Jack Porter, affectionately known as (Pookie and Mouse) departed this life on May 3, 2026, after a long illness. Jack was born to the parents of Bennie and Delores in Cleveland, Ohio on July 11, 1951, he was the eldest of 9 children.

Jack grew up having fun with his siblings, cousins and neighborhood friends.  Jack was quite the character I am sure many have stories they can tell. Jack was educated in the Cleveland Public School System and attended John F. Kennedy High School.  He then went on to join the United States Navy.  After leaving the Navy, he worked for Parker Hannifin, American Spring & Wire and the Eaton Corporation.

Jack married Diane and to that union one child was born Kevin Porter, this marriage ended in divorce.  Jack would later have two additional children: a son named Jamiro Seats and a daughter named Jacqueline Seats, with Zelma Seats. Jack later found love again and got married to Donella Cornelius and they remained joined together until he departed this life.

Jack loved music, dancing, he had a green thumb and loved gardening.  He also enjoyed fishing and loved tinkering with cars.  He also took pleasure in a fine cigarette, relished a delicious meal and had a passion for cooking.

Jack will be remembered by the memories of those who knew and loved him.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Delores Porter and brothers; Bennie and Earnest Porter.

Jack is survived by his wife; Donella, father Bennie Porter Sr., sons; Kevin Porter and Jamiro Seats (Kiara), daughter Jacquleine Seats, and stepdaughter, Carmela Turrentine, brother, Bernard (Denise), sisters, Linda, Consandra (John), Lisa (Leon), Sharon (Johnny), and Gina (Tony), an uncle Robert Porter, his grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of other relatives and friends.

                                                                  Humbly submitted,

                                                                      The Family

Truth Marsha Neil Lowe, was born on July 17, 1976, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Francine Lowe and Larry. She departed this life on April 08, 2026, at the age of 49.

Truth was educated through the Cleveland and Shaker Public School Sys- tems. Throughout her life, Truth wore many hats and was known as a jack of all trades as she mastered every job she took on with determination and skill.

Truth was the oldest daughter to her mother Francine and older sister to Brandy. She was blessed to be raised with countless cousins raised as sib-lings. She recognized her first best friend as her cousin Raheem Merritt, Sr.

Truth loved music, especially dancing, and was often known as the life of the party.  Her favorite genre was Jamaican. She loved to tell jokes and sto-ries. She lived her life on her own terms and to the absolute fullest and una-pologetically. She left a lasting impression wherever she went.

Truth Marsha Neil Lowe will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her.  Life is forever changed without her presence here on earth; her laughter, love, and legacy will live on in our hearts.

Family was at the heartbeat of Truth’s world; she cherished her boyfriend “Daddy” Bernard her children and grandchildren and even when apart her love will always be with them.

Truth was preceded in death by her mother, Francine Lowe, and grand-mother Annette Lowe.

Truth is remembered by her; her grandfather, Ernest Golson; her uncle, Ivor Golson; her siblings, Brandy Lowe and Alfonso Johnson; her children, Ernest Lowe, Antonio Lowe, Antonisha Lowe, and Deshawn Lowe; and her grandchildren, AJ, Parker, Avah, Kayden, Wynter, and Ezra. She is also survived by her niece, Truth Lowe; her nephews, Michael Fields, Tearle Toeran, and Xavier Lowe; her close friends Victoria, Kokruda, Char, and Sherry; her boyfriend, Bernard Blount and a host cousins, relatives and friends all of whom she adored.

Lynn Edward Gerald Badgett, lovingly known as Pete, passed away on April 14, 2026, at the age of 78, in Garfield Heights, Ohio.

Pete was born on July 31, 1947, in Washington, D.C., to Rudolph Reese and Gertrude Fears, both of whom preceded him in death. Pete was also preceded in death by his sisters, Joann Nixon (Robert) and Myrtle Badgett Burrell (Columbus Sr). Pete was a devoted son, father, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence brought strength, laughter, and comfort to all who knew him.

