Lavelle
Antwoine Gaddis
(May 1, 1975 - June 28, 2005)
Lavelle Antwoine Gaddis was born
on May 1, 1975 to Diane Gaddis and James Armstead in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Cleveland Public
Schools and loved his music, basketball, and dogs. He was also very
good with electronics and could fix almost anything if he put his mind
to it. He was a smart and good child growing up. Lavelle is loved by
us all. Lavelle was a loving son, brother,
father, and friend to all who knew him. His daughter, Sierra, was his
pride and joy. God called Lavelle home suddenly
on June 28, 2005. He leaves to mourn and carry on his memory, a loving
and devoted mother, Diane of Cleveland; loving father, James of
Alabama; daughter Sierra; brothers, Robert and James, Jr. both of
Cleveland, and Julius of Alabama; sisters, LaTasha of Cleveland and
Taleshia of Alabama; two stepbrothers, Carey, Jr. and Shyron, both of
Cleveland; and host of family and friends to cherish his memory.
Cynthia Ann
Gaines-Sullivan
(December 14, 1933 -
June 21, 2005)
Cynthia Ann Gaines
Sullivan was born on December 14, 1933 in Cleveland, Ohio to Mrs. Mary
Elizabeth Jordon Gaines and Mr. Bolton Criswell Gaines. She was
the sixth of eight children.
Cynthia grew up attending Cleveland Public
Schools and as time passed she continued high school at Spellman School
for Girls in Georgia. After spending her teenage years in the
south, she came back to Cleveland where she met and married Donald Lee
Sullivan, Sr. From this union cam eleven children. During this lifetime she was a loving mother
and wife. Yet still she was a helping person to those in need.
While in the late 40's she developed a friendship with Ms. Marion Copes,
also in the 60's she befriended Mrs. Davis. As the years rolled by
of watching her family grow, she lost her partner in life. After
her loss she met her life long companion John Watts whom she cherished
dearly. On June 21, 2005, she was called to join her
heavenly Father. Cynthia had two brothers and five sisters, James,
Thomas, Helen, Gloria, Doris, Sadie and Ruby, her husband Donald
Sullivan, her mother Mary Elizabeth Gaines, her father Bolton Criswell
Gaines, and her beloved son Lex Sullivan, whom al preceded her in death.
She leaves to mourn and cherish her memories her children, Donald
Sullivan Jr., daughter-in-law Deborah Sullivan, Deborah Grimes,
son-in-law Kevin Grimes, Prince Khalil El-Hasan Muhammad, Cheryl
Agyemane; son-in-law Kane Kam Agyemane, Stanley Sullivan;
daughter-in-law Selena Dale Sullivan, Stefon Sullivan, Joseph Sullivan,
Patrick Sullivan, Vincent Sullivan, and Wanda Sullivan; twenty
five grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren with three on the way;
seventeen nieces and nephews, twenty great nieces and nephews;
four great great nieces and nephews, and a host of cousins, other loving
relatives and friends.
Vesta R.
Garner
(June 8, 1930
- July 14, 2004)
Vesta R. Garner, beloved mother
of one son, was born on June 8, 1930 in McCrory, Arkansas to the
parents of Hosie T. and Nora Lee Garner, both of whom have preceded
her in death. Vesta accepted Christ at an
early age. She was a member of Longrove Baptist Church in Colonie,
Arkansas until she moved to St. Louis in 1945 where she joined
Sunnymount Baptist Church. Vesta attended Vashon High
School where she received her diploma. She moved to Cleveland, Ohio
in 1950. She loved to garden and cook - the latter, so much so that
you'd think she was feeding an army! She leaves to mourn and cherish her memories, one
son, Kenneth H. (Stephanie) Palmer, Sr. of Cleveland; two sisters,
Deborah Garner of Cleveland, Mildred Traywick of Chicago, Illinois;
one brother, Hosea (Roslyn) Garner of Cleveland, Ohio; and a host
of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and
friends.
Mary D. Gardner
(October 25,
1963 - June 20, 2007)
Rebecca Gary (July 23, 1920 -
February 18, 2006)
Rebecca Gary was born on July 23, 1920, in Faunsdale, Alabama to
the union of Jake and Rachel Bradley. Rebecca was the second
youngest of 13 children, all of whom preceded her in death.
During her adult years, she resided in
Demopolis, Alabama. She united with the Eastern Star Baptist
Church, where her commitment and service to the Lord was
demonstrated. She also bore and raised six children and worked
at Holiday Cleaners. Rebecca was well known and respected
throughout the community, with many referring to her as "Aunt Beck."
