorsey Armour, Sr. answered the call of his heavenly Father
on Thursday, June 21, 2007 at 1:00a.m. He was born of the union of the late
Bertice and Robert Armour on June 2, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Glenville High School.
Gordon enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, receiving an
Honorable Discharge in 1959. He was employed by General Motors for
33 years, where he held various positions such as crane operator,
Forman, and UAW Committeeman. Gordon was a people person and loved by
all who met him. He enjoyed movies, tennis, photography and
electronics. Brother Armour accepted Christ at an
early age and was baptized at Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church under
Reverend Theopolis Caviness. He was a Prince Hall Madson. Gordon was joined in unions to Florence
(Lenisa & Andrea); Willa (Jacqueline, Sherree & Gordon, Jr.);
Belinda (Keith, Albert & Jermaine) and Donna Kaye (Chavon). He was preceded in death by his parents
Bertice and Robert, sister Rita Ellis, and daughter Andrea. He leaves to cherish his memory his
brother Harold (Joy) of New York, daughters Lenisa, Jacqueline,
Sherree and son Gordon Jr.; four grandchildren, Briana, Daniel Jr.,
Jaden and Miles; step children Keith, Albert, Jermaine and Chavon
and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Jesse C. Armstrong, Jr. (April
26, 1969 - August 26, 2006)
Harris
Arnold, Jr.
(August 15, 1957 - January 29, 2004)
Harris Arnold, Jr.
was born August 15, 1957 in Cleveland, Ohio to Nadine and the late
Harris Arnold,
Sr. He was educated in The Cleveland Public School System
graduating from John Adams High School in 1976.
Harris began his
career in the Federal Government in 1977, having held numerous
positions. He later joined DFAS. It was here that he
met, fell in love with the center of his joy, Jackie Wilkes.
They married on May 19, 1990. Harris accepted
Christ as his personal Savior and united with the Mount Olive
Missionary Baptist Church in 1989 under the pastorate of Rev. Larry
L. Harris, Sr. He used his anointed voice to bless many souls
and lift many spirits. He loved the Men's Bible Study Group. Harris
was affectionately called "Buddy" and "Godfather" by
those who loved him. He was an avid movie-goer, but, music and
singing was precious to him.. You only had to listen to him sing to
know that he loved to sing and he loved the one he sang about.
He was a member of H.I.S. (His Inspirational Servant), Mount Olive's
LRK Choir, Mass Choir and Male Chorus. One of his favorite
songs was "Tomorrow". He leave to mourn
his loss and cherish his precious memory a loving wife of thirteen
years, Jackie; one son, Anthony Wilkes; mother, Nadine
Anthony; three sisters, Rowena Gilmore, Terri Anthony, and
Paula Garner; three grandchildren; four sisters-in-law;
six brothers-in-law; a favorite cousin, Elaine Jackson;
and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many,
many friends.
Leroy Askew
(July 19, 1938 - April 4, 2005)
Leroy Askew was born on
July 19,1938 to Laura Rouse and the late Simmie Lee Everson in West
Point, Mississippi. Leroy departed this life
on Monday April 4, 2005 at The Indian Hills Nursing Home in Cleveland,
Ohio. Leroy worked for Best
Printing Company for twelve years. He leaves to mourn his
passing a loving mother, Laura Rouse; an aunt, Ophelia Melton of West
Point, Mississippi; a niece, Imiller Webb of Greenwood, Mississippi;
and a host of cousins and friends.
Flenal E.