He attended East High School, where he excelled in athletics, playing varsity football and competing in track and field as a pole vaulter, earning multiple letters. Pete graduated in 1966 and was offered a football scholarship to Ohio State University. Instead, he chose to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Air Force in November 1966. During his four years of service, Pete achieved the rank of Sergeant while serving as a Security Policeman. Pete was honorably discharged on May 1, 1970.

Following his military service, Pete built a career in retail management, holding leadership roles with companies such as Sears, Roebuck and Company and Kenny Shoes.

Pete was known for his kindness, loyalty, sense of humor, generosity, and strong faith. Pete was deeply devoted to his family and friends and had a quiet way of showing up for others. His warmth and character left an impression that will not be forgotten.

Pete was a true artist at heart. He loved painting and putting his creativity into designing Tshirts and hats. He also found joy in gardening and landscaping, especially planting flowers and bringing beauty to outdoor spaces. Pete was known for talking nonstop—24/7, even in his sleep—which was just part of his vibrant personality. He had a deep passion for dogs and cherished the time he spent with them. Most of all, Pete dearly loved spending time with his younger sister, Malinda, who was also his devoted caregiver.

He is survived by his daughter, Taylor Lela Lynn Badgett; siblings William Badgett (Sandy), Donna Badgett Hurley, James Lamont Badgett, Teresa Badgett, Malinda Morrow Kitchings (Anthony), Priscellia Brady (Anthony), Suzette Ward, and Caroline Brown; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and godchildren who will carry his memory forward with love and gratitude.

Special thanks are extended to his beloved Malondria Griffin (Lonnie), Jaylan Allen “Number 1,” along with Jontez Allen, whom Pete affectionately referred to as John the Baptist, for the exceptional care, love, and devotion they showed him during his illness.

Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the time we shared with Pete and for the love he gave so freely. Pete will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Mattie Bell Lewis was born on March 27, 1930 to parents Bubba Lee and Mattie Lou Price in Honoraville, Alabama. She was given the name Mattie Bell by her Aunt Minnie Bell Price (Dad's sister). Mattie was the third of twelve children, five sisters and six brothers. Mattie's formal education was in Alabama. She lived through eight generations, from her great grandmother to her great great grandchildren. She joined Union Baptist Church and was baptized at the age of eleven. She went to Sunday school, sang in the choir, and participated in the Junior Missionary Society. There she met the "Love of Her Life" Joe Frank Lewis. They married and later moved to Cleveland, OH. They are the proud parents of Maxine, Joe Dwight, Daryl Frank, and Karen. 

Mattie loved reading, singing, music, nature, gardening, talking, teaching, and she loved children. 

After relocating to Cleveland, she wanted to study Christian Education and attended the following schools: Child Evangelism Fellowship, Maranatha Institute of the Bible Inc. E.T.T.A), Institute for Christian Work Bible College and Seminary, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in biblical studies. Mattie also attended: The National Baptist Congress of Christian Education, U.S.A Inc. where she became a certified instructor in Christian Education, she also studied with the Sunday School and B.T.U. Congress of Christian Education in Cleveland. Mattie taught classes there for many years. She was involved with The Canaan Educational Enhancement Center and served as president. 

As a member of Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Mattie served in many different roles. She was a Sunday School teacher, sang in the Senior Choir, a member of the Missionary Society, a Trustee, a member of The Christian Board of Education, and a member of the Mother's Board. Mattie had great love for her church family. 

Mattie leaves the following family members to cherish her memories: Sisters, Myra L. Riley- Cleveland, OH, Mariella Owens - Mableton GA, Vonita Price - Akron, OH, and Almer Price - Shaker Hts., OH and brother Charles B. Price, Honoraville, AL. Children: Maxine Joiner (Elton Sr. deceased) Daryl F. Lewis (Naomi), Karen Barclay (Rev. Andre'), daughter in-law Carrie Kennedy-Lewis. Mattie leaves thirteen grandchildren: Lynntina Joiner, Latoya Sims (Darnnell), Tabitha Shearer, Ora Kennedy, Dorese Kennedy, Joseph Lewis, Jessica Kennedy, Gregory McMichael (Linda), Noelle Marotta (Nick), Ariel Rossen, Matthew Jones (Julia). Mattie also has thirty-two great grandchildren and ten great great grandchildren. Mattie has two sisters-in-law: Rose Lewis and Edith Lewis. Two Goddaughters: Yolanda Hill and Min. Diane Roberts. Mattie has a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family left to cherish her memory. 

