Memorial: Sister Eunice Williams Wiley

"I Have Fought A Good Fight"

Sister Eunice Williams Wiley

"Ma-Dear"

Alpha May 1, 1910

Omega July 18, 2004

Service Saturday, July 24, 2004

On Sunday, July 18, 2004, the Lord called his beloved servant, Sister Eunice Williams Wiley, home. She was a resident at the West Monroe Guest House, Nursing Home Facility in West Monroe, Louisiana.

Sister Wiley was born on May 1, 1910, to the late Will and Anne Williams, in Ouachita Parish. She spent a total of 94 years on the battlefield of life. She confessed her belief in Christ, and accepted Him at an early age. While functioning as an active member with the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, she was crowned Deaconess, Mother of the Mission Board, active Sunday School student, Vice-President of the Senior Choir, Choir Member, dedicated Prayer Band Member, and served in the position of "Ruth" with "Look to the East #87" OES, PHA, Eastern Star. Sister Wiley was always willing to serve others, and fed other people throughout the surrounding communities.

Her husband, Jesse Wiley, Sr., and two of her six children- Robert and Mildred (Cassey) - preceded her in death. However, her memories will long be cherished by her siblings: Hershel Williams of California; Tillie Parker and Lula Jackson of Monroe, Louisiana, four children; Jesse Wiley, Jr. (Dorothy) of West Monroe, Louisiana; Roy Wiley of New Jersey; Lucy Jackson (Andrew) of West Monroe, Louisiana and Joe L. Wiley of Shreveport, Louisiana. Seventeen grand-children, thirty-one great grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

I have fought a good fight,

I have finished my course,

I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7

Memorial: Sister Ida Mae Roberson Wiley

"And I Said, Oh That I Had Wings Like A Dove"

Sister Ida Mae Roberson Wiley

 "Maw-Maw"

Alpha July 8, 1916

Omega September 14, 2006

Service September 23, 2006

Sister Ida Mae Roberson Wiley was born to the late Fred and Easter Elmore Roberson on July 8, 1916, in Eros, Louisiana. While growing up she attended Saint John School in West Ouachita Parish. She was married to Tarry Wiley, and he preceded her in death.

Sister Wiley accepted the Lord into her life in 1958, then she began a testimonial of honest and faithful service to her God and her church. She served as Vice-President, and later President of the Senior Choir. Sister Wiley also served on the Mission Board, she was an active Sunday School member, a Pastor's Aide and Deaconess. Truly God has said, "Well Done, thy good and faithful servant."

She was preceded in death by, (1) one son, Fred James Wiley; (1) one grandson, Bobby R. Wiley; (2) two brothers, Isaac James Roberson and Clarence Roberson; (1) one sister, Inez Thomas; and (1) one child whom she mentored, Leon Young.

She leaves to cherish her memories: (5) daughters, Arleda Miles of Monroe, Louisiana, Maggie Wiley of Los Angeles, California, Bettye Moss (Rev. Jesse Moss) of Dallas, Texas, Hazel King of Gardena, California, and Lois Harris (Don Harris) of Shreveport, Louisiana; (1) daughter-in-law, Cora Wiley of Monroe, Louisiana; (2) children she mentored, Edna Cyrus and Odell Jackson both of Monroe, Louisiana; (3) sisters-in-law, Mattie Foster of Chicago, Illinois, Helen Roberson of Monroe, Louisiana and Annie M. Wiley of West Monroe, Louisiana; (28) grandchildren; (36) great-grand-children; (15) great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

My Request

I made my request to Him and He refused me not.

I waited patiently for Him, no sadness was with me

And my heart knew no pain.

Yet so quickly He came - and I was gone.

And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age.

Genesis 15:15

Memorial: Sister Margie "Peggie" Jackson Vernon and Levette Vernon

"Because There Are No Endings"

Sister Margie "Peggie" Jackson Vernon

Alpha (unknown)

Omega August 18, 1970

and

Levette Vernon

Alpha November 28, 1969

Omega August 19, 1970

Service Sunday, August 23, 1970

Death was riding the highways and claimed the lives of the Vernon Family in a head-on collision near Fort Wayne, Indian, Tuesday, August 18, 1970.

Mrs. Margie Jackson Vernon was the daughter of the late Dillie and Marania Jackson. She grew up in the Mt. Pleasant Community and was educated in the schools of Ouachita Parish. She united with the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at a youthful age and served well.