She truly loved the Lord, and continually prayed for all of her children
and grandchildren, who knew her as Mu' (Mu'dear). In her latter years, Rebecca
relocated north to be near her children; residing first in Detroit,
Michigan and finally settling in Cleveland, Ohio, where she departed
this life on Saturday, February 18, 2006. Rebecca leaves to mourn her passing
and cherish her memory; 6 children; 4 daughters, Rachel Hall (Donald) of
Cleveland, OH, Bertha Spann of Forkland, AL, Ernestine Cowan of
Cleveland, OH, Willa B. Gary Lee (Curtis) of Detroit, MI, and 2 sons,
William Gary and Calvin Gary (Queenie), both of Cleveland, OH; 21
grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and
friends.
Joseph R.
General (June 12, 2004 - August 13, 2006)
On
June 12, 2004, God's miraculous gift in the form of Joseph Rynell
General, 2lbs 3 ounces, was given unto DeVeda General and Joseph
Spencer. Despite the challenging obstacles and being given a life span
of only 2 months, Joseph fought the odds and lived for 2 years and 2
months, hence acquiring the name of "Lil Fighter". Joseph was high
spirited and smart. He developed a love for music, dancing, eating,
ladies, spotting RTA buses and the "laying on of hands". His love
for basketball stemmed from him attending the games of his mom and
dad. His favorite songs were "Ho, Ho, Ho, Hosanna" and “If You're
Happy and You Know It". Joseph was known by
many names - JoJo, Joe, Lil Man, Sweetie, Boopie, Fighter, Little
Joey, Schrumpskin Munchkin and Lil Fella! Even though he couldn't
speak, he communicated well...Very Well!! On June 12, 2005,
Joseph was dedicated back to God by Pastor Bobbi J. Gwaltney. Those left to
cherish his memory include his mother, DeVeda ShaVon General and
father, Joseph Lynell Spencer; grandparents, Rev. and Mrs. Jack
Spencer Jr., Elder and Mrs. Anthony O'Neal and Stanley Bentley;
great-grandparents, Evangelist Virginia Jones, Veda General, and
Alfreda Rice; great-great-grandmother, Emma Jean Williams;
godparents, Vicie Hurst, James Link, Ladonna Norris, Ra'von
Wiggins; special cousin, Kayla; special uncle, Mech; and a host
of aunts, uncles, cousins, other loving relatives and friends.
Delores
"Maggie" Gibson
(April 15, 1945 - September 15, 2004)
Delores "Maggie" Gibson was born on April
15, 1945 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Jessie and Lillian
Buchanan. She attended the Cleveland Public Schools and confessed
her life to Christ at an early age. On November 26, 1961, Maggie married Argie
Lee Gibson, Sr. To this union, six children were born. Maggie was a wonderful and kind hearted
person who always cared and listened to whatever you had to say.
She wasn't a stranger to anyone. She was a hard worker and was
employed by London Cleaners for over thirty years until her illness
disabled her to work. On September 15, 2004, Maggie entered into
rest surrounded by family members. Preceding her in death are her
parents, husband, sisters Opal, Alice and Jean, brothers Jessie and
Arthur, and grandchild Ronnie. She leaves to mourn, her children: Argie
Jr., Princella (Jimmie), Tina (Jefferey), LaTonya, Steven (Jamila)
and Anthony; eighteen grandchildren: LaTisha, Argie, Marcus,
Tiffany, Audrea, Shanta, Deon, Tyler, Yohonz, Yolonzo, Selita, Jayla,
Brandon, Jasmine, Xavier, Godrick, Steven Jr., and J'shawn;
thirteen great-grandchildren: Rodney, Precious, Chaynel, Teimara,
Deondra, Kayla, Joseph, Christian, Argie, Deonta, Trinity, Aniya,
and Jerrell; one brother Eugene; eight sisters-in-law: Addie
(Jimmie), Lula (Ray), Irene, Willa, Berphine, Leandrine, Ethel, and
Fannie; and one brother-in-law John. She also leaves a host of
nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will miss her dearly.
Wilkey A.
Gibson (November 17, 1940 - May 24, 2007)
Wilkey A.
Gibson was born in Moulton, Alabama in Lawrence County to the late
Hardin and Ora B. Gibson on November 17, 1940. At the age of three,
the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio where Wilkey was baptized in
Mount Gillion Baptist Church by the late Reverend William L. Engram.