The following family members proceeded Mattie in death: Joe F. Lewis (husband)- Cleveland, OH, Lyvert Beach (sister)- Dayton, OH, Thomas R. Price (brother) Cleveland, OH, Willie F. Price (brother) - Honoraville, AL, O'Neal Price (brother) - Cleveland, OH, Joe L. Price (brother) - Inkster, MI, and Robert L. Price (brother) - Honoraville, AL. Joe D. Lewis (son) Cleveland, OH, Elton W. Joiner Jr. (Grandson) Cleveland, OH, Brandon J. Joiner (Grandson) Cleveland, OH, Yvonne Jones (Goddaughter) Cleveland, OH.

Grace be with you all. Hebrews 13:25, Amen.

Lesie Lee Johnson was born January 26, 1934. She was the last child born to the union of the late Deacon Felix Johnson, Jr. and Queen Ester Jones-Johnson in Jefferson County (Georgia).

She accepted Christ at an early age at Brinson Hill Baptist Church and was baptized. She was very active in her church, attended Sunday school, sang in the choir, an usher, and a member of the Baptist Youth Organization.

She attended school in Wadley and Louisville (Ga.), and graduated at Carver High. Thereafter she relocated to Chattanooga, TN to care for an aunt. While there she joined Mt. Carmel Baptist Church and served as secretary and sang in the choir, and attended Zion Bible Business College and excelled in academics, Business Adm., and Music.

Lesie met and married Albert Leon Benford on June 13, 1952. To this union three lovely children was born, Albert Leon Benford, Jr., Wanda Faye Benford and Monica Benford (deceased). After her husband return from the U.S. Army they relocated to Cleveland, OH.

She was employed at May Company (sales) and employed at Case Western Reserve University in the accounting Dept in various capacities including an Audit Clerk and specialized in accounts payable. Lesie attended Case Western Reserve University, studied accounting, voice of articulation, etc., and served on the recruiting committee. She received three awards for outstanding service. Retired after thirty years of service. Lesie also a preparer and customer service representative at H & R Block.

She joined Lee Road Baptist Church June 7, 1981 and was very active. Served on the Women’s Usher Board as president, treasurer, and parliamentarian. Chaired the Ebony Magazine Fund Drive. Served as an internal auditor of the Counting Committee, treasurer for prayer circle, member of Fidelity Missionary, served as parliamentarian. She co-chaired Women’s Day in 1993 and General Chair of Women’s Day in 1994. She was selected as Woman of the Year in 1997 and honored with her name engraved on a plaque and presented with a certificate of recognition for dedication to service and Christian mission.

She was a member of the Eldamare Street Club and served as Health and Welfare Chair (inactive), a member of the Silver Sneaker Club. She was a caring person with a smile and would help anyone in need. She gave to charities. Her hobbies were collecting angels, working in yard and flower gardening.

Her life was full and blessed. She loved her God and family beyond measure. Preceded her in death her loving devoted husband of sixty-three years of marriage; Albert Benford Sr., her son, Albert Benford Jr., siblings, Grover Johnson, John David (JD), Rosco (RC), Adele, Mazell, Claudia Mae, Booker Tyler, and loving granddaughter, Lakisha Hinton.

Lesie leaves to cherish her memories, her loving daughter, Wanda Faye Benford; four grandchildren, Dawson, Kimberly, Larry Jr., and Tiffany; eight great-grandchildren, Torrean, Jaya, Madison, MaKensie, Faith, Seth, Nava and Leah; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Lovingly submitted,

The Family

Born on August 8, 1959, in Muncie, Indiana to John and Evelyn Johnson. John was known for his caring nature and unusual sense of humor. He had a deep love for creativity and did whatever he set his mind to. He was a believer in Jesus Christ and accepted Him as his Lord and Savior.