Atkins (March 27, 1948 - July 28 2006)
God who is rich in mercy and has never made
a mistake, chose to call our beloved home Friday, July 28, 2006. Flenal Edgar Atkins, affectionately known as
"Pee Wee", was born on March 27, 1948 to the late Edgar Atkins and
Rosemary Smith. His only brother, Verdell Smith, preceded him in death. Pee Wee was educated in the Cleveland Public
School System and graduated from East Technical High School. He also was
certified as a HVAC technician. Pee Wee served our country as a parachutist
in the United States Armed Forces. He worked for ConRail, now known as
CSX Railroad, for over twenty years until his health failed him. Pee Wee
was a hard working and dedicated employee that made everyone proud. Pee Wee was a man with a great taste for
life. He was always "sharp" and impeccably dressed from head to toe. Pee
Wee had a quiet humor about himself as he always had funny "one-liners"
to make you laugh, even at yourself. He enjoyed the finer things in life
and showed much appreciation for his blessings. He, like his father,
enjoyed driving fine cars and proved his love for them. Pee Wee enjoyed watching sports with his
son, Raynell, especially football and boxing. He also enjoyed going to
the movies and dining out with his daughters Shante, Tanisha and his
special lady friend. Practicing the principle of A.A. guidelines,
Pee Wee celebrated twenty years of sobriety. He made peace with God
through His son the Lord Jesus Christ. Pee Wee leaves to cherish his memory one
son, Raynell; two daughters, Tanisha (Jeff) and Shante (Darryal); one
sister, Zandra; nine grandchildren, Raynisha, Raynell, Rayona, Deaondre,
Martez, RayQuin, Sheray, Alaysha and Samone; one aunt, Janet; nieces,
nephews and a host of other relatives and friends. Special thanks for the love, support and
friendship until his death from Roxanne, Debbie, Gwen, Tracey and
Darryal. Special blessings to Shante for being your
Dad's faithful caregiver and proving your devotion and love throughout
his illness.
Almon Austell
(October 24, 1947 - September 27, 2004)
Almon Austell was born October 24, 1947, the
first of twins, in Savannah, Georgia to the late Allen and Rita
Austell. He was the second of five children. Along with his family, he was relocated to Cleveland, Ohio at the
age of nine years old. Almon accepted Christ as his personal Savior at the Greater
Avery Methodist Church. He attended the Cleveland Public Schools where he attended Glenville High
School and went on to graduate from Collinwood High School in 1967. He was involved in various social organizations and inducted
into the U.S. Army in 1968. He served two years and received an
Honorable Discharge after which he later joined the Ohio National
Guards. Almon was trained as an engineer and worked in that capacity
lastly at the General Electric Plant in Cleveland, Ohio. He relocated to Tampa, Florida in the
early 1980’s where he resided for fourteen years. He then decided to
move to Atlanta, Georgia,
the state of his birth, until he went on to be with the Lord. He was a people person who enjoyed socializing and sustaining
lifelong friendships. He always had a smile to share and a positive
thing to say. He was always willing to help anyone at anytime while he
traveled across the country. Almon was married to Dorothy White on June 6, 1970. He
leaves to mourn and cherish his memories, four children; two sisters,
Sarah Perdue and Maxine McCall; two brothers, Aldin Austell and Floyd
Austell. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, grand-nieces,
grand-nephews and numerous other family and friends.
Harvey Austin Sr.
(September 22, 1951 - November 6, 2007)
Harvey
Austin was born on September 22, 1951 in Eutaw, Alabama to the union
of Dunk and Mamie (nee Coleman) Austin, Sr.
During his journey on
earth, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio in the early seventies where he
met and married Vickie (nee Christian). Harvey was a
dedicated employee of twenty-eight years at the Landing Gear
Division of Goodrich Corporation. Harvey as a dedicated
family man, husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and dear
friend to Dale Sr. and Lonnie. He enjoyed watching old western
movies, watching the games (all), barbequing and enjoying his
grandchildren. On November 6, 2007,
Harvey Austin was called home. Those family members who precede him
in death include his parents; one brother, Dunk Jr.; one grandson,
Diante; and two nephews, Matthew and Gary. His memory will
forever be cherished by his loving wife of thirty four years, Vickie
Austin; three children, James (Elaine), Stephanie (Geon) and Harvey
Jr. (Carmen); nine siblings, Willie (Mary), Lucious, Betty (Bernis),
Nezzie, Matthew (Agnes), Perry (Tiffany), Mamie (Major), Napoleon
and Sammie (Ilene); ten grandchildren, Ronald, Darryl, Ericia,
DeVontae, James Jr., Harvey III, Joshua, Emani, DeSean and Yolanda;
two great-grandchildren; as well as a host of nieces, nephews,
cousins, other loving relatives and friends.