He attended John Burrough’s Elementary and Thomas Edison which
served as both the Middle and High Schools. In 1961,
he married Lavern “Peaches” Ward and to this union, Alicia and Quida
Gibson were born. In 1964,
he met and married Katie Forbes. Katie brought to the marriage
Pamela J. Forbes who Wilkey later adopted and to their union Shelton
Lamont and Priscilla Monique Gibson were born. Wilkey was
employed first at U.S. Steel and later retired from Midland Republic
Steel, later renamed Midland Products, where he began as a press
operator, and retired in 2003 as a material handler and union
representative, a post he held until his retirement. Wilkey and
Katie loved to take the children on weekend trips with one of the
fondest activities being horseback riding. He was an avid
outdoorsman with fishing and hunting being his favorites. Fishing
with his grandfather, “Dad Emmett”; father, “Judge”; brother, Abron;
and uncles “O.G.” and “Heggie”. His fishing trips were enjoyed in
the company of his grandmother, Missouri; “Mother”; brother, Abron;
and son, Shelton. In later years his joy was taking his grandson,
Shelton; and son, Shelton, on long fishing trips to Sandusky on the
boat he shared with his brother Abron. He
departed this life on Thursday, May 24, 2007 at Huron Hospital in
East Cleveland. He leaves
to mourn his absence a loving and devoted wife, Katie Gibson; seven
children, Shelton, Priscilla, Pamela, Alicia, Quida, Veronica, and
Tremaine; two brothers, Abron (Eloise) and Curtis; two sisters,
Anita “Neicy” and Lisa; his mother, Ora B. and stepmother, Ella;
aunts, Elizabeth, Ailean, and Opal; grandchildren, Allison, Lakia,
Tamia, Tabitha, Sheterra, Shelton, Shambrian, and Q’kala; great
grandchildren, DeShawn and Cameron; as well as a host of nieces,
nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.
Linda Giles
(November 21, 1958 -
October 29, 2003)
Linda Shelton Giles was born on November 21, 1958,
the third child of Edward Shelton (father) and Josephine Morgan
(mother). Linda attended and graduated from Collinwood High
School. She was also employed at various places around Cleveland to
include Cleveland Public Schools and The Salvation Army. She was
known for her silly, but, charming personality. Linda’s enormous
sense of humor and passion for giving to others was well respected
by family and friends. She leaves to cherish her memory four sisters,
Josephine (Darrell) Townes, Marilyn (Calvin) Kidd, Judy (William)
McMickens, Robin Shelton; and one brother, Edward Shelton. Also
left to cherish her memory are nephews Joe, Robert, Charles,
Jeremiah and a niece Tamarea; her close friends Jackie, Mary, Pearl,
and Barbara; and a host of other family and friends. Her legacy includes three children, daughters Takella
(fiancé Derrick) and Lucketta Giles, and son Legran Giles. This
legacy further extends to grandsons Qashaun Giles and Daveon Ashley. May we all miss, but let Linda Giles go, for her love
lives in us all.
U. C. Gill
U. C. Gill was born June 20, 1940 in Leake County, Carthage,
Mississippi. He was the youngest of thirteen children born to the
late Deacon Booker T. and Lizzie Wilder Gill. Six of his siblings
preceded him in death. U. C. accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mt.
Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Carthage, Mississippi. In later
years after he moved to Cleveland, Ohio, U. C. united with the Mt.
Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland in the early 1980’s
under the pastorate of Rev. Larry L. Harris Sr. U. C. was educated in the Carthage, Mississippi School
System. His family moved to Cleveland, Ohio in 1951 and he continued
his education at the Martin Luther King School. U. C. was employed by the Halle Brothers Co., WKYC T.V.,
Sears and Belman Lumber Co. Whether it was watching sports or
partying, U. C. loved to enjoy himself. He was a real people person. In 1979 U. C. had a bad accident that left him paralyzed from
the waist down. He spent a year in Metro Hospital, where he received
excellent care. He was then transferred to Braeview Care & Rehabilitation Center (located on Euclid Ave.). We
especially are beholding to the beautiful and dedicated staff at
Braeview for the love and professional care they gave to U. C. U. C. was blessed to have had a loving and devoted sister,
Bessie Wiltiams, who cared for him over 27 years. During the time he
was in the Rehab Facility, she did his laundry and brought him home
cooked meals every week. He anxiously looked forward to his weekly
visits and thoroughly enjoyed them. He leaves to mourn his loss and cherish his precious memory;
three sisters, Mary Collier of Cleveland OH, Nellie L. Jones of
Milwaukee, WIS, and Bessie L. Williams (John) of Cleveland OH; three
brothers, Jessie W. Gill of Carthage, MISS, Sydney Gill (Mamie), and
Luvenia Gill (Deloris) both of Cleveland OH; very special friends at
Braeview Care and Rehab Center; and a host of nieces, nephews other
relatives and friends.