She was a 1956 graduate of Southern University and worked in the educational systems of Washington and Caldwell Parishes of Louisiana; New Mexico, Ohio, Illinois and Arizona.

She was united in matrimony to the late Levi S. Vernon. To this union two daughters were born.

Her survivors include one daughter, LaSuntha Vernon, Ft. Wayne, Indiana Hospital; three sisters, Mrs. Edith Odell, Chicago, Illinois; Mrs. Thelma Martin and Miss Odell Jackson, Monroe, Louisiana; three brothers, Mr. Hosea Jackson, West Monroe, Louisiana; Mr. John S. Jackson, Calhoun, Louisiana and Mr. Fred W. Jackson, Angie, Louisiana; several nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Levette Vernon was born November 28, 1969 in Columbia, Ohio, She departed this life August 19, 1970 at 2:30 am in the Ft. Wayne, Indiana Hospital.

Because there are no endings

In all creation's text,

Each chapter merges gradually

Into what is coming next.

And when I pause to glance beyond

My own short-sighted wall,

I see no final chapter

To anything at all.

Elizabeth Landeweer

Memorial: Brother Jesse Wiley, Sr.

"Not Gone From Memory"

Brother Jesse Wiley, Sr.

Alpha March 12, 1905

Omega April 10, 1983

Service Friday, April 15, 1983

The flowers discharge their bright Ministry of love, elaborate their seeds and die, but not until their work is done. But for man, death comes at all seasons and to all ages. Often he sends no summons before him, but float unseen on the breeze. Death comes on hushed footsteps to all.

Jesse Wiley, Sr. who departed this life April 10, 1983 was born to the union of the late Abb Wiley and Maggie Jackson Wiley in Ouachita Parish March 12, 1905. He remained in his home community Mt. Pleasant - There, he grew up and was a farmer by trade - and his work stood out for itself in such a way that he often had more calls than he could fill.

He joined Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at an early age and was a faithful member. Served as Janitor since 1949 and ever true to his duties until ill health prevailed. He ws an active member of Prince Hall Mason affiliated with Caladonia Lodge #58, Calhoun, Louisiana.

He was a devoted husband and father, a believer in scriptural admonition to "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."

He leaves to cherish his memories: a loving wife, Mrs. Eunice Wiey, West Monroe, Louisiana; three sons, Jesse Wiley Jr., West Monroe, Louisiana, Joe Lewis Wiley, Shreveport, Louisiana, Joe Lewis Wiley, Shreveport, Louisiana, Roy Wiley, Plain Field, New Jersey; two daughters, Mrs. Mildred Cassey and Mrs. Lucy Jackson, both of West Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers, J. Hue Wiley, Calhoun, Louisiana and Elvin Wiley, West Monroe, Louisiana; one sister, Mrs. Mattie Foster, Chicago, Illinois; seventeen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Poem

Not gone from memory, not gone from love,

But gone to the Father's house above

Gone where the white-robed angels move

Around the Father's throne of love;

And where no pain, or grief, can ever come

There, loved one, thou art gone.

Nina Freeman

Memorial: Brother Fred James Wiley

"There's An Open Gate At The End Of The Road"

Brother Fred James Wiley

Alpha October 11, 1936

Omega November 11, 1977

Service Sunday, November 13, 1977

Brother Fred James Wiley was born to Tarry Wiley and Ida Robinson Wiley, October 11, 1936 in Ouachita Parish of Louisiana.

He departed this life November 11, 1977 at 4:20 am at his home.

Brother Wiley joined Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at an early age, and remained a faithful member until death. He served as Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday School and a a Youth Leader.

He was married to Cora Strickland Wiley.

He leaves to mourn: a loving wife, Mrs. Cora Wiley; a daughter, Ora L. Wiley, both of West Monroe, Louisiana; a son, Bobby Ray Wiley, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tarry Wiley of West Monroe, Louisiana; five sisters, Arleda Miles, Monroe, Louisiana, Miss. Maggie Wiley, Mrs. Hazel King, both of Los Angeles, California, Mrs. Bettye Moss, Dallas, Texas, Mrs. Lois Staten, Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers, James Jackson and Earl Jackson, both of Monroe, Louisiana; one aunt, Inez Thomas, Calhoun, Louisiana; two uncles, I J Robinson of West Monroe, Louisiana and C M Robinson of Monroe, Louisiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Poem

There's an open gate at the end of the road

Through which each must go alone,

And there in light we cannot see

Our Father claims His own.

