Obituary
Mrs. Barbara K. (Frey) Robinson Celebration of Life
Mrs. Barbara K. (Frey) Robinson entered into a peaceful rest at age 79 on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at her home in Kentwood, MI, where she was surrounded by her loving family.
Celebrating The Life of Joseph R. Drake
Joseph Ronald Drake was born to Joseph Nathaniel Drake and his wife Carrie Drake on July 18, 1941, in Hughes, Arkansas. Known to many as "Joe, Jr." Joseph was the third child and first son born to this union. Joe's parents were devout believers in God who raised him in church. His family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan when he was a young child and lived on the West Side of the city.
Carrie Meek, Pioneering Black Former Congresswoman, Dies
Fort Lauderdale, FL. (AP) Carrie Meek, the grandchild of a slave and a sharecropper's daughter who became one of the first Black Floridians elected to Congress since Reconstruction, died Sunday. She was 95.
Reaction To Death Of Lee Elder, 1st Black Golfer At Masters
Reaction to the death of Lee Elder, the first Black golfer to play at the Masters:
Dr. Gerald and Gwen Dawkins First Chance Scholarship
Back in the 60s when I was in the seventh grade I remember when I owed my teacher ten cents on a baseball bet that I lost. Yes, this was the beginning of my vice, betting on sports. When I went to pay him and yes it took a day or two because I didn't have the money to cover the bet, he told me to keep it and give it to someone who needed it more and remember the lesson to always help others when you get the chance. Well, the first person I helped was myself as I bought me some cake at lunch. We were poor but we were not eligible for the free lunch program.
Alisa Roberta Thomas Passes
At age 49, Alisa Roberta Thomas, a beloved child of God, returned home to her father on Wednesday, August 25, 2021, at her residence in Grand Rapids, Michigan surrounded by her family, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Kenneth Leon Reynolds Celebration of Life
Kenneth Leon Reynolds was born on an Air Force Base in Armarillo, Texas to on May 13th, 1966 to Bend and Barbara Reynolds. After his father was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force. Kenneth was 13 months old when the family returned to Michigan.
The Paved Journey of James Edward McClain
The Jim McClain story began February 4, 1931 in Union Springs, Alabama. He was the son of Moe Calhoun and Iveain Williams.
Willa Mae Pharms Passes
After a long life characterized by deep dedication to her family and community and as a fountain of faith, Willa Mae Pharms passed away at noon on Sunday, August 1, 2021. She was at home supported by the prayers of many and surrounded by her loving family.
Biz Markie, Pioneering Beatboxer And 'Just A Friend' Rapper, Dies At 57
Legendary Rapper Biz Markie was born Marcel Theo Hall and a larger-than-life hip-hop figure, has died at the age of 57. Known widely for a career spanning back to 1986, Hall went on to become a beloved cultural figure later in life, celebrated for his spirited personality as much as his massive 1989 hit, "Just A Friend." His death was confirmed by his manager, Jenni D. Izumi.
Celebration of Life: Leatha Louise Harris
Leatha Louise Harris, age 70, was born in Gary, Indiana to Leonard and Ruby Bassett, departed this life Tuesday, July 27, 2021. Leatha was a resident of Grand Rapids, Michigan where she married and had a talented son, Brandon Harris. Leatha was the ultimate teacher.
Obituary for Julia Groce
JuliaMarie Groce, born on March 17th, 1943 passed peacefully on Friday, July 9th inher home at the age of 78.
Franklin "Frank" Brown Passes
Franklin (Frank) Brown (of Grand rapids, MI) departed this life on June 10th, 2021 at the age of 87.
Celebrating the Life of William (Sweedie) Buck
William was born to the parents of January and Helen C. Buck (who have both preceded him in homegoing) on July 1st 1952 in Crenshaw, Mississippi.
Gerald D. Dawkins Passes
We are saddened to announce the loss of Dr. Gerald Dawkins. Dr. Dawkins, working as one of the top educators in the country, began his career as a teacher and counselor with the Grand Rapids Public Schools and eventually becoming Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services and then Chief of Staff.
Lynwood Rachford Stewart Sr. Passes
Lynwood Rachford Stewart Sr. aged 93, entered his heavenly home after a short battle with Covid-19 at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids on December 28, 2020.
Wesley A. Jones Passes
Friends and family remember Wesley Jones for his kindness, loyalty and sense of humor. In West Michigan, he is recognized for his expertise in construction and engineering. He is known for his construction projects at Spectrum Health, GVSU and EPCOT Center at Walt Disney World just to name a few.
GRCC Honors Life, Legacy Of Journalist Sekou Smith With 2021 Distinguished Alumnus Award
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Grand Rapids Community College alumnus Sekou Smith's life was cut short by COVID-19, but family members say they want graduates to be inspired by his passion for helping others succeed.