Donald Gilmore
(March 5, 1940 - February 5, 2007)
Alyah C.
Gilson
(August 26, 2005)
Leroy Givans
(January 29, 1923 - July 7, 2006)
Leroy Givans was born January 29, 1923
in Calhoun Alabama to Jasper and Annie Givans, both deceased. Leroy
was the 9th of twelve children. He was educated in the Calhoun
County Schools. At the age of 17 Leroy moved to Ohio. He
began working at a very young age. Later in life he accepted Christ
and was a member at University Church of Christ. He was a hard
working man and worked 35 years and Harvard Manufacturing until he
retired. Leroy was a giving person and always helped others.
Anything he had, he gave to others unconditionally. He never was a
stranger to anyone. He loved his family as well as friends; lending
a hand when you called on him. He did for his kids, grandkids and
great-grandkids - taking and picking them up from school. One
thing's for sure, he always paid his respects at someone's funeral.
He always made time for that. He would always have a joke to tell
you, and his famous old stories; he certainly made you laugh. He
loved soul food cooking and eating he enjoyed. Leroy loved his
garden - growing greens, cabbage, tomatoes and peppers on 148th
Street. There are lots of memories at 148th Street parties, cook
outs, and family gatherings. He leaves to cherish his memory
children, Curtis (Darnacea), Jeffrey (Tina), Valencia, June, Henry
(Fredericka), Eugene "Sandy" (Sharon), Jerald "Jerry", Leon, LaVerne,
Evelyn, Brenda, (Bernard); sisters Suzie Smith and Ada Willis, both
of Cleveland, Ohio; brother Henry Givans of Montgomery, Alabama;
sister-in-law Rosalee Givans of Cleveland, Ohio; a host of
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives
and friends as well as soul mates Emma McHenry and Bessie Rivers
with whom he shared his life with.
James Glasgow
(May 14, 1930 - September 27, 2007)
James
William Glasgow, who was born on May 14, 1930 in Newberry, South
Carolina, was the first born son of Matthew and Annie Laura (nee
Pope) Glasgow. James moved around
to different cities for work and came to Cleveland from Detroit in
the early seventies. He gained employment at Midland Steel Products
and put in years of dutiful service as a Machinist and Union
Steward. In the early nineties, James retired from Midland. James had a love for
cars and was the neighborhood mechanic, a.k.a. word of mouth
mechanic! He was known for buying, rebuilding, detailing and
selling cars. James also loved to cook, dance and to dress
sharply! In addition, James enjoyed gaming activities - mention a
casino and he was all for it! James was outgoing
and sociable and had a lot of friends. He touched the lives and
hearts of many with his smile and laughter and he will surely be
missed by all! On September 27,
2007 James passed away peacefully at home. Preceding him in death
are his parents, Matthew and Annie Glasgow; daughter, Vickie
Glasgow; nephews, Lamont Jones and Logan Wade; father-in-law,
Leonard Golden and mother-in-law, Shirley Hurst. He leaves to cherish
his memory his loving wife Margaret Glasgow; daughter Dorothy
(Bill) Williams, sons James (Wanda) Glasgow and Gene (Christine)
Glasgow, stepson Rayfeair Walker, and godson Kelvin Womack;
siblings Iola Glasgow and J.B. (Joan) Glasgow; grandchildren Tracey,
James, Jackie, Selina, Angie, Demetrius, Dorothy, Eric, Frankie,
Petey, Stacey, Kim, Ebony, Al Jr., Brandy, Brittany, Martika,
Rayfeair Jr., Qron, Myisha and numerous great-grandchildren; an
aunt, Ollie Allen; nieces Carla, Pam, Perry, Ingride, Natosha,
Jasmin, Lisa, Nichole, Victoria, Maria, Stacey, Marcia, and Lynn;
nephews Bryant, Reggie, Gregory, Davell, Mike, Shon, James B.,
Antwan, Tim and David; mother-in-law Mary Golden; sisters-in-law
Denise (James) Anderson, Rosalind (Perry) Ford, Diane Smith and
Diane Mickle; brothers-in-law Leonard (Roz) Golden and James (Susette)
Golden; friends Carol, Al Mouzen, Violet Oden, Sennie Wilson,
Denice Tillman, Beverly Tillman; and a host of other loving family
members and friends.