Beyond he gates our loved ones find

Happiness and rest,

and there is comfort in the thought

That a loving God knows best.

Memorial: Deaconess Minnie F. Young Wiley

"The Lord Gave, And The Lord Had Taken Away"

Deaconess Minnie F. Young Wiley

Alpha June 2, 1917

Omega January 24, 2000

Service Saturday, January 29, 2000

On June 2, 1917, prayers were answered and faith was strengthened with the birth of the first child born to the late Mager Young and Nettie Hanspard Young. They named her Minnie Fee: She was the oldest of their seven children.

She departed this life at Glenwood Medical Center on Monday, January 24, 2000.

She was educated in Ouachita Parish. She joined church at an early age and was active in many auxiliaries. She was a Sunday School Teacher, Deaconess, Usher, Vacation Bible School Teacher, Bible Instructor of the New Hope Institute First District, and Mission Worker.

She married several times to which she had two children; one daughter and one son (Justin) that preceded her in death.

Her memories will be cherished by her daughter, Minnie Pearl Belvin of Gulfport, Mississippi; one brother, Willie Young (Juanita) of Hodge, Louisiana; two sisters, Sophronia Y. Morris of Monroe, Louisiana and Lula Bell Saulsberry of Shreveport, Louisiana; three grand children, Terri Belvin Sapp (Milton) of Calhoun, Louisiana, Mary Belvin and Brenda B. McGowan of Gulfport, Mississippi; seven great grandchildren, Richard and Ezikiel of Calhoun, Louisiana, Fredrick, Kiara, Nicko, Binanca and Angelic of Gulfport, Mississippi; other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Then he said unto thee go you way, eat the fat,

and drink  the sweet,

and send portions unto them

for whom nothing is prepared:

for this day is holy unto our Lord:

neither be ye sorry;

for the joy of the Lord is your strength

Nehemiah 8:10 

Memorial: Sister Margaret Jackson Williams

"No Soul Is Left To Drift"

Sister Margaret Jackson Williams

Alpha August 21, 1944

Omega April 17, 1973

Service Thursday, April 19, 1973

Sister Margaret Jackson Williams was born August 21, 1944 to the union of Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Jackson West Monroe, Louisiana.

She received her Elementary and High School Education at Central High Calhoun, Louisiana. BS Degree Grambling College Grambling, Louisiana and further study at Northeast University. She was presently employed by the Ouachita Parish School Board at Riser Jr. High School.

While quite young she became a member of  the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church, under  the pastorate of the late Rev. I.J. Johnson. She was a faithful church worker.

Sister Williams was married to Mr. Ruben Williams and to this union two children were born. She was a devoted wife and mother.

She departed this life, April 17, 1973, 2:50 AM Glenwood Hospital.

Her survivors are a devoted husband, Ruben Williams, two daughters, Natalie and Marla Williams of Monroe, Louisiana; father and mother, Mr. Nathaniel Jackson and Mrs. Isabell Jackson Eros, Louisiana; one sister, Mrs. Dorothy Wiley of West Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers, Kenneth Jackson West Monroe, Louisiana and Jesse Jackson, Hayward, California, none aunts, two uncles and many other relatives and friends.

Poem

He will all loss replace;

With added grace.

Lay in the empty hand some gifts.

No Soul is left to drift

Unblessed upon times Sea.

Memorial: Sister Maggie Jackson Wiley

"Another Soldier Is Gone"

Sister Maggie Jackson Wiley

Alpha December 25, 1882

Omega May 22, 1960

Service Sunday, May 29, 1960

Sunday morning, May 22, 1960, about 4 o'clock AM an Angel made its flight into the home of a loving mother, Sister Maggie Jackson Wile, and sealed her lips from this world of sin, sorrow, and pain and placed her soul in a place of eternal rest after spending 77 years of service in all phases of Christian life to help falling humanity.

Sister Maggie Wiley joined St. Luke Baptist Church at an early age. Later she joined Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church under the pastorage of the late Rev. C.B. Collins. She spent many years in the Master's service; and was always willing to do anything that she felt would help others. Kindness and a pleasant smile was a part of her daily life.