John is a Warrensville Heights High School class of 78 alumni and proud to be a Tiger for Life. He loved the Warrensville Heights community and loved the lifetime friendships he obtained while growing up there. He often did handy work for friends, neighbors and the elderly. He also enjoyed putting

together model cars, designing plant arrangements and collected things like antique furniture, trains, cars and model sail boats. He loved animals and often adopted pets and always fed strays. He often saw the beauty in things that most people may overlook. In his earlier, adventurous years, he

briefly lived in Los Angeles, CA, Muncie, IN, and Youngstown, Ohio.

He loved to cook and earned his living in the family business, Rene’s Catering for most of his career. He also cooked for other local restaurants prior to his retirement. He served briefly in the Army Reserve. Recently, he cooked meals for his mother every day and watched over her.

John’s warm and humorous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May his memory bring laughter and comfort to those he leaves behind.

He was preceded in death by father, John Bennett Johnson Sr. He leaves to cherish his memory Mother Evelyn Johnson, Siblings: Marquetta Epps (Myron), Yolande Johnson, Jon Benet Johnson “Buggy”, and very special niece, Emerson Coleman. A multitude of Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends, too numerous to name, yet each held a special place in his heart.

Carol Gregory was born on May 11, 1965 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Mae Henry and James Gregory Sr. She was known for the loving and caring heart she had and also her faith and beliefs in God. She always stayed active in her church and love to play her gospel music. Holiday times you can count on a good meal from her, as cooking was one her favorite things to do. She was the queen of playing dominoes and was a Cleveland Browns and Cavaliers fan.

Everybody that knew her had love for her. She played a loving role in so many people lives which made them gravitate to her even more. If she ever did anything wrong she would do whatever it took to make it right. She was very family oriented and loved her children and being a grandmother. Being a grandmother gave her a chance to do things that she couldn't do with her children and that brought alot of joy in her life. As her illnesses started taking over her body, she never lost her faith in God. She taught us that God always have the last say in everything. Every battle the devil sent her way, she was able to conquer them all with God on her side. Everybody always say she was a "fighter" which was very true. When we all had our doubts about certain things she always came out on top from whatever it was she was going through. She kept fighting no matter what until November 3, 2025 when God told her she didn't have to fight anymore and her work was done. She will be truly and dearly missed by everyone. She leaves behind her children, grandchildren, brother and a host of friends and family.

Anita Bragg age 87 passed peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025. Cherished mother to her only son Robert affectionally known as Bob (Nichole) Curry. Loving grandmother to Amber Victoria and Robert lan Lane Curry and special friend to Clifford Johnson and Shirley Nobel (deceased).

Anita spent her whole life in Cleveland attending Rawlings Jr. High where she competed in vocal contests winning one of the highest ratings. While at Rawlings, she was crowned popularity queen and took the operetta lead in the production "Lelawal". She graduated from John Adams High School and went straight into the workforce landing a position as Secretary of OR/RR at UH Cleveland Medical Center until her retirement.

Anita enjoyed international travel, listening to and singing opera and gospel music, hosting card parties, visiting internet cafes/casinos and knitting.

One of the first members of Zion Chapel MBC, Anita sang in the choir and worked as the church secretary/clerk. Anita was an only child of the late Wm. Thomas Curry and Gertrude Maddox.

Barbara Edmonia Shannon-House was born on December 31, 1932, to Aaron and Earnestine Shannon in Holly Springs, MS. She was the first of six children.  She passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Proceeding her in death, are her parents, Aaron and Earnestine Shannon; twin sisters, Tolise Joveta and Eloise Juanita, brothers, Aaron Shannon Jr. and Carver Shannon.

She was raised and received her early education in Corinth, MS. After high school, she attended Spelman College in Atlanta, GA and Lane College in Jackson, TN where she received her bachelor’s degree in English/Secondary Education. She did post graduate work at the University of Kansas and John Carrol University.