James Monroe Austin
(September 16, 1931 - January 11, 2008)
James
Monroe Austin was born on September 16, 1931 in Vicksburg,
Mississippi to the union of Leon and Duette (nee Turner) Austin Sr.
James received his education in Mississippi and in 1947, while in
his teens, he moved to Cleveland. In the early 1950s,
James met and married Josephine Mitchell. Their union grew to
include six children. Later in life during the early 1960s, James
met and married Betty Jo Harris and their union included four
children. On November 5, 1968,
James became employed by PPG Industries. He was known as a
hardworking man who rarely missed a day at work. On February 1,
1994, after twenty-five years of service, James retired from PPG. James attended
Starlight Baptist Church for close to thirty years and was an
outgoing man who everyone loved. He liked to walk the neighborhood
and was an absolute fanatic about his scratch-off lottery tickets!
James truly enjoyed television westerns, especially “Gunsmoke”. He
was also a pretty good cook - with chili, meatloaf and coon being
some of his best dishes. James loved eating at Hot Sauce Williams
and he spent so much time there that people thought he was a
Williams! James will also be remembered for one of his favorite
expressions: “I’m hell when I’m well and I ain’t never sick!” On Friday, January
11, 2008, James departed this life suddenly. He is preceded in
death by his parents; siblings, Leon Austin Jr. and Pearl
Williams; as well as by four grandchildren. Those left to mourn
and to cherish his memories include is children, Larry (Betty)
Austin Butler, Linda (Jeff) Sanders, Donna (Booker) Watts, Denise
McNary, Lorie Austin, Sheryl Austin, Lorenzo (Lisa) Eason, Janice
(Donald) Marn, Jeanette (Demetrius) Jones, James (Desiree) Austin
Jr., and Charles Harris; one sister, Rosa A. Wade; twenty-three
grandchildren; thrity-five great-grandchildren; three
great-great-grandchildren; as well as a host of other loving
relatives and friends.
Tyron Dwayne Austin
(May 16, 1968 - October 12,
2003)
Tyron Dwayne Austin was born May 16, 1968 in
Cleveland, Ohio to Donna Watts and the late George Harris, who preceded
him in death. Tyron accepted Christ at an early age and attended
Warrensville Community Baptist Church. Tyron was educated in the East
Cleveland Public School System and attended Shaw Senior High School,
participating on the basketball team. Tyron married his childhood
sweetheart, Monique Beard, on September 9, 1989, and to this union two
children were born: Brittany and Tyron, Jr. Byron last worked at
Zamiponia as a forklift driver. Tyron had a smile that warmed the hearts
of all that knew him. He was a devoted family man and he doted over his
children. Tyron was also a great chef and cooking gave him great
pleasure. Tyron was happiest surrounded by his family and friends. He
filled us with his unconditional love and impressed us with style and
filled our days with laughter. Tyron touched us all in a special way
with a rich genuine love. He will be surely missed but will live forever
in our hearts. Tyron's memory is cherished and mourned by his wife
Monique M. Austin; two sons, Demetrius and Tyron, Jr. and one daughter,
Brittany. He also leaves to mourn; his grandfather, James Monroe Austin,
Sr.; grandmother, Josephine Eason (deceased); mother, Donna Watts;
father, Booker T. Watts; 2 brothers, Antoin Austin (Travee) and Brandon;
Sherman Watts (favorite pet), 3 sisters: Sherylann, Caroline, and
Claudine; mother-in-law, Donald Beard (Tara) and Nathaniel Beard, Jr.;
aunts, Linda Sanders (Jeff) of Ravenna, Ohio, Denise, Lorrie, Janice and
Janette; uncles, Lorenzo and James, Jr.; great aunts, Ethel Crenshaw,
Rose Adams and Josephine Hall ("Granny"). He also leaves to mourn a host
of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
