Obituaries
"The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living" Marcus Tulliuis Cicaro
Anna M. Jones
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On Tuesday, June 30, 2020, Anna Maria Jones, loving mother of five, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother passed away peacefully surrounded by the love and laughter of her family. She was 92 years old.
Born December 6,1927 in Karlsbad, Czechoslovakia, Anna was the oldest of three children.
Due to political unrest and the Russian invasion, Anna’s mother arranged for her escape when it was discovered that she was to be sent to a work camp. Alone and 17 years old, Anna crossed the border into Germany on the morning of her 18th birthday. Her mother and two brothers, Water and Werner, would follow one year later.
Anna eventually settled in Nuremberg, where she met and married Johnnie B. Jones, who was serving in the US Army. They became the parents of Werner, Doris, Lillie, George, Johnnie and Monika.
Anna was affectionately called Annie B. by her children, and Oma to her grands and the many other young people she welcomed into her house.
As a military wife, Anna moved several times, which included stints in Germany. In 1967, when her husband left for Vietnam, Anna drove from Fort Riley, Kansas to New Jersey with her five children, settling in Westampton where she lived until her passing.
Always independent and never afraid to speak up, Anna loved her family and took excellent care of them. She was a devoted wife and mother who was fiercely protective of her family. Anna and Johnnie B. created a home that was happy, comfortable and favored by many. They taught their children the importance of family and there was always room for anyone who needed a sense of family as well.
Besides being around her family, Anna enjoyed going to the casino, watching Law & Order and monthly phone conversations with her childhood friend who still lives in Karlsbad.
Anna was preceded in death by her parents, Aloisia and Franz, her husband of 50 years, Johnnie B. and oldest son, Werner. She is survived by her children, Doris, Lillie (Juan), George (Ginger), Johnnie, Monika (Garry), 7 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. Anna also leaves to mourn her brother-in-law William Powell (Lillie) and a host of nieces and nephews, both here and in Germany.
Anna was one of a kind and there are no words to say or describe just how much she was treasured, and what a powerful influence she was and will always continue to be in the lives of her family, and all who knew and loved her.
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Jerome A. Johnson
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Jerome A. Johnson of Burlington Township passed away on Monday, June 29, 2020.
He was born October 12, 1930 in Philadelphia, Pa. Jerome was the second of three children born to Joseph and Lucenda Johnson.
Jerry as his friends called him was educated in the Philadelphia Public School System.
In 1951, Jerome entered the United State Air Force at Samson AFB in New York. He was stationed at various Air Force Bases such as, Sheppard AFB and Biggs AFB in Texas, McGuire AFB, New Jersey, Yokota Air Station and Naha Air Station, Okinawa Japan, Harmon Air Station, New Found Land, Hickman AFB, Hawaii, Clark AFB, Philippines, Wake Isle and Johnson Isle in the Pacific Region. Jerome served one tour of duty at Bien Hoa Air Station, South Vietnam. After retiring from the USAF in 1972, Jerome traveled to Africa, Alaska, Canada, England, France, Germany, Mexico, Portugal and Spain.
Jerome worked for Cadillac Movers in Burlington Twp. NJ and later retired from Roadway Express Inc. Bensalem, Pa.
Jerome was a member of four civil and human rights organizations, the Burlington County Black Caucus, A Golden Heritage life member of South Burlington County branch NAACP, Cinnaminson, NJ. A member of the Willingboro and Vicinity Branch NAACP. A life member and State Commander of the Burlington Township Memorial Post 10143 VFW. A life member of American Legion Post 509 in Westampton, NJ.
Jerome was pre-deceased by his brother, Joseph C, Johnson and leaves to cherish his memory, sister, Mable K. Brown, nieces, Lois M. Braxton and Gloria B. Johnson, nephew, William H. Brown and a host of cousins, other family and friends.
A Walk through viewing will be held Tuesday, July 14, 2020 10AM until 11AM at the
TL Hutton Family and Friends Funeral Services, 869 Beverly Road, Burlington, NJ. Interment: BGWCD Veteran Memorial Cemetery.