She met and married her husband, Alfred (Al), while attending Lane College.  To this union, four children were born. While living in Kansas City, she taught at Grant School. After moving to Cleveland, she began teaching English at Kennard Jr. High School. Later, she was transferred to Robert H. Jamison Jr. High School and ending her career at Mooney Intermediate School. During her teaching career, she was selected as a Martha Holden Jennings Foundation Scholar. This is a Foundation that recognizes and honors outstanding teachers. After many years of successful and enjoyable teaching she retired in 1989.

Early in her retirement, her favorite job was spoiling and teaching her two grandsons, Brandon and Ryan. Also frequently visiting two other grandchildren, Steven Jr., and Staci in Florida. Being from a long line of educators she knew the importance of having an education. She and Al saw that their children finished and went onto receive degrees. She and Al loved to travel and widely traveled they did!  Besides visiting many cities in the states, they enjoyed cruising to many islands such as Hawaii and Puerto Rico. They traveled to Austria. On an Asian trip, they visited Japan, Indonesia, Maylasia, Thailand, Singapore and China. In Africa, they visited Gambia, the Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Lagos and Dakar.

She was initiated into the Beta Chi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at Lane College in 1953. She was a Pearl Soror and lifelong dedicated member of the Alpha Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha., Cleveland, OH. She was also a faithful member of Lee Road Baptist Church for over 60 years. She was a member of the Fidelity Missionary Group, served on the Counting Personnel, House and Benevolence Committees, was a member of a bible study class and worked in the church summer bible school.

She is survived by her loving husband, Alfred: children, Ronald of Cleveland, OH; Steven (Victoria) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; Rosalyn (Gregory) of Bedford Heights, OH; Kimberly (Patrick) of South Euclid, OH; grandchildren, Steven House Jr., Staci House, Brandon Smith and Ryan Smith; great-grandchildren, Eric House and Indie House, brother, Michael (Deborah) of Los Angeles, CA; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mother Lula Mae Boyd was born Lula Mae Randolph on September 18, 1939, in Campden, Alabama, to the late Ernest and Martha Randolph. She was reared in a loving family alongside her cherished sister, Mattie James, and her beloved brother, Ernest Randolph, who preceded her in death.

In 1947, her family relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where her father, with his own hands and vision, built their family home—a testament to the values of faith, perseverance, and legacy that would shape Lula’s life. She was educated in the Cleveland school system and, in time, met the love of her life, Mr. Harrison Boyd, Sr. Their union was sealed in holy matrimony on June 21, 1958, marking the beginning of a devoted and enduring partnership. Together, they established their home in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, where Mother Boyd embraced her calling as a homemaker with elegance and excellence. From this union came four children: Valerie, who preceded her in death; Harrison Boyd, Jr.; Michelle Boyd Simon (Orlando Simon); and Jumal Boyd (Demetra Boyd). Her home was her sanctuary, where love, discipline, and faith flourished.

After faithfully nurturing her family into adulthood, Mother Boyd entered the workforce, dedicating over 20 years of exemplary service as a Catering Coordinator with Honey Baked Ham. Her work ethic, warmth, and attention to detail left a lasting impression on all who encountered her.

A woman deeply rooted in her faith, Mother Boyd was a devoted member of New Sardis Primitive Baptist Church for over 50 years, where she served with humility and steadfast commitment. In the final years of her life, she united with New Life Church-NZT, continuing her spiritual journey and leaving a lasting imprint upon the ministry she so dearly loved.

On April 13, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by love, God in His infinite wisdom dispatched His angels to gently call Mother Boyd from labor to eternal rest. She departed this life peacefully, residing with her devoted daughter, Michelle, and son-in-law, Orlando.