She was married to the late Mr. Abb Wiley. To this union 11 children were born. She taught her children to be God-loving and God-fearing.

Those who mourn her departure are: 5 sons; Mr.'s Jesse, Tarry, Elvin Wiley of West Monroe, Louisiana; Mr. J. Hue Wiley of Calhoun, Louisiana; Mr. Genesis Wiley of Los Angeles, California. One daughter, Mrs. Mattie Foster, Chicago, Illinois; one brother, Mr. Issac (Ike) Jackson, West Monroe, Louisiana, West Monroe, Louisiana, 27 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, 18 nieces, 14 nephews, many great grand nieces, nephews and friends.

Poem

Another soldier is gone.

She fought the fight,

She kept the faith,

And now, at rest with God.

Memorial: Brother Roy Wiley

"To Everything There Is A Season"

Brother Roy Wiley

Alpha October 24, 1937

Omega September 2, 2010

Service Saturday, September 11, 2010

Brother Roy Wiley was born October 24, 1937 to the union of the late Jesse and Eunice Williams Wiley. He departed this life on September 2, 2010 at Glenwood Regional Medical Center in West Monroe, Louisiana.

He united with the Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church at an early age.

He was educated in Ouachita Parish, a graduate from Central High School. He relocated to New Jersey in 1966. He was employed at AT&T in Murryhill, New Jersey. He retired after working over 25 years.

He was united in holy matrimony to Minnie P. Williams on February 28, 1959. They celebrated fifty-one years of marital bliss. To this union four children were born.

He leaves to cherish his memories a wife, Minnie Wiley, Monroe, Louisiana; one son; Andre (Robyn) Wiley, Pistcataway, New Jersey; two daughters; Sharon Wiley, West Monroe, Louisiana; Charlotte Wiley of South Plain, New Jersey; one daughter,Regina Wiley McGee, preceded him in death; nine grandchildren; Chernae Johnson, Nathaniel and Lamar Wiley, Tyshona, Gabriella, DeAndre and Kyree Wiley, Brittany Bagley and Briana Bennett; two great grandchildren; Lamar Jr. and Akoya Wiley; a special brother-in-law; James Sutton. He is survived by two siblings; Joe Wiley, Shreveport, Louisiana and Lucy (Andrew) Jackson, West Monroe, Louisiana; three siblings preceded him in death, Jesse Wiley, Jr., Robert Wiley and Mildred Cassey; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Memorial: Sister Shirley H. Stringfellow Thompson

"Then Shall The Dust Return To The Earth"

Sister Shirley H. Stringfellow Thompson

Alpha January 26; 1951

Omega January 15, 2011

Service Monday, January 31, 2011

Sister Shirley Dean Hanspard was born to the proud parents of Curtis Lee and the late Mert Wilks Hanspard. She was the fourth child of the ten children. She was baptized under the leadership of Rev. I.J. Johnson at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church of West Monroe, Louisiana.

She attended high school at Central High School in Calhoun, Louisiana. She was employed at Long Beach Community Nursing Home and the Long Beach Memorial Hospital in Long Beach, California as a certified Nursing Assistant.

October 1968, she united in Holy Matrimony to Otis Dell Stringfellow, (one son). Later in life she married William Thompson, (no children),

She was preceded in death by her mother, Mert Wilks Hanspard; one sister, Rev. Bobbie Jean Hanspard Gholston; two brothers, Curtis Ray and Rev. Michael Wayne Hanspard.

Sweet memories will be cherished by her husband, William Thompson of Marietta, GA; son, Staff Sergeant Jerel Stringfellow (Mary); grandsons, Elnathan Stringfellow and Jaden Stringfellow of Weisbaden, Germany; father, Rev. Curtis Lee Hanspard; four sisters; Evangelist Liller Lawrence (Richard), Rev. Bertha Franklin, Rev. Johnnie Kay Hanspard, Sister Mert Denise McIntyre of Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers, Rev. Terrence James Hanspard of Long Beach; Gerry Donnell Hanspard of Calhoun, Louisiana; four aunts, Elaine Taylor, Calhoun, Louisiana, Clara Toston, Ruth Wilks, Ruston, Louisiana, Bettie Wilks, Arcadia, Louisiana; two uncles, Elton Wilks, Arcadia, Louisiana, Jerry Toston, Ruston, Louisiana, and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, relatives and friends.