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Walter Anthony Jackson
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Walter Anthony Jackson, affectionately known as “Butchie” and/or “Maleek,” was born on February 20, 1958 to the late Vincent J. Jackson and Mary L. Jackson (nee Gaines). Sadly, he departed this life on June 27, 2020 in his home surrounded by family and friends. As the third of nine children, he is predeceased by his older two siblings, Vincent, Jr. also known as “Brother” and Flora Salters (Emmanuel), also known as “Punkin” as well as a younger sibling, Estelle.
Walter was educated in the Camden School System and was a chef by trade. He worked for many years at “JR’s” restaurant, which was located in the Penn Center Inn (now known as Penn Center) in Philadelphia for most of his life. Once that restaurant closed, he worked in other notable places such as Red Lobster as well as the Willingboro School System until he could no longer physically do so. Even then, Walter was known for eating and cooking his favorite meal, STEAK!!!
Another thing Walter was known for is his sense of humor!! Walter could light up a room with his jokes, comments and impersonations!! As such, he was a very likable person, always laid back and cool with everyone. He was also known for his love of family and taking their pictures. During family events, he could be seen taking candid pictures of the family as well as asking for copies of pictures that others took.
Walter was well loved and will be sorrowfully missed.
He leaves to mourn: his daughter Myesha “Mee” and son Maleek “Booda” (Julie) Williams, as well as their mother Doretha “Ree” Williams. His grandchildren: Aviana and Maleek Evans, Zenaisa Franco, and Nijear Williams. His siblings: Isabelle “Izzy,” William “Manny” (Linda), Kevin Lamont, Albert (Lynnly), and Darrell “Duafe” (Michelle) Jackson. Also mourning are his aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, including a special friend and loving caretaker Cathy Epps.
A walk through viewing will be held Monday, July 6, 2020, 10AM until 12 noon at the TL Hutton Family & Friends Funeral Service, 869 Beverly Road, Burlington, NJ . Interment: Sunset Memorial Park, Pennsauken, NJ
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Jackson W. Kemp
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Sunrise: July 9, 1928
Sunset: June 26, 2020
Services: Tuesday, July 7, 2020 11AM
Viewing: 10AM
TL Hutton Family & Friends Funeral Services
Jackson William Kemp was born on July 9, 1928, to the late John “Babe” Kemp and the late Viola Hammond Kemp at the family homestead on Palmer Street in Riverside, NJ. He transitioned to paradise on Friday, June 26, 2020, just a few weeks shy of his 92nd birthday. Jackson grew up in the time of segregation and attended the Progress Street School. Jackson’s grandfather, John Kemp, Sr., was one of the only African-Americans in the area to have his own store during that time which afforded Jackson many advantages; however, this did not prevent him from being quick to share what he had with his friends, both black and white.
On May 2, 1950, Jackson married the love of his life, the late Helen B. Kemp affectionately known as “Peggy”, and from that marriage, the couple had (6) children: Dean, twins - Rodney (deceased) and Randall, Edward, Jacqueline and Annette.
Jackson served in the Navy during the 1950’s; and when he left the military, held various construction jobs until being disabled due to a back injury incurred while working. This back injury led him to undergo surgery in the early 70’s and was the precipitant of a life-changing experience that set him on an entirely different course. Although he had grown up in church and as an adult served as Trustee at First Baptist Church in Riverside, NJ; this one event left an indelible mark upon his soul which deepened his faith and commitment to God. One could liken it to the conversion that Paul had on the road to Damascus. Following this renewal of faith, Jackson became a life-long spiritual pillar and staple at First Baptist and eventually became Deacon and held that post until his death.
Over the course of his life, Jackson had a large appetite for living it to the fullest; and always seemed to find favor with people and make the kind of impression that one could never forget. He had a personality larger than life and was indeed a force of nature. He was always one to speak his mind and his truth whether others liked it or not. Jackson was no stranger to the art of hustling and was a master at getting what he needed when he needed to provide for his family. He was not afraid to show his sensitive side either, often being that person who cried while watching soap operas or a sad movie. He let the tears flow and his emotions show without abandon. He had a big heart and was always ready to lend a helping hand. In his later years, Jackson enjoyed going to Resorts International Casino in Atlantic City and was endearingly given the nickname of “Action Jackson” by the staff and his friends there at the casino. He was loved by many and will be missed by all.