Dellareese K. Goard (September 21, 1978 - February 7, 2006)
Dellareese
Kynyatta Goard was born to the union of Antoinette Goard and Martin
Dunlap on September 21, 1978 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Dellareese accepted Christ as her personal
Savior at a very young age and became a member of Euclid Avenue
Congregational Church where she was a faithful youth until her illness. Dellareese graduated from Lincoln West High
School in 1997. On February 7, 2006 Dellareese quietly
passed away at home. Dellareese touched many lives during her
illness. She was a true soldier for the Lord! Everyone who
came into contact with her admired Dellareese's strength, endurance and
determination to live. Dellareese was a very fun loving person who
always had a glowing smile on her face. She loved to travel and
stay on the go. She was a great talker and loved to five advice
even if you did not want to hear it. Dellareese was always in the
midst of everything with everyone. If anyone ever wanted to know
anything, all they had to do was ask "Yatta" because everyone always
talked with her about everything. Dellareese leaves to celebrate her life her
parents Antoinette Goard of Cleveland, Ohio and Martin Dunlap of Santa
Rosa, California; a devoted grandmother, Flocie Goard; and a
grandfather, Harvey Dunlap, Sr., both of Cleveland, Ohio; two
brothers, Deandre Goard of Akron, Ohio and Ulysses Goard of Cleveland,
Ohio; two sisters Tiffany and Addie Goard of Cleveland, Ohio; one
faithly godmother, Johnnie Mitchell of Cleveland, Ohio; one nephew
and niece, Jeremiah and Tajah Goard of Cleveland, Ohio; one
godchild, Ming; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Maeonia Grady
(February 17, 1943 - March 30, 2007)
Born
February 17, 1943, in Chicago, IL to Marvin McGhee who preceded her
in death and Mae Frances McGhee. After remarriage she was raised by
Shelby and Mae Foster. Early in life, Mae as she was called by
most accepted Christ at an early age and united with the
Episcopalian church. She was educated in the Cleveland Public
School system. She united in matrimony to Donald J.
Grady who also preceded her in death. She leaves to mourn three
children JoAnne, Ronald (Carolyn) and Evelyn Grady, five
granddaughters Ayrelle, NaTasha, Danielle, Alexandria and Brittainy
and one great granddaughter Nyla. Mae, was employed at University Hospital
for 22 years and retired in 1989. Mae was very talented, she was an avid
bowler and bowled in several leagues, she also was a seamstress,
artist, decorator she also loved to read and listen to music and
throw a party (Mae Grady style), and she had a personality that will
surely be remembered. After a lengthy illness, she passed into
eternity on March 30, 2007. She also leaves to cherish her memory
parents Mr. & Mrs. Shelby & Mae Foster of Cleveland, OH; five
sisters Mrs. Gloria (Benjamin) Hills, Ms. Janet Arrington, Mrs.
Evelyn (Walter) Hill, Mrs. MaryAnn (Carl) Hammond and Ms. Jewell
McGhee; three brothers Mr. Lawrence (Shirley) McGhee, Mr. Raymond
McGhee and Mr. Kenneth McGhee and a host of nieces, nephews,
relatives and friends. She will be joining her sister Ms.
Delores McCrainey who preceded her in death at there new address
where there will be no pain, sadness, only happiness, joy,
laughter, and angels.
Deborah Renee
Grant (June 30, 1957 - December 20, 2006)
Deborah
Renee Grant affectionately known as "Pete", was born to the late
William H. Grant and Geraldine (Bolden) Grant on June 30, 1957 in
Cleveland, Ohio. She was the fifth of eight children.
Debbie attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from East
Technical High School. Debbie worked on various jobs over the
years, with her latest place of employment at the Miracle Village
Treatment Facility until her health kept her from working. Debbie accepted Christ at an early age.
She attended Anathoth Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor
Nathaniel Bolden. She was very active and faithful to her N.A.
family for 11 years where she made many friends who remained with
her until the end. Debbie loved to shop. She would
travel to New York regularly to shop. Her favorite store was
Wal-Mart. She loved to travel and spend time with her three
grandsons who were her pride and joy. Debbie went home to be with the Lord at
2:20pm on December 20, 2006 with her loving companion of many years,
Ray Williams, and her family by her side. Preceding her in death were her parents
William (Bill) and Geraldine Grant, one brother Michael D. Grant and
her favorite niece Tracie D. Grant. She leaves to cherish her memory a
loving companion of twelve years, Ray "Al" Williams; three
daughters Tamica Dial (Anthony, Marquissa and Marvella Grant;
one son, Anthony two stepchildren, Cherita Anglen and Raymone
Williams; three sisters, Loretta Hunterm Roygenia Steele,
Shnnon Gray (Eric); eight brothers William (Laura), John,
Raymond (Cynthia), Shawn, Deon (Rhonda), Derrick Mize (Keisha),
Chris Mize, and Grant Mize. A host of uncles and aunts,
nieces, nephews, cousins and friends with special mention to Uncle
and Aunt Joseph Sevier and a very special life long friend Brenda
Orange.