Memorial: Brother Henry Allen Boyd Smith

"When Earth's Last Picture Is Painted"

Brother Henry Allen Boyd Smith

Alpha June 14, 1926

Omega September 2, 1974

Service Saturday, September 7, 1974

We know Henry B. Smith as the son of Mr. and Mrs. Johnnie Smith.

He was born June 14, 1926, and grew up in the Mt. Pleasant community.

He married Mrs. Helen Manning May 15, 1948 and were blessed with five children. He contributed much to education and the welfare of his communty.

He joined Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at a youthful age and was a very active member. His leading work role in the church was ushering.

He departed this life September 2, 1974 about 10:15 AM.

He is survived by: a devoted wife, Mrs. Helen Smith, West Monroe, Louisiana; two daughters, Mrs. Mary Harris and Mrs. Gladys Minor, Monroe, Louisiana; three sons, Clarence Ray Smith, Baltimore Maryland, Steve C. Smith, West Monroe, Louisiana and Madison Nelson, Monroe, Louisiana; a lovely mother and father, Mrs. Luevonger and Mr. Johnnie Smith; one brother, Cpt. Murry Parker, Alexandria, Virginia; one sister, Mrs. Dora Antoine, Renton, Washington; six grandchildren; many aunts and uncles, relatives and friends.

When earth's last picture is painted

And the tubes are twisted and dried,

And when the oldest colors have faded,

And the youngest critic has died,

We shall rest-and faith, we shall have it.

Lie down for an aeon or two,

Till the Master of all good workmen

Shall set us to work anew.

Memorial: Brother Johnny "Patty" Smith

"Father, We Will Miss You So"

Brother Johnny "Patty" Smith

Alpha January 30, 1906

Omega December 24, 1995

Service Saturday, December 30, 1995

Brother Johnny Smith was born to Jimmy and Nina Bowers Smith on January 30, 1906. He departed this life on Sunday, December 24, 1995 at 7:45 PM at the Summit Institute in West Monroe, Louisiana.

Brother Smith married Luevonger Hanspard in October, 1925, and to this union a son was born. Both Luevonger and son, Henry Boyd, preceded him in death.

Brother Smith has been a member of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church for many years.

Those holding dearest memories of him include a son, Murry Parker, Woodbridge, VA; one daughter, Dora Antoine, Renton, Washington; one brother, Wesley Smith, Crosby, Texas; five sisters; Ethel Pierce, Ruston, Louisiana; Charity Williams, Grambling, Louisiana; Nina Mae Zeigler, Orange, Texas; Gladys Butler and Janie McClendon, Monroe, Louisiana; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends.

Father, we will miss you so,

Yet, we do not regret seeing you go,

Because while we loved you so

We know God loves you more.

We will not be lonesome alone,

Cause it was His will to call you home.

You fought your fight and won the race,

To rest from the toils of this earthly place.

Memorial: Brother Steve Carnell Smith

"When You Pass Through Deep Water, I Will Be With You"

Brother Steve Carnell Smith

Alpha March 11, 1959

Omega July 31, 1992

Service August 6, 1992

Brother Steve Carnell Smith was born March 11, 1959 to the late Henry B. Smith and Helen Smith. He departed this life on July 31, 1992.

He was married to Earnestine Ellis on April 7, 1978. To this union, two children were born.

He united with the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at an early age.

Steve served in the National Guard for a short time in 1977.

His precious memories will always remain with his mother Helen Smith of West Monroe; two sons, Andra and Reginald Smith of Richmond, California; two brothers, Clarence Smith of Baltimore, Maryland and Madison Nelson of Morgan City, Louisiana; two sisters, Mary Harris and Gladys Smith, both of Monroe, Louisiana; a grandfather, Johnnie Smith of West Monroe, Louisiana; two uncles, Wesley Manning of Los Angeles, California and Murray Parker of Woodbridge, Virginia; three aunts, Fannie Elmore of Monroe, Louisiana, Dora Antoine of Renton, Washington and Ollie B. Burks of Los Angeles, California; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial: Sister Luevonger Hanspard Smith

"And God Shall Wipe Away All Tears From Their Eyes"

Sister Luevonger Hanspard Smith

Alpha February 16, 1903

Omega January 16, 1988

Service Tuesday, January 19, 1988

Sister Luevonger Smith was born to James (Jim) and Safronia Hanspard on February 16, 1903 and died Saturday, January 16, 1988, at 8 AM at Monroe Manor Nursing Home in Monroe, Louisiana. She married Johnnie Smith in October, 1925, and to this union a son was born. She became a member of the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at a very young age. She was faithful to her church, always present at every service unless providentially hindered from being there. The way she lived her life from day to day was an ever shining light for others to see and follow.