Jackson was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen “Peggy” Kemp; his only sibling, Wilton Kemp; son, Rodney Kemp; nephew, Devon Kemp. He leaves to mourn, his children: Dean Kemp; Randall Kemp (Lisa); Edward Kemp (Betsy); Jacqueline Kemp (Michael); Annette Best (Andre); sister-in-law, Yvonne Long; brother-in-law, Cordell Wise; niece, Denise Lott; daughters-in-law: Nancy Kemp and Nancy Smalls; a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
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Alberta W. Eanes
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Alberta W. Eanes was born on March 26, 1929 in Burlington City, NJ. She was the first born child of Cora Covington.
She attended school in Burlington City, and graduated from Wilbur Watts in June of 1946. Alberta accepted Christ as her Lord and savior at a very early age. Early on, Alberta was employed as a garment worker in Ft. Dix, NJ, and later by the esteemed Peerless company of Burlington City.
She went on to work as a Nursing Health Aid, and then later as a bus aide at First Student, up until her well deserved retirement.
Alberta became a loyal & respected member of St. Mary Street United Methodist Church, where she served in various roles throughout the years, such as usher, stewardess, & as a member of the St. Mary Street United Methodist Women's Group.
Alberta was the matriarch of her beloved family. She devoted much of her life to caring for those she loved. She enjoyed cooking traditional Sunday & holiday dinners for the family, along with baking her well-remembered cakes & pies. In addition to cooking, Alberta also enjoyed partaking in her hobby of collecting customized ceramic bells, playing lottery scratch offs, as well as the occasional casino outing with friends.
Alberta was preceded in death, by her husband Willie Eanes. She leaves to mourn & cherish her memory, her loving sister Berniece Freeman, her beloved daughter Jolene A. Covington, her devoted grandson Antwan L. Timbers Sr., her five great grandchildren Antwan Jr. (deceased), Drayon, Aniya, Tai & Meilani, her caring nieces Lavette (Bett) Freeman-Utsey (Charles) of Albany,NY , LaVonne (Bonnie) Freeman of Delmar, NY, her nephews Ronnie Inge (Ann) of Ft. Washington, MD , Randy, Gary & Brian Freeman. Her 1st cousins Lorraine, Joan, & Morris Gardner...as well as a host of other cousins, great nieces & nephews. Special appreciation is extended by the family to her devoted friends, Cathy Shields & Jacquetta "Chainey" Coleman.
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Dr. Harrington Hazel
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Harrington Hazel was born on September 22nd, 1935 in Canje, Berbice, Guyana to the late Glendora and Adolphus Hazel. He was the second of four children. Harrington attended Cumberland Methodist School and studied independently for the University of London G.C.E exam, which allowed him to qualify for college admission. In 1963 Harrington married Yvonne Persaud his wife of 57 years. This union produced two sons Dwayne and Harrington II. He worked at the New Amsterdam Courthouse as Clerk of Courts before being accepted to the University of Mankato and immigrating to the United States. This was the first significant step towards his higher education.
Harrington obtained his Bachelor of Arts at Mankato State University, a Master of Arts from Southern Illinois University, a Master of Public Administration from New York University (N.Y.U) and a Doctor of Public Administration from New York University. Through the span of his professional career he served as Director of Fiscal Affairs for the State of New Jersey Board of Higher Education, adjunct Professor at N.Y.U., Manager of Programs at the Institute of International Education and the Projects Officer at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture, sponsored by the World Bank and the United Nations. Towards the end of Harrington’s career, he served as a freelance private consultant.
Harrington peacefully transitioned at home on June 24th. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Father, and Brother Reudel Hazel. He is survived by his Wife Yvonne, Sons Dwayne and Harrington II, Daughters In Law Helena and Nakia, Grandchildren Andrew, Kristen, Skylar, Bishop, Alyssa, Leah, Kaylyn, Kirrington, and Harrington III, Great Granddaughter Mi’ahana, Brother Ancel, Sister Ulah, Sisters In Law Beatrice, Ruby, and Pansy, Brothers In Law Sammy, Kenrick, and Franchot. As well as a host of Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.
