Memorials
Serving the Michiana Community Since 1964
This page is dedicated to honoring the memories of family members who have passed away.
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Clyde Alford
Birth Date:
1934-04-06
Deceased Date:
2020-04-01
Obituary:
Clyde Lee Alford, 85 years old, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at Dupont Hospital in Fort Wayne, IN. He was born April 6, 1934, in South Bend, IN to the late Odessa Alford and Mabel (Davidson) Alford.
Although never a regular church-goer, Clyde accepted Christ as his Savior under the leadership of his “adopted” son, Rev. Bill McGill. During his later years, he always enjoyed attending services at Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of his brother, Bishop Donald L. Alford, Sr.
Clyde was a veteran and served in the United States Army from 1956 until he was honorably discharged in 1959. It was during this time that his passion and affinity for baseball was honed. He traveled the country as part of a military league, and continued to play minor league baseball with the South Bend Globetrotters for many years.
Clyde was united in marriage in 1962 in South Bend, IN to Evelyne Delores Thomas. They remained united in matrimony until her death on November 25, 2011. They have 3 adult children, Stephanie Denise Thomas, Clyde Christopher Alford, and Leslie Evelyne Alford.
Clyde graduated from Washington High School in South Bend, IN, and received an Associate’s Degree from Holy Cross College, and on June 30, 2019, he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Indiana University.
Clyde and Evelyne were founding members of the Guys & Dolls social club in South Bend since 1968 up to the 1980's. They developed lifelong friendships with many of these members.
Clyde was an avid golfer, and joined the Par Putters Golf Club in South Bend in the early 1970’s. He was also a lifelong member of the Par-Tee Golf Club in Fort Wayne, and continued to support the club even after his health would no longer allow him to play. He happily introduced the game of golf to his son, daughter, and several nephews.
Clyde and Evelyne and their children re-located to Fort Wayne from South Bend in 1972. Clyde retired from the United States Postal Service as a Director of Operations in 1989, but he didn’t stay idle in retirement. In 1992, Clyde started ATBS (Alford Tax & Business Solutions), and worked as a tax accountant for 20 years. It was during this time that his strong sense of community began to manifest – he helped many individuals and entrepreneurs through his involvement with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and Women’s Enterprise (a business development program for up and coming entrepreneurs).
Clyde is survived by children Stephanie Thomas, Clyde Christopher (Mary Kay Solomon) Alford, and Leslie Alford; one brother, Bishop Donald L. (Mary) Alford, Sr. of South Bend, IN; two sisters, Delores Sledge-Campbell (William Campbell) of Riverside, CA and South Bend, IN, and Janice Marable of South Bend, IN.
In addition, “Uncle Clyde”, “Pop-Pop”, “Dad”, “Grandpa” is survived by a host of close friends, loving nieces and nephews, ‘adopted’ children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Evelyne D. Alford, parents Odessa Alford and Mabel (Davidson) Alford, and siblings Calvin Otis, Robert and Odessa, Jr. Alford, Dorothy Vaughn, and Joan Baber.
Other than his family and friends, Clyde’s lifelong passion was sports – he loved baseball, (The Chicago White Sox), football (University of Notre Dame and the Chicago Bears), and golf. His soft, laid-back demeanor, loving spirit and strong character will be missed by all who knew him.
Clyde Lee Alford, 85 years old, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2020 at Dupont Hospital in Fort Wayne, IN. He was born April 6, 1934, in South Bend, IN to the late Odessa Alford and Mabel (Davidson) Alford.
Although never a regular church-goer, Clyde accepted Christ as his Savior under the leadership of his “adopted” son, Rev. Bill McGill. During his later years, he always enjoyed attending services at Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of his brother, Bishop Donald L. Alford, Sr.
Clyde was a veteran and served in the United States Army from 1956 until he was honorably discharged in 1959. It was during this time that his passion and affinity for baseball was honed. He traveled the country as part of a military league, and continued to play minor league baseball with the South Bend Globetrotters for many years.