The memories we have for Sister Luevonger Smith will always be dear to our hearts. We should not mourn her passing, but should rejoice for our departed friend has gone to a home more beautiful than any of us have known. She gave her all to God and her family and now He has called her to be a member of His great and blessed family.

Those holding the dearest memories of her include her husband, Brother Johnnie Smith, one daughter-in-law, five grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial: Sister Leana B. Jackson Rush

"So Fair Was Her Face In The Morning"

Sister Leana B. Jackson Rush

Alpha February 15, 1922

Omega April 10, 1959

Service Tuesday, April 14, 1959

Sister Leana Rush was born February 15, 1922 to the late Mr. Charlie and Mrs. Lucendia Jackson in Ouachita Parish.

She joined the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at an early age and later united with the Church of God In Christ in the Mt. Pleasant Community and served until God called her home to rest, Friday April 10, 1959 at 11:55 P.M.

She received her early education in the Mt. Pleasant Community. She married Mr. Joseph D. Rush September 9, 1939. To this union two girls were born, Doris B. and Yvonne N. Rush. They made their home in the Mt. Pleasant Community.

Mrs. Rush was a loyal wife and a christian mother. She was always ready and willing to share and lend a helping hand to all in need.

She leaves to mourn a devoted husband, two daughters, Doris B. Rush, Yvonne R. Sparks, one sister, Mrs. Herberdean Jackson, West Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers, Mr. Alonzo Jackson, West Monroe, Louisiana and Mr. James Johnson, Oakland, California and a devoted step-father, Allen Johnson, Oakland, California; one grandchild, Jennifer D. Sparks, and a host of relatives and friends.

Poem



So fair was her face in the morning

When she bowed to the Lord and prayed,

And fair was her face in the noontime

Mid the toils and strain of the day.

Still fair and sweet in the evening

When all the tired hearts turned back to home

Then we knew she had a kind message

To cheer you and guide you on

Only trying to live, like God would have her to

As you knew her, kind and true.

Memorial: Sister Helen Faye Cole Powell

"God Hath Not Promised Skies Always Blue"

Sister Helen Faye Cole Powell

Alpha February 22, 1935

Omega March 1982 (date unknown)

Service Sunday, March 28, 1982

Sister Helen Cole Powell was born February 22, 1935 in West Monroe, Louisiana to the parents of Mrs. Helen Jackson Cole and the late Mr. Lee Cole.

She confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized by Elder Thomas Kennedy, Mt. Pleasant Church of God in Christ. She worked diligently in the church serving God and mankind as a young child. With a strong spiritual upbringing, her childhood aspirations was to "Love they Fellowman". She then united with the Piney Grove Baptist Church, West Monroe and served faithful until her illness.

She was united in Holy matrimony with Brother Eli Powell to this union six children were born.

Sister Powell leaves in remembrance: her mother, Mrs. Helen Cole of Monroe, Louisiana; two daughters, Loretta P. Myles of Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Sonja Powell of Monroe, Louisiana; four sons, Terry Powell of Seattle, Washington, Ellis Powell, Chris Powell and Gerald Powell, all of Monroe, Louisiana; one brother, Johnny Cole of West Monroe, Louisiana; six grandchildren; six aunts; three uncles; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Poem

God hath not promised skies always blue,

Flowers strewn pathways all our lives through.

God hath not promised sun without rain

Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.

But God hath promised strength for the day.

Rest for the laborer and peace for his children.

Memorial: Sister Cassandra Faye Cheffin O'Quinn

"If I Can Help Somebody"

Sister Cassandra Faye Cheffin O'Quinn

Alpha October 10, 1952

Omega October 16, 2013

Service Monday, October 21, 2013

Sister Cassandra Faye Cheffin O'Quinn was the oldest child born into the union of the late Carl Edward Cheffin and the late Rosa Mae Williams Cheffin. She was born on October 10, 1952. She departed this life on Wednesday, October 16, 2013.