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Imani Williams-Jones
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Imani Williams-Jones (Margaret) was born in Vicenza, Italy on November 12, 1966 to the late Joyce Yvette Ann Taylor and Timothy Davis. After Imani’s military parents relocated from Italy they settled in Philadelphia, Pa, where she was introduced to God at a very young age. She began to take her faith by storm and become an active member at Mt. Airy church of God. Imani attended St. Madeline Sophie school, Scotland School for Veteran’s Children. During high school, she attended Martin Luther King High School and New Brunswick Vocational and Technical High School, where she obtained her Nursing Assistant Certificate and graduated in 1984. After graduation she enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserves.
In 1986, Imani united in marriage with Terry L. Williams and birthed two sons Sidney (deceased) and Sheldon. In 1999, she united in marriage with Malachi M. Jones. Through this union, they birthed Imani Nia Jewel Jones. She was a devoted Wife and Mother until her death on June 17, 2020.
Imani obtained her Nursing degree from Charles E. Gregory School of Nursing in 1999. Throughout her medical career, she worked as a Registered Nurse, Psychiatric and Charge nurse and Phlebotomist. Because of her calling to serve others, she later attended Lincoln University to earn Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Human Services. Her service to others included working as a Counseling Supervisor at the Mentor Network, and working with disabled youth and at risk women and families. Imani received numerous professional certifications, including certificates in Abuse and Neglect, Addiction Counseling, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She obtained a position as an Evangelist at New Beginnings Church of God.
Imani founded a support group named “ Sidney’s Hope…a Mother’s Journey” shortly after her oldest son passed away in 2018. This group helped support mothers dealing with grief and loss for their children. “Sidney’s Hope” helped mothers to accept and cope with the stages of grief and loss of their children. She poured her heart and soul into her support group. Imani believed that Sidney guided her through this process in giving other mother’s a safe place to grieve.
Imani was a Woman of Strong Faith, she served others as Jesus Christ did. She was truly an advocate for the less fortunate; for the “Warrior class of people”. Imani made it her mission to extend herself to do God’s work and uplift people. She helped anyone who was broken, that needed guidance and love. She helped them revive themselves and discover God’s purpose for their lives. Imani WAS a Phoenix that rose and flew from the ashes. She was beautiful and strong and was the epitome of a self-made and Proverbs woman.
Imani leaves to cherish her memory:
Loving Husband: Malachi M. Jones; Son: Sheldon Timothy Williams; Daughter: Imani Nia Jewel Jones; Sisters: Tifany (David) Hunt and Michelle Davis; A host of family and special friends.
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Johanna C. Lighthart
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Johanna C. Lighthart formally of Florence Township passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2020 at the Virtua-Lourdes Memorial Hospital, Willingboro, NJ
Graveside services will be held Thursday, June 25, 2020 11AM at the Calvary Cemetery, 9th & Walnut St., Florence, NJ Cemetery,.
Arrangements by TL Hutton Family and Friends Funeral Services, Burlington, NJ
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Warren Ashford
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Warren Ashford formally of Burlington Township passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2020 at the Chestnut Hill Hospital, Philadelphia, Pa.
Graveside services will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2020 11AM at the Odd fellows Cemetery, Burlington, NJ.
Arrangements by TL Hutton Family and Friends Funeral Services, Burlington, NJ
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Eulah Viola Murray
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JUNE 3, 1935 – JUNE 4, 2020
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Eulah Viola Murray was born on June 3, 1935 in Mt. Holly, NJ to the late James and Nellie Murray. She was the third of ten children. She attended school in Mt. Holly and graduated from Rancocas Valley Regional High School in 1952. She worked as a nurse’s aide at the Burlington County Memorial Hospital in Mt. Holly, NJ before attending college. While working there, Eulah met one of her lifelong friends, Nina Walker.
Eulah was a graduate of Glassboro State College (Rowan University) in Glassboro, NJ with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1957. She taught grades 1, 2, and 5 in the Pemberton Township Public School System in New Jersey. She was a dedicated teacher for 42 years. She was honored with the Governor’s Excellence in Teaching Award in 1990.