Napoleon Grant
(December
15, 1925 - November 14, 2005)
Napoleon Grant, or "Nap"
as he was affectionately known, was born on December 15, 1925 to the
union of Herman and Nancy Grant in Anniston, Alabama, where, at a young
age, he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. On March 17, 1944, at the
age of eighteen, Napoleon entered the United States Army. While in the
service, he earned an EAME Theater Ribbon and a World War II Victory
Medal. On May 31, 1946, Napoleon received an Honorable Discharge from
the Army and decided to make Cleveland, Ohio his home. For more than thirty
years, Nap had been employed at the General Motors Fisher Body Plant.
In 1979 he retired from General Motors as a press operator. Nap was a very outgoing
and social man who had an absolute passion for golf! He spent many,
many hours on golf courses in this area and in other cities perfecting
his game! Nap also had a love for children and hated to see a child
being mistreated. He was also a very opinionated individual and was the
sort of person that you needed to come out straight with! On Monday, November 14,
2005, Nap departed this life. Those left to mourn and to cherish his
memories include his loving wife of more than forty years, Odessia;
other loving relatives and friends.
Dorothy
Bernice Gray (June 1, 1929 - February 11, 2007)
Dorothy Bernice Gray was born on June 1,
1929 in Opp, Alabama. She died on February 11, 2007 at the age
of 77 years old after many years of pain and suffering. Her
parents were Ella and William Gregory and she is survived by two
sisters: Clera Adams and Clara Lindsay and one brother:
Ernest Gregory. Dorothy married James Gray and they were
blessed with two children: Richard Gray and Janet Gray.
She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Lisa Evans
(Michael), Franchot Thomas Jr., Anthony C. Thomas, Jason Gray
(Monica) and Richard Gray Jr.; four great grandchildren, Jason
Xavier, Anthony T. Thomas Jr., Tyler C. Thomas, and Mikayla;
and host of loving relatives and friends. After moving to Cleveland, Ohio in 1950,
Dorothy was employed by Dr. Henry Hunter, and continued to share a
bond with his caring family until her death. Dorothy enjoyed a
variety of entertainment including music, food, and most of all
being surrounded by people. Dorothy symbolized her dedication to
serve Jehovah God on July 7, 1951. "Sister Gray" was a "people
person" as shown by her diligence in teaching the Bible to anyone
she met. All who came to know her were refreshed by her zeal.
Even while suffering prolonged illnesses, she was aglow with the
spirit of God and always ready to make a defense for "the truth".
And she will be remembered for her kind and caring disposition and
ability to quote a Bible verse to address any problem. Strong
in God's will she inspired those who sought to encourage her.
Her physical limitations never hindered her from helping her family
and friends to look to Jehovah God for answers and always keep in
mind the promised paradise. Her confidence was in Romans
8:35-39 which in part states "nor height nor depth nor any other
creation will be able to separate us from God's love that is in
Christ Jesus our Lord."
James E.
Greathouse
James E. Greathouse
was born on September 3, 1940 to Eddie and Estella (nee Garrett)
Greathouse in Linesville, Alabama. He was one of several children
that God sent to the Greathouse Family. James moved to
Cleveland, Ohio from Chattanooga, Tennessee approximately
thirty-five years ago. While here, his occupational expertise
had always been in auto mechanics and he eventually came to own his
own shop. James' favorite pastime was taking fishing trips on
his boat. In 1996, he met and married the former Ethel Vaughn. God knew what his
life was never going to be easy, but He was always there to help him
along the way. Hard times came and
went, but God gave James a precious smile that he shared with
everyone wherever he went. If help was needed, he never waited to
be asked. He was always there to do whatever he could. The Lord
saw that James was ill and tired and whispered, "James, you have
done well. Come and go with me. Although you have been a
Greathouse all of your days, I have a 'Greater House' for you." On Tuesday, James
departed this life. He is preceded in death by his father; his son,
James Greathouse, Jr.; brothers, Cecil W. Greathouse and George H.
Greathouse; a sister, Odessa Greathouse; and one brother-in-law.