She was baptized at an early age at New Jerusalem Baptist Church of Monroe, Louisiana under the pastorage of Reverend Albert Johnson. Later, she united with Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church under the pastorage of Reverend J. Preston Stephens.

After graduating from Carroll High School of Monroe, Louisiana in 1970, she received her undergraduate degree from Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana. She taught school at several locations with the Monroe City School, Lake Providence Schools and the Ouachita Parish School System. In 1995, she returned to Grambling and earned her Masters Degree in Social Work. It was then that she fulfilled the family motto: "If you need a hand-call San".

On May 24, 2005, Cassandra married Curtis O'Quinn. She was an active member of the Owl Street Neighborhood Ministry, the Eta Phi Beta Sorority and DIVA's for Christ. She also served as a food committee organizer/helper with church activities. She was very faithful with making sure others were fed. She also organized the Children's Church for Mt. Pleasant.

Her memory will be cherished by her husband, Curtis O'Quinn and daughter, Jennifer Johnson of Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers, Carl and his wife Felicia Cheffin of Silverdale, Washington and Ateya Oglesby and his wife Collette of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; one sister; Sharon Cheffin of Monroe, Louisiana; an uncle, Hershell Williams of Los Angeles, California; an aunt; Eva Carter of Monroe, Louisiana; two grandson, Karder and Konner Mason of Monroe, Louisiana; one nephew, Carrington Cheffin of Monroe, Louisiana; on god-brother, Kevin Williams of Monroe, Louisiana; two god-sisters, Kaye Caldwell of Bastrop, Louisiana, and Billie Oglesby of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; her mother-in-law, Lucille O'Quinn; brothers-in-laws, Willis Jenkins, Jimmie Ray O'Quinn, Clayton O'Quinn and Benny Ray O'Quinn; one sister-in-law, Annie O'Quinn and a host of other relatives and friends.

Memorial: Sister Lillie M. Spears

 

"He That Dwelleth In The Secret Place Of The Most High"

Sister Lillie M. Spears

Alpha September 5, 1938

Omega December 12, 2006

Saturday, December 23, 2006

Sister Lillie Mae (Ardella) Spears was born September 5, 1938 to the union of Fred and Ada Strickland in Winnsboro, Louisiana. At the age of six (6) years old, she and her parents moved to Monroe, Louisiana. She was the first born of thirteen children.

Lillie accepted Christ at the age six (6) and served him faithfully all her life. She joined the Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in West Monroe, Louisiana and remained a member until her death.

She was blessed with the spiritual voice to spread the word through song. She became a well known voice of "The Jordan Singers", a local gospel group in the late 1950's. Lillie remained a loyal member of the group for over 40 years, until her health was compromised. She departed this life December 12, 2006 at Northshore Regional Hospital in Slidell, Louisiana after a lengthy illness.

She was joined in matrimony in 1955 to Mr. Louis C. Spears of Wisner, Louisiana. To the union two (2) children were born: Louis D. Spears and Joan S. Thomas.

She was preceded in death by both parents Ada and Fred Strickland, four (4) sibling L.V. Strickland, Lee L. Strickland, and Frenchman Cooper; one sister: Bessie Lee Strickland. She is survived by one daughter; Joan Thomas of Monroe, Louisiana; one son, Louis D. Spears of Dallas, Texas; five grandchildren; Angela Jones, Vickie Spears, Tia and Tasha Gilbert all of Monroe, Louisiana; one grandson; Toriano Spears of Atlanta, Georgia; three great grandchildren, Devinity Spears, Tashayla Gilbert and Savannah Gilbert all of Monroe, Louisiana; five sisters; Cora Wiley, Alma Reed, Mary Wiley (Otis), Eloise Grant all of Monroe, Louisiana; two brothers; Cloyce Strickland (Marjorie) and James Strickland all of Monroe, Louisiana; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Memorial: Brother Donell Outley

"The Lord Is My Shepherd"

Brother Donell Outley

Alpha October 13, 1950

Omega March 20, 1974

Service Sunday, March 24, 1974

Mr. Donell Outley departed this life Wednesday, March 20, 1974 at 11:25 AM. He was born October 13, 1950 to the parents of Mr. Frank Outley, Sr. and the late Mrs. Carrie Duncan Outley.