Eulah attended Second Baptist Church in Mt. Holly, NJ. She accepted the Lord Jesus Christ at the age of 13 and was baptized with her two sisters, Augustina and Rebecca in February 1948. She sang in the choir as well as with three of her sisters whenever her father, who was a minister, preached at various churches. Eulah joined Christ Baptist Church in 1990, where she was a member of the Senior Choir and the director of the Children’s Choir for many years. She taught Vacation Bible School at her church each summer until she relocated to Maryland to live with her daughter. In addition to the other ministries she participated in, she loved being a part of the “Kitchen Crew” with her buddy Nina. In 2017, she became a member of From the Heart Church Ministries, where she participated in the Seniors ministry and frequently attended Noon Day Bible Study.
Her father instilled in her a love for music. She played the violin and piano. She was very artistic. She loved decorating her classroom with pieces she created instead of purchasing materials from the teachers’ store. She always wanted to enhance her students’ learning. She was also a skilled bowler and had won several trophies in bowling tournaments. She enjoyed traveling with her daughter and friends to several places, such as the Caribbean and Canada. She enjoyed relaxing and lounging at the shore, especially Myrtle Beach, SC.
Eulah went home to be with the Lord peacefully on June 4, 2020. Left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Barbara, her siblings Rebecca Morris, Patricia Hardin (Fred), Charlene House (Calvin), Elbert Murray (Nellie), her adopted sister, Marcia Haddock and adopted son, Corey Schettino; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by brothers, James and Dennis Murray; sisters, Nellie Murray, Petronia Murray, and Augustina Pittman.
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Arthur Reynolds Crawford, Jr.
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Arthur Reynolds Crawford, Jr, was born on November 6, 1929 in Ellenton, South Carolina, to the late Ruth Bush and Arthur R. Crawford, Sr. His only sister Albertha Andrews preceded him in death.
As a young child, Brother Crawford moved to Savannah and was educated in the Savannah Georgia School System. He graduated from Cuyler Beach High School in 1948. Immediately after high school, he joined the United States Army.
While in the U.S. Army, Brother Crawford engaged in numerous sporting activities. He was an exceptional pool player, he loved to box, and he took pride in coaching his units’ basketball team. He retired from the military with 21 years of honorable service. Sergeant Crawford received the Bronze Star Medal and was also awarded the Expert Rifleman Medal. During his time in the service, he learned to speak several languages including Vietnamese.
In 1954, he married the love of his life Bernice Elizabeth, who preceded him in death 18 months ago. They grew up together in Savannah. While Brother Crawford was in the United States Army, he and his wife Bernice traveled together around the country. From this loving relationship, they had four children: two sons, Maurice and Dennis and two daughters, Michelle and Linda. Maurice preceded him in death.
After the family moved to Willingboro, NJ, Brother Crawford accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior and the family began attending Delaware Valley Baptist Church. Then in 1975, he joined Bethel A.M.E. Church in Beverly, New Jersey. He was a great man of faith and served faithfully in various ministries: Pastor’s Aide; Steward; Sunday School Teacher and Lay Speaker. He was committed to serving under Pastor Margaret A. Bailey and the members of Bethel A.M.E. Church until his health failed.
A.R.C. as his wife affectionately called him was a loving and devoted husband for 64 years. He loved his children and he worked hard to provide for them with his very best. One of Brother Crawford’s pastimes after retirement was watching baseball and basketball. He was an avid sports fan. His favorite teams were the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Private Life Celebration services will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2020.. Family and friends may do a walk through view on Friday, June 19, 2020 from 5PM until time 8PM at The Faith Deliverance Worship Center, 1304 N. Rt. 130, Burlington, NJ Interment: Monday, at The BGWCD Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Arneytown, NJ. Arrangements by, TL Hutton Family & Friends Funeral Services, Burlington, NJ
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Louise Ormond
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Louise Ormond, age 82 of Burlington Twp. NJ passed away on Thursday, June 4, 2020 at the the Virtua-Lourdes Hospital In Willingboro, NJ.
Louise was born in Trenton, NJ and raised in Bristol Pa. Louise was educated in the Bristol Township School System and graduated from Bristol Township High School.
Louise was employed for over 50 years as an Operating Room Technician at the Lower Bucks Hospital in Bristol Pa.