Mother Lula Mae Boyd leaves to cherish her precious memory: her loving children, Harrison Boyd, Jr., Michelle Boyd Simon (Orlando), and Jumal Boyd (Demetra); eight grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. Her legacy is one of grace, strength, and enduring faith.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in the assurance that she now rests in regal peace, crowned in glory, and welcomed into the presence of her Lord and Savior.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; and she shall rejoice in time to come.” – Proverbs 31:25

Humbly Submitted,

The Family of Mother Lula Mae Boyd

Tonya Mixon Abrams, was born on June 5, 1966, in Cleveland, Ohio to the late David L. Mixon and Dorothy Mixon.

Tonya was as proud member of the first graduating class of the Cleveland Public Schools of Arts in 1984, where she was an honor student and a member of the National Honor Society.  Following her graduation, she joined the United States Army in 1985.  After her service, Tonya continued her pursuit of education and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Medical Coding.

A true jack of all trades, Tonya was highly intelligent and had a passion for learning.  One of her favorite pastimes was reading, reflecting her curious mind and love of knowledge.  Throughout her life, Tonya faced challenges head-on and fought against all odds with courage and determination.  As a breast cancer survivor, she showed incredible strength and resilience in her journey and comeback.

Tonya met and married Jonathon Abrams in Cleveland, Ohio in 2003. If you knew Tonya, you knew how deeply she loved her family especially her nieces and nephews, who brought her immense joy and pride.

She was preceded in death by her beloved father, David L. Mixon and mother, Dorothy Mixon, brothers, David Mixon Jr. and Henry Mixon, and sister, Angela Mixon.

Tonya Mixon passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, family and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband; Joenathan (Nate) Abrams, brothers, Reggie Mixon and Anthony Mixon and a host of nieces and nephews who brought her great joy, Shaun Mixon, Dwight Mixon, Travon Mixon, Samuel Mixon, and Krystaleeya Daniels, Anthony M. Mixon,  Bridgette R. Mixon, Joshua B. Mixon , Trinity F. Mixon and Kristian Mixon.

Tonya will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.  Her presence, kindness and spirit will never be forgotten.

Helen Edwina Jones, affectionately known as Madea, was born March 31,1921 in Memphis, Tennessee, the only child of Minnie King Jones and William Jones. 

Helen attended Klondike Elementary School and was a graduate of Manassas High School in Memphis. After graduating she held several positions which included working at a bowling alley and then moving on to domestic work for a family in which she attributed naming her first grandchild, Reaver. During WW II she moved on to work for Firestone Tire and Rubber Company.

Helen met Alex Bolton and later they became the parents of 2 daughters Marian (Sugar) and Minnie (Beanie). In 1949, Helen and her 2 daughters moved to Cleveland Ohio, where she began working for Swift Dry Cleaning. By 1961 Helen left Cleveland and moved to California where she trained and became a physical therapist.

While living in California she met Robert Esters Bess and they were later joined in holy matrimony on June 26, 1971. Helen Bess was a God fearing woman who gave her life to Christ, beginning with Smothers United Methodist Church in Memphis, TN, followed by Cory United Methodist Church in Cleveland, then Holman United Methodist Church in California. After the passing of her beloved husband in 1999, she returned to Cleveland to be closer to her family and became a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Warrensville Heights, Ohio.

Helen was preceeded in death by her daughter, Minnie Ola Brooks and her granddaughter, Carol E. George.

Helen leaves behind to mourn her passing, her daughter, Marian L. Mauldin, her stepdaughter, Hazel Kittson, 5 grandchildren, Reaver M. Jones, Reginald Jones, Mia A. Brooks, Kim Kittson Morris, Herman Brooks II, 9 great-grandchildren, Shakirra I. jones, Nicose A. Brooks, Hailey P. Carter, Zachary A. A. Brooks, Elyse Morris, Kyla Morris, Maya Morris, Xavier A. Brooks, Simone A. Brooks, 2 great-great grandchildren, Sacoya C. Williams, Kaia Brooks, 3 great-great-great grandchildren, Syeerr S. Taylor, Saige A. Taylor, Sylas N. Taylor, friends, Mae Cambell-Jones of California, Wayland and Gwen Lee Cleveland Heights, OH, Leroy and Margaret Cole of Cleveland, and a host of other cousins, relatives, and friends. Helen lived her life through 6 generations of family. We were blessed.

