We want to remember the lives of people close to the Ecumenical Senior Center. We apologize in advance for anyone we may have omitted.
January through June 2024
Cecil Lorraine (Lo) Sims
Ms. Evon James
January through June 2023
James Willis, Sr.
July through December 2023
Jesse Tarver
Edna Carlson (ESC Founder)
Juanesta Irvine (Winnie)
Kerry Hill (Long-time ESC Volunteer)
Gracie Harris
Delroy Clark
Wanda B. Seals
Jeanne Buford
Ruthie Walker (Long-time board member)
Allamay Anderson (Long-time board member)
March 2022
Celebrating the life of one of our Ecumenical Senior Center family. We will miss Pat (Patricia) Jennings.
Elder Nathaniel Wimbley Myers Smith Obituary
We are sad to announce that on February 24, 2020, we had to say goodbye to Elder Nathaniel Wimbley Myers Smith (Kalamazoo, Michigan), born in Mobile, Alabama.
Elder Nathaniel graduated from Mattie T. Blount High School in 1961 and joined the US Air Force, where he served for 27 years, retiring on January 1, 1988, as a Vietnam Veteran – Master Sergeant. He graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1989. He then worked for the Michigan Department of Social Services.
On August 24, 1969, Elder married his “Good Thing” Mother Margaret Smith, and to this union, two sons were born. They renewed their 50th wedding vows to celebrate their lifelong reunion. His favorite saying was “I’m Blessed By The Best,” and Psalms 133 was his favorite scripture.
Many seniors referred to Elder as “Pastor,” but most of all, he loved the Outreach Ministry, where he shared the love of GOD faithfully. Elder volunteered at the Christian Resource Center and the Ecumenical Senior Center.
Ms. Jackie - ESC's Bingo Lady
The Ecumenical Senior Center lost a hero and champion this week in the passing of Jackie Wallace.
Jackie has been volunteering at the center as our Friday, Grocery Bingo caller for many years, and she has brought joy to many lives.
She was loved, and she will be missed. May you rest in peace, and we will keep your family and friends in our thoughts and prayers.
Moses Lee Walker
1940-2020
August 5, 2019
In Memory of Dr. Denise Washington
From the obituary by Bachman Hebble Funeral Service:
It is with tremendous sadness that the family of Dr. Denise Michelle Washington, age 65, of Battle Creek, MI, announced the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and church member on Monday, August 5, 2019, at Glenn Arbor Hospice Residence in Battle Creek, MI. She was born April 23, 1954, in Battle Creek, MI, the daughter of Bruce Wilbur Kerley and Allie Marie (McFall), later known as Alice Kerley.
Burial will follow at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI, with military honors.
February 21, 2019
A devoted member of the Ecumenical Senior Center for over 10 years, Ms. Key served not only as a diligent and consistent receptionist but also as a daily prayer warrior. Ms. Key would make sure each day started with prayer. During special times of need or illness, she could be called upon to add the needed prayer for healing and safety.
Ms. Key was also a staple in the yearly fashion show. As a fashion icon, she would make sure her outfit outshone them all. Ms. Key would roll down the aisle with grace and style only she could exhibit.
During the later years, as her health declined, she would make sure to send well wishes to the center on a regular basis. When she could, she would make short special guest appearances to make sure she was remembered.
We will remember her smile, her wit, her compassion, and most of all her spirit. With our deepest sympathy, we wish the family well during this time of grief. You will remain in our thoughts and prayers.
Ms. Key will be remembered as a vital part of the history of the Ecumenical Senior Center.