Louise leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and devoted husband of 56 years, Lardner Ormond, daughter, Nichele Ormond of Burlington Twp., sister, Roslie Sapp of Burlington Twp., nieces, Gina Currington, Arlene Drayton and Denise Smith, nephews, Charles Currington and Norman Drayton and a host of other relatives and friends.
Family and friends may view, Thursday, June 18, 2020 6PM until 7PM at the TL Hutton Family and Friends Funeral Services, 869 Beverly Road, Burlington, NJ. Interment: BGWCD Veteran Memorial Cemetery, Arneytown, NJ
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Charles Leroy Gardner
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On June 18, 1954 at St. Agnes Hospital in Philadelphia, Charles Leroy Gardner was born to Daniel and Mildred Gardner. He was a beautiful addition to their already growing family.
From an early age, Charles showed a keen interest and talent for mathematics and science. He graduated from South Philadelphia High School and then went on to attend St. Joseph’s University. His desire was to attend medical school.
His plans where intercepted when he began dating a beautiful “fox” from the neighborhood named Jessica Dunn. While they both knew each other from the neighborhood, they fell in love and started dating in 1976. Their love blossomed quickly and they were married on May 7, 1977. In October of that year, they welcomed their first child, a girl, Janine Yvette. They welcomed their second child, a boy, Marques, three years later.
Around 1977-1978, Charles began what would be a lifelong career in public transportation. Starting as a van driver at Wheels Incorporated, he later went on to work at SEPTA. He rose through the ranks from being a scheduler to an administrator. He retired after 29 years of service. For all who knew him, Charles was a skilled handyman. He would fix anything from a radio to renovating entire homes, all with a professional’s craftsmanship.
Charles gave his life to Jesus Christ in 1977. He was baptized at Nineteenth Street Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Senior Pastor Reverend Dr. Charles Walker. This began Charles’ deep devotion and passion for biblical study and teaching. From 1995, he was a member of Abundant Life Fellowship and was active as a Sunday School Teacher.
On June 7, 2020 (11 days shy of his 66th birthday),Charles was called home to be with the Lord. He was preceded by his parents, Daniel and Mildred, and his sister Aurelia Robbins.
Charles is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jessica, his two children, Janine and Marques, his siblings, Daniel, Francis, Janet, Russell, Bruce, Clifford, Maurice, Michael, and James, his sister-in-laws Renee Stevenson, Carol Sapp, Marlene Brown, Angie Gardner, brother-in-laws, Demetrius Dunn and Pastor Anthony Stevenson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
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Deaconess Emeritus Odears Virginia Wilkins Smith
OBITUARY
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Odears Virginia Wilkins was born on January 28, 1930 to the late Deacon Robert A. Wilkins and Anne C. Williams in Cheriton, Virginia. Our servant of God was called to Glory in the early evening on Wednesday, June 3, 2020.
Odears was baptized in 1939, at St. John’s Baptist Church in Camden, NJ under the spiritual leadership of the late Reverend G. D. Griffin.
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Odears returned later to Cheriton, Virginia to complete and graduate from North Hampton County High School in Machipongo, Virginia. After high school she was accepted to a HBCU – University of Maryland of Eastern Shore. Odears earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education.
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Odears was married to her soul mate the late Deacon Lafayette N. Smith, Sr. on July 5, 1953 at the African Baptist Church in Cheriton, Virginia. This union of thirty-eight years was blessed with love and happiness. The Lord blessed their marriage with three beautiful children Lafayette Jr., Kevin and Rhunette.
Odears travelled with her family to places as Hempstead, NY, Washington, D.C., Paris, France, Pease AFB Portsmouth, NH, Shaw AFB Sumter, SC. Odears moved with the family to Moorestown, NJ after the late Deacon Lafayette N. Smith, Sr. retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1969.
Odears’ was employed for 32 years at F. W. Woolworth in the Cherry Hill Mall as a supervisor in the candy department. Odears spiritual walk continued at Second Baptist Church in Moorestown, NJ where she served for 50 years. Odears served with dedication and faithfulness as a Primary B Sunday School teacher, a member of the Gospel Chorus, Senior Choir, Deaconess, Altar Guild, volunteered for Vacation Bible School, Church bowling league and enjoyed Prayer meeting and Bible Study.