He leaves to cherish
his memory his wife, Ethel; his mother, Estella Greathouse; his sons
Harvey J. Armstrong, Jamie Greathouse, Robert Jordan, Terrance
Ambler, and Roosevelt Vaughn; daughters, Carol D. Greathouse, Edna
J. Greathouse, Tabetha Greathouse, Jackie Jordan, Theresa Jordan,
and Stephanie Glenn; brothers, Edward Greathouse, Roy L. (Vivian)
Greathouse, W. Frank (Lorna) Greathouse, and Randy Greathouse;
sisters, Othel Greathouse, Mary L. Greathouse, Elouise G. Beaman,
Edna G. (Thomas Phillips) Sales, and Casandra Greathouse;
mother-in-law, Evelyn Vaughn; six sisters-in-law and six
brothers-in-law; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren,
other loving relatives and friends.
Alex Warren
Green, Sr.
(May 6, 1952 -
November 29, 2005)
Estella M. Green-Harper
(November 21, 1919 - April 8, 2006)
"A
Time to be Born".
Ethella Marcina (nee
Ashcraft) was born in Wingate, North Carolina on November 21, 1919 to
the late Jessie and Lula Ashcraft. After the passing of her parents,
she and her sister were raised by their grandparents, George and Julia
Ashcraft.
"A
Time to Plant"
Ethella accepted Christ
at an early age and was baptized at Nicey Grove Baptist Church in
Wingate, North Carolina. She attended Wingate public schools and upon
finishing, relocated to Baltimore, Maryland. In 1943, she moved to
Cleveland, Ohio where she immediately joined Greater Mt. Ararat Baptist
Church. She was a devoted member of the Usher Board, the Missionary
Society and the Hospitality Committee. Ethella worked for the Hotel
Majestic for 20 years. She also worked for Huron Road Hospital where
she retired after more than 30 years of service. Everyone knew that
Ethella loved to stay active by cooking, traveling and most of all,
spending time with her grandchildren. Ethella's home was always open to
those in need.
"A
Time to Love"
Ethella met and married
William Black, and to this union a son, William Zamp Black, Jr. was
born. Later, Ethella married Yerby C. Green, and to this union a set of
twins, Roy and Ray, were born. Ethella was later married to Anderson
Harper.
"A
Time to Mourn"
Ethella went home to be
with the Lord on Saturday, April 8, 2006. She was preceded in death by
her husband, Anderson Harper, and eldest son, William Zamp Black, Jr.
She is survived by her two sons, Roy (Betty), and Ray (Vicki); her
sister, Dorothy Massey of Canton, Ohio; grandchildren, Demetrius, Antwan,
Shadai, Siquia, Falyn, Courtney and Brylyn; great-grandchildren, and a
host of nephews, nieces, cousins, family and friends.
Archibald Leonard Grierson
(April 20, 1928
-
February 8, 2005)
Archibald Leonard (Lenny) Grierson, M.D. was born on April
20, 1928 in New York, New York to the late Archibald William and Joyce
Louise Grierson. He was one of three sons born of the union including
brothers Caryl and Dudley. Dr. Grierson departed this life on Tuesday,
February 8, 2005. The Grierson family moved to Jamaica when Dr. Grierson was
about a year old. After staying in Jamaica several years, the family
returned to New York City where Dr. Grierson attended high school. He
moved to Cleveland, Ohio to grace the halls of Case Western Reserve
University where he earned a Bachelors degree while studying German. Dr.
Grierson completed his Masters program at New York University. He
continued his education at Heidelberg University in Germany where he
studied medicine and gained a Medical Doctor degree. He returned to
Cleveland to do his one-year internship and three-year residency at
Huron Road Hospital. Upon completion of his residency he was awarded a
Cardiac Fellowship at Syracuse University. Dr. Grierson practiced
medicine for several years before opening his own office at Severance
Medical Center, which was a source of health and healing for over 30
years. During his practice, it was suggested that he attend Ashland
Seminary College where he earned his Master of Divinity. Dr. Grierson met and married Chastean Bunkley in 1960. They
remained partners in Christ, love and marriage for the last 45 years. Dr. Grierson accepted Christ at an early age. The Spirit of
Christ touched him while listening to a radio program. He found his
church home at Smoot Memorial located at 39th Street in
Cleveland where he ministered to youths every Saturday. He later
became a devoted member and trustee of Union Avenue Christian &
Missionary Alliance Church. Dr. Grierson was a pioneer and pillar of his community. He
was able to help so many people including patients, colleagues, family
and friends. For Dr. Grierson, music was a joy, learning was his
passion and laughter was his prescription. Whether playing the violin
or the flute or singing in the choir - he was happy. From attending
medical seminars all over the world, learning foreign languages to Bible
studies - he was focused. And if there was a way to make you laugh, he
would be there to tell a corny joke or hand you a funny story.