                                                  Lovingly submitted,

                                                             The Family

James Herbert Mayo was born on August 19, 1939, in Huttig, Arkansas, to the late James A. Mayo and the late Myrtle L. Bailey.  He later made his home in the Cleveland, Ohio area.  Cleveland also held deep family roots for James, as it was the home of his grandparents, Charles and Rena Bailey, where he lived along with his mother-those early years helping to shape the foundation of his life.

James was a proud graduate of Glenville High School.  He spent many years working at the Chevrolet plant before beginning a long and dedicated career with the Norfolk Southern and Western Railroad.  He retired as a brakeman after years of service, taking on assignments not only in Cleveland, Ohio, but also in Chicago, Illinois.

James was known for his wit and dry sense of humor.  He loved playing cards, reading and had a remarkable ability to mentally count and solve number problems-something he enjoyed sharing with those around him. He also took pride in his personal style and appreciation for quality clothing, watches, and cars.  He also loved shooting pool and was affectionately nicknamed ‘Frog” by his friends a name he earned from his strong swimming ability.

James was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Faye Gardner.

He is survived by his children: James E. Mayo; Kim M. Mayo-Bailey (Kevin), Tammy Roberts (Allen), his former spouse, Catherine Williams , two grand children, Allen Roberts Jr., and Rachel Roberts, along with several great grandchildren.  He also leaves behind extended family and loved ones who remained close despite distance and stayed connected throughout his life.

He will be remembered for his sharp wit, quiet strength, and the lasting im pression he left on those who knew him.

Humbly submitted,

The Family

Ernestine Jackson was born on May 12, 1937 in Marion, Louisiana  to Matthew  and  Leunata  Rivers,  as  the youngest of four siblings. Her parents passed away when she was age 2 or 3, and her sister Hosea (at the age of 13) devoted herself to raising Ernestine, along with their Gramma Fannie. Later, when Ollie Roberts and her sister Hosea married, Ollie  kindly accepted the responsibility of helping to raise Ernestine, and she thrived under their care. Ernestine attended grade school in the south, and the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio and she graduated from East High School in June 1955.

In August 1955 Ernestine and David Jackson married, which began from a mutual connection within the Roberts and Jackson families. Once the spark was ignited, David and Ernestine began dating, and were married after he completed his term in the Armed Forces. From this union David Lavon, Sidney Mathis,  and Robbin  Lenita  were born. David preceded Ernestine in death in 2002.

Ernestine had various jobs prior  to  her  employment with the State of Ohio at Northcoast Behavioral Healthcare, where she remained until her retirement in 2005. After retirement she enjoyed spending leisure time with friends  and  family…..the most  precious  and  priceless  being  the hours spent with her grandbabies (and she definitely had a TRIBE)!

Another one of her treasured joys was standing at the door as an usher at New Bethlehem, serving as a ‘gatekeeper’, which she continued until she could no longer participate due to health issues.

As the years progressed, and illness began to set in, she would say - I just want to hear Him say ‘Well done, My good and faithful servant’….And as her life’s work is complete, I firmly believe God hears and answers His children’s prayers, and she is at rest in His presence.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter Robbin L.Jackson; sister-in-law  Vernestine  (Floyd)  Roberts; goddaughter  Pamela  (Tyrone) Burton;  grandchildren Torray (Carmen); Dante’, Darius, DiOnna, Deja’, QiOnna,  LaShawn, Shareese, Dava, Chollee’, Sydney, Antwan, Antonio, Tremaine, Darryl, and a host of great-grands, great-great grands, with many nieces, nephews, honorary daughters, family and friends. The matriarch of this family will truly be missed.

Buna Mae Hall was born on August 13, 1933 in Williamson, West Virginia to the late Robert and Melissa Snow. She was the youngest of seven all whom preceded her in death.  Buna accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior at an early age. She attended Liberty High School in West Virginia. She met and later married Eugene Hall Sr. on July 22, 1950. Together they moved to Cleveland, Ohio where they built a beautiful life in their Union. They were blessed with seven children and lovingly raised a total of ten.