In his early life he united with the Wood's Chapel Baptist Church. In 1970 he united with the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church and remained until death.

He attended Central High School where he graduated in May 1969.

On June 11, 1970 he entered the United States Army and on January 17, 1972 received and honorable discharge.

On August 17, 1971 he married Miss Mary Ann Young, to this union one daughter was born Miss Lawanna Sherrell Outley.

He leaves to mourn: a wife, Mrs. Mary Ann Outley and daughter, Miss Lawanna Sherrell Outley both of West Monroe, Louisiana; father, Frank Outley, Sr., Calhoun, Louisiana; five sisters, six brothers, grandfather, Albert Duncan, Calhoun, Louisiana; four aunts and four uncles, and a host of relatives and friends.

Memorial: Brother Leon Roberts

"Before You Cry"

Brother Leon Roberts

Alpha September 4, 1913

Omega April 15, 1997

Service Saturday, April 19, 1997

His birth...
To the late Warren and Ilsie Roberts a lovely baby boy was born on September 4, 1913

His Life...

Brother Leon grew up in Cadeville, Louisiana. He received his education at St. John School. Not only did he render services to his family, he was a Farmer, Woodman,and a Railroad worker.

Brother Leon confessed his faith in Chris at an early age. He united with the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church where he was a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher.

On Tuesday, April 15, 1997 at Glenwood Regional Medical Center his Sweet Spirit went to join his Savior in one of the many mansions that was promised him.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories a loving and devoted wife of fifty-eight years, Sister Frances Hanspard-Roberts; step-mother, Sister Gertrude Roberts; four children; two sons; Charles Cliford Roberts (preceded him in death), Lawrence Roberts, Monroe, Louisiana; two daughters; Ilsie Roberts and Pauline Williams of West Monroe, Louisiana; six grandchildren; Latonya Roberts, Lawrence Roberts, Kathy Walker, Tracey Robinson, Paula Williams and Nicholas Williams; six great-grandchildren; Fred J. King, Javon Walker, Joshua Alfred, Cameron Roberts, Jakia Robinson, Jamila Robinson, a host of nieces and nephews, two brother-in-laws, one sister-in-law, and a community of loving friends.

"Before You Cry"

Before you cry about me,

Just try to understand,

that I am resting safely

In the Hollow of God's hand

If I could send a message to each,

This I'd like to say...

Please now don't you cry for me.

I've reached a brighter day.

I'll be preparing for you

just as I did before.

So lift your hearts and

please don't cry..

I'll meet you at the door.

Before you cry, remember

That God alone knows best.

And He has called me onward

And with Him I will rest.

Memorial: Sister Verlee Young Mannings

"If You Could See Me Now"

Sister Verlee Young Mannings

Alpha January 29 (year unknown)

Omega March 25, 2011

Service Saturday, April 2, 2011

The Loving Journey

During the cold winter days of January many years ago, the late John Young and Tammer Cassey Young were blessed with a bundle of joy on the 29th. They named their precious gift, Verlee. She was reared in West Ouachita Parish in the Mount Pleasant community.

Having been reared in a Christian home, she accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Even though she relocated numerous times, she remained a faithful member of her root church.

She received her formal education in Ouachita and Lincoln Parishes. She graduated from high school at Grambling Laboratory, attended Grambling Normal College and received her degree in Elementary Education from Grambling College (GSU). She taught in Louisiana for a while and then relocated to Oakland, California, where she worked in industry. She met and married the love of her life, James A. Richardson. To this union a bouncing boy, James Edward "Butch" Richardson was born.

Upon returning to Louisiana, she returned to teaching and was employed by Monroe City School District at Carroll Junior High and Lincoln Elementary until she retired. She loved the Lord and her fellowman, was a people's person and enjoyed longevity of life.

She made her transition on March 25, 2011 leaving to cherish her precious memories: a son, James Edward Richardson; a sister, Dorothy Poindexter (Edward) Woodland Hills, California; grandchildren, Reginald, Rhonda, Yolanda, Corey and Michael Richardson; Marqueita, Maria, and Butch Richardson Goldman, Jamelia Pugh, Rumika Collins, and J.R. Battle; nieces and nephew, Dottie Jo, Doreen, and John Rogers Poindexter (Woodland Hill, California), and a host of cousins.