Deaconess Smith served under the late Reverend David Minus, Jr., Reverend Dr. Dennis E. Norris, Sr., Reverend William D. Willis, Interim Pastor, Reverend Casey Kimbrough, Reverend Dr. Coleman Wallace, Sr., Reverend Curtis A. Haynes, Sr. and the current Interim Pastor, Reverend Thomas N. Holmes.
Odears’ hobbies included her passion for spending time with the family, such as, birthdays, graduations, weddings, sporting events, cookouts, and family games. Odears was a role model, mentor and a mother to many with her sweet, gentle and nurturing spirit. She demonstrated her agape (unconditional) love in her daily walk. She lived her life through her favorite scripture Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Odears had excellent healthcare of services rendered by two women gifted by God, Agripina (Pina) Aquino and Nerly Cenido THANKS BE TO GOD!
Odears is survived by her two sons Deacon Lafayette N. Smith, Jr. of Moorestown, NJ and Kevin G. Smith of Deptford, NJ; one daughter, Deaconess Rhunette G. Lovelace and son-in-law Trustee Richard A. Lovelace, Sr.; four grandchildren, Richard A. Lovelace, Jr., Ashley Nicole-Viola Lovelace, Natalie Denise Smith and Serena Simone Smith. In addition, she proudly claimed Jayla and Jasmine George as her grandchildren. One brother, Hollis A. Wilkins, Sr. of Prosper, TX; two nephews Hollis A. Wilkins, Jr. of Prosper ,TX and Thomas E. Keyes, Jr.(Jill) of Moorestown, NJ; one niece, Mary Ann Barabino of Toledo, OH; a special friend Beulah Barton of Leesburg, FL; two godchildren Shenay Harris and Anthony Bell and a host of many relatives and friends.
Lovingly submitted,
The Family
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Randolph (Randy) Williams
It was a beautiful fall day November 10, 1947 when Randolph (Randy) Williams was born in Charleston South Carolina to Mamie Bowman. Their mother raised Randy and his brothers in the Baptist Church. Randy loved the Lord and focused his spiritual growth in his later years. His character reflected the fruit of the Holy Spirit. He was patient, kind, gentle, and full of joy all his life. In 1965 he graduated from Burke High School in Charleston, South Carolina. Upon graduation Randy joined the United States Army and was stationed at the Army Missile Base in Pine Hill, NJ where he received numerous accommodations and completed several years of Reserve duty.
Randy moved to Philadelphia, PA and began his professional career as a Construction News Reporter for McGraw Hill Publishing Company for twenty years. He then spent several years in the Underwriting Department with Insurance Company of North America. This motivated him to return to school where he obtained his Insurance License and began working as an Insurance Agent at the Allstate Insurance Agency in Willingboro, NJ. Eventually, Randy became co-owner with his co-worker John Gregory (who proceeded him in death). They shared the business under the banners of both Gregory & Williams and Williams & Gregory. Randy and John worked diligently to serve the Burlington County Community.
Randy met the love of his life Linda at a part-time job (while still working their full-time jobs in insurance) where they worked side by side, waiter and waitress. Linda would become his appendage and he the amorousness man that defined their love. They were married on Saturday, May 18, 1974. For forty –six years he was passionate about his wife. He never allowed anyone to come before her or between him and her.
Randy was greeted in heaven by his mother Mamie, brothers James and Albert, and his beloved uncles and aunts Tom and Louise Flowers and Willis and Rosa Reed, and treasured uncle-in-law George (Jeff) Jefferson.
He is survived by his loving wife Linda of forty-six years, his two sons Antoine (Teresa), and Trent, (Kendra); his grandsons Antoine Jr. and Brandon (Nazia Maldonado) and grand-daughters, Mia and Celina Neris; Mother in-law, Marge Stocks, Father-in-law, Romeo (belated Eula) Bullock, sisters-in law Annette Harris, Connie (Dwight) Steel, Paulette Strawbridge, Gina (Gerod) Stukes; brothers-law Lawrence Harris, Kenny Bullock, Romeo Jr. (Thressa), Keith (Deene) Bullock, and Kevin (Sonja) Bullock, his God-children Charles Wright, Chezerah and Kai Bowleg and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and love ones.
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