Betty Griffin
(October 11, 1939 - April 28, 2008)
Marjorie Griffin-Hollins
(See Hollins)
Priscilla H. Griffin
(March 26, 1938
- October 28,
2005)
Priscilla H. Griffin was
born on March 26, 1938 in Johnson City, Tennessee to the union of Howard
and Gladys (nee Cole) Vaught. She was raised and educated in Tennessee
and, at a young age, she accepted Christ into her life. For approximately fifty
years, Priscilla (or "Pat" as she was affectionately known) made
Cleveland, Ohio her home. She attended the East Glenville United
Methodist Church, was a child care provider as well as homemaker. In
the 1980's, she was introduced to Waymon Griffin (by his sister) and
they were later united in holy matrimony. Priscilla, who was
stylish in her dress and youthful in spirit, was an outgoing woman who
met no stranger and who seemed to connect with all. She always reached
out to others, even to others with her same illness. Priscilla had a
deep love for her family and she loved children! She also enjoyed Black
culture and exploring different cultures through art, collectibles, as
well as through cooking. On October 28, 2005, she
departed this life. She is preceded in death by her parents and her
husband, Waymon Griffin, who passed away in 1991. Those left to mourn and
to cherish her memory include one daughter, Q. Huberetta (Cecil) Brown;
grandchildren, David K. Brown and Cecil E. Brown, II; sisters-in-law,
Anna Priest and Louise Robinson; as well as several nieces, nephews,
other loving relatives and friends.
Jessie Grigsby
(January 1, 1922 - February 5, 2008)
Jessie
Grigsby was born on January 1, 1922 to the late Webster and Elana
Grigsby in Homer, Louisiana. He departed this life February 5,
2008. As a young man Jessie joined the Army
and it was during WWII that he earned several medals, including one
for courage. After serving in the Army, Jessie moved
to Dayton, Ohio where he worked at Dayton's rubber plant for 2 years
before moving to Cleveland in the late fifties. It was here
that he found employment with the City of Cleveland and soon after
net Ruth and they had two sons together, Carl and Ricky. They
enjoyed more than 35 years of marriage together before Ruth preceded
Jessie in death in 1997. Jessie leaves to cherish fond memories
of him, two sons, Carl Grigsby (Pam) and Ricky Grigsby (Christal);
five grandchildren, Carl J. Isom, Jessica, Ricky, Justin and Carmen
Grigsby; three sisters Rossie Norton (Minden, Louisiana),
Clotie Webb (Dayton, Ohio) and Joyce Chatmen (Minden, Louisiana);
and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and loving friends. Many thanks to everyone who helped make
this time easier for the family with a special mention going to Emma
Lavendar, Doris Taylor, Dessie Barron, Camilla Kinnerly and Sharon
Isom.
Helen Adele Guyton
(December 1, 1927 - January 9, 2005)
Helen Guyton was born in
Lyman,
Mississippi
on December 1st, 1927, to mother Betty and father George
Porter. She was sister to her surviving brother, Sylvester Porter, and
her late brothers William and Emmanuel Porter. Helen grew up in
Woodville, Mississippi, and came as a teenager to live in Cleveland,
Ohio, where she graduated from Central High School. She married Calvin
Perry in the late 1940’s and gave birth to a daughter, Deborah. In 1954
she wed Eugene Guyton, Sr., and they would remain married until his
passing in November of 2001. Their 47 years together produced three
sons, Keith, Kevin, and Kenneth Guyton, and a host of memories.
One of Helen’s most notable accomplishments was managing to
attend Cuyahoga
Community College as an adult with four children, obtaining her
Associate Degree in Nursing, then securing a job at Mt. Sinai Hospital.
Helen Guyton became one of the most respected members of the Mt. Sinai
nursing staff during her tenure there, while continuing to manage her
home, and raise stable and loving children.
After her retirement from
Mt.
Sinai,
and her husband’s from the Cleveland Fire Department, they became deeply
involved members and officers of the Intercity Yacht Club, and the
Tuskegee Airmen. She traveled extensively with Eugene to fulfill the
duties of both organizations.
One of Helen’s greatest pleasures was sitting by the
water…lake, river, or pond, it didn’t matter…with a fishing pole in her
hand. She spent many happy hours casting, and telling stories to her
husband and children as she fished. Helen went to her rest on January 9th,
2005, and her memory will be cherished by her beloved brother, children,
grandchildren, and great grandchild, as well as her loving
daughter-in-law and sisters-in-law. In addition, she will be fondly
remembered by a multitude of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives,
and friends.
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