Clyde was united in marriage in 1962 in South Bend, IN to Evelyne Delores Thomas. They remained united in matrimony until her death on November 25, 2011. They have 3 adult children, Stephanie Denise Thomas, Clyde Christopher Alford, and Leslie Evelyne Alford.
Clyde graduated from Washington High School in South Bend, IN, and received an Associate’s Degree from Holy Cross College, and on June 30, 2019, he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Indiana University.
Clyde and Evelyne were founding members of the Guys & Dolls social club in South Bend since 1968 up to the 1980's. They developed lifelong friendships with many of these members.
Clyde was an avid golfer, and joined the Par Putters Golf Club in South Bend in the early 1970’s. He was also a lifelong member of the Par-Tee Golf Club in Fort Wayne, and continued to support the club even after his health would no longer allow him to play. He happily introduced the game of golf to his son, daughter, and several nephews.
Clyde and Evelyne and their children re-located to Fort Wayne from South Bend in 1972. Clyde retired from the United States Postal Service as a Director of Operations in 1989, but he didn’t stay idle in retirement. In 1992, Clyde started ATBS (Alford Tax & Business Solutions), and worked as a tax accountant for 20 years. It was during this time that his strong sense of community began to manifest – he helped many individuals and entrepreneurs through his involvement with SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and Women’s Enterprise (a business development program for up and coming entrepreneurs).
Clyde is survived by children Stephanie Thomas, Clyde Christopher (Mary Kay Solomon) Alford, and Leslie Alford; one brother, Bishop Donald L. (Mary) Alford, Sr. of South Bend, IN; two sisters, Delores Sledge-Campbell (William Campbell) of Riverside, CA and South Bend, IN, and Janice Marable of South Bend, IN.
In addition, “Uncle Clyde”, “Pop-Pop”, “Dad”, “Grandpa” is survived by a host of close friends, loving nieces and nephews, ‘adopted’ children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Evelyne D. Alford, parents Odessa Alford and Mabel (Davidson) Alford, and siblings Calvin Otis, Robert and Odessa, Jr. Alford, Dorothy Vaughn, and Joan Baber.
Other than his family and friends, Clyde’s lifelong passion was sports – he loved baseball, (The Chicago White Sox), football (University of Notre Dame and the Chicago Bears), and golf. His soft, laid-back demeanor, loving spirit and strong character will be missed by all who knew him.
Mike Marable
- May 20th, 2022
Missing you Unc!
Elder James Chandler
Birth Date:
1941-07-01
Deceased Date:
2022-03-10
Obituary:
Obituary
Elder James Ira Chandler passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 10, 2022, at home surrounded by his family in South Bend, Indiana. Elder Chandler was born July 1, 1941, to George Edward and Effie Chandler in Villa Ridge, Illinois.
He attended Love Joy Middle School and Mounds Douglas High School in Villa Ridge. In February 1960 he began his career at Inland Steel in Gary, Indiana, and worked as a foreman until his retirement in 1991. He was the owner of Chandler Painting and specialized in residential interior and exterior painting.
On December 15, 1961, he, and Betty Jean (Williams) were united in Holy matrimony. To their union, two children were born: Edward Maurice and Jan Michelle.
James confessed his hope in Christ at the AME Church in Villa Ridge, Illinois, and later attended Metropolitan AME church in East Chicago, Indiana. In 1991, he dedicated his life to Christ at Friendly Church of God in Christ and was ordained an Elder in 1999. Elder James Chandler was mentored in ministry by Pastors L.C. Baker and Louis Charles Baker.
At Friendly Church of God in Christ, now renamed ICCM, he served many years wherever he was needed. He served as an usher, Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School teacher, Deacon, Elder, and Men’s Day coordinator. Because of his generous spirit, he was named ‘Father Abraham’ by the children of the ministry. He ensured all children received gifts during holidays.
After Elder Chandler relocated to South Bend, Indiana, he continued to serve God and the ministry of Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Donald L. Alford Sr. He taught the Men’s Sunday School class and was active in the Elder’s ministry.