She was a devoted wife and mother and also served faithfully as a mother of Philippi Missionary Baptist Church. She was also an active member of the Women’s Ministry. She was truly a mother to all and would help anyone in need. Though short in stature, she carried a vibrant and unforgettable personality. She enjoyed family most, playing cards, shopping, traveling, going to the Casino, and loved those lottery scratch off tickets.

She was an exceptional baker, best known for her 7-UP pound cakes. She loved gospel music and her favorite song was “Going Up Yonder”. Buna was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Melissa Snow, her siblings; Booker, Jalene, Bobbie, Bennie, Pete and Mattie Lue, her children; Denise Hall, Zella Jackson(Fred), Terry Hall, and Michael Hall, and her granddaughter Ciara Jackson. Buna leaves to cherish her memory 5 sons; Eugene Hall Jr.(Cheryl), Edward Hall, Anthony Hall, Gerald Hall and Barry Hall, 1 daughter; Juanita Morris (Robert), 18 grandchildren; Eugene III, Latia, Anthony, Laleta, Edward, Arnita (Martin), Rayshaun, Zella, Fred, Michael, Sharita, Ashley, Candy, Jurmaine, Amanda, Shawn, Juanya, 1 Honorary Daughter; Deatrice Price, and a host of other loving relatives and friends.

-Buna will be greatly missed

Mother Virginia Bell Williams was born on August 20, 1931, in Elmore County, Alabama, to the late Sylvester Johnson, Jr. and Mrs. Edith Washington Johnson.

In 1946, Virginia united in marriage with Henry Jackson, also of Elmore County. Through this union, she was blessed with four sons. In 1955, she continued forward in life and later married Mack Williams of Elmore County, Alabama.

In 1956, she relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where four more children were born—three sons and one daughter. She was preceded in death by two of her children, Michael and Willie, and her beloved husband, Mack.

Mother Williams worked for many years as the Executive Housekeeper at the Park Plaza Inn, where she trained and supervised a staff of fifty. She later continued her career at the Cleveland Clinic, faithfully serving until her retirement at the age of sixty-two.

A strong, determined, and industrious woman, Virginia carried a smile that warmed every room and a kindness that reached every heart. From humble beginnings of picking cotton, she rose to become the owner of seven properties, serving as a dedicated landlord for more than fifty years.

In 1965, she joined New Jerusalem Church under the leadership of Reverend Sizemore. She found great joy in planting flowers, beautifying her properties, and embracing the fullness of family life. Cooking, cleaning, and simply being surrounded by loved ones were among her greatest pleasures.

Mother Williams peacefully departed this life on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, with her daughter and youngest son lovingly by her side. She lived with clarity and conviction, often saying, “Don’t hook me up to any machines” or “Put tubes down my throat. When it’s my time, I’m ready to go.” True to her words, she did not suffer—she left this world in perfect peace.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Joseph (Brenda) Jackson, James Jackson, Allen (Leta) Jackson, Christopher Williams, Loval Williams, and her only daughter, Christine Williams.

Her legacy is also treasured by eight siblings: Dorothy Jean Babus of Cleveland, Ohio; Margaret Burch of Montgomery, Alabama; Marion (Willie) Robertson of Detroit, Michigan; Louise Armstrong of Montgomery, Alabama; and four brothers—Sylvester Johnson, Walter Johnson, Willie Johnson, and Ronald Johnson, all of Montgomery, Alabama.

She is further remembered by two beloved sisters-in-law who were more like lifelong friends: Georgia Mae Jackson and Fannie Mae Williams; a stepson, Stanley Williams; and a dear friend known for her delicious pies and cakes, Miss Christine Peake.

Mother Williams is survived by a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends—too numerous to name, yet each held a special place in her heart.

Her life was a testimony of strength, grace, and unwavering love. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.