As an Elder in the Fresh Oil District, he served as District Sunday School Superintendent. In the Fourth Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, Indiana North Central (INC) he served as Vice-Chairman of the Pastor’s and Elder's Council.
Elder Chandler loved studying the word of God and completed multiple online Bible classes through Hagee Ministries. He believed all Christians, especially those serving as Ministers, should ‘Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15’
When Elder Chandler was not studying or preparing a message, he enjoyed watching sports, especially any Chicago team. Elder Chandler loved his family and was willing to make sacrifices to ensure their needs were met.
Elder James Chandler is preceded in death by his parents, George Chandler and Effie Dawson; siblings: Wardell, George, Robert, and Fredia; along with his son, Bishop Edward Maurice Chandler, and grandson/nephew, Melvin Williams-Marable.
He leaves to cherish his memories a wife, Mother Betty Chandler; daughter, Missionary Jan (Deacon Steven) Marable, all of South Bend, Indiana; granddaughter, Ashley (Brandon) Rouse; four great-grandchildren: Amaya, Brandon Jr., Ava, and Bryson of Mishawaka, Indiana; along with one brother in law, Melvin Williams; 3 sisters-in-law: Marilyn Chandler, Helen Chandler, and Joan Williams; three godsons: Elder Mark Scott, Elder Patrick Williams, Elder Keith Harris; five goddaughters: Donna Watts, Felecia Triplett, Pam Williams, Ravinia Mosley, Andria Wilson; and additional nieces, nephews, and extended family.
But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing the Lord’s praise,
for he has been good to me.
Psalm 13:5-6
Obituary
Elder James Ira Chandler passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 10, 2022, at home surrounded by his family in South Bend, Indiana. Elder Chandler was born July 1, 1941, to George Edward and Effie Chandler in Villa Ridge, Illinois.
He attended Love Joy Middle School and Mounds Douglas High School in Villa Ridge. In February 1960 he began his career at Inland Steel in Gary, Indiana, and worked as a foreman until his retirement in 1991. He was the owner of Chandler Painting and specialized in residential interior and exterior painting.
On December 15, 1961, he, and Betty Jean (Williams) were united in Holy matrimony. To their union, two children were born: Edward Maurice and Jan Michelle.
James confessed his hope in Christ at the AME Church in Villa Ridge, Illinois, and later attended Metropolitan AME church in East Chicago, Indiana. In 1991, he dedicated his life to Christ at Friendly Church of God in Christ and was ordained an Elder in 1999. Elder James Chandler was mentored in ministry by Pastors L.C. Baker and Louis Charles Baker.
At Friendly Church of God in Christ, now renamed ICCM, he served many years wherever he was needed. He served as an usher, Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School teacher, Deacon, Elder, and Men’s Day coordinator. Because of his generous spirit, he was named ‘Father Abraham’ by the children of the ministry. He ensured all children received gifts during holidays.
After Elder Chandler relocated to South Bend, Indiana, he continued to serve God and the ministry of Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Donald L. Alford Sr. He taught the Men’s Sunday School class and was active in the Elder’s ministry.
As an Elder in the Fresh Oil District, he served as District Sunday School Superintendent. In the Fourth Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, Indiana North Central (INC) he served as Vice-Chairman of the Pastor’s and Elder's Council.
Elder Chandler loved studying the word of God and completed multiple online Bible classes through Hagee Ministries. He believed all Christians, especially those serving as Ministers, should ‘Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15’
When Elder Chandler was not studying or preparing a message, he enjoyed watching sports, especially any Chicago team. Elder Chandler loved his family and was willing to make sacrifices to ensure their needs were met.
Elder James Chandler is preceded in death by his parents, George Chandler and Effie Dawson; siblings: Wardell, George, Robert, and Fredia; along with his son, Bishop Edward Maurice Chandler, and grandson/nephew, Melvin Williams-Marable.
He leaves to cherish his memories a wife, Mother Betty Chandler; daughter, Missionary Jan (Deacon Steven) Marable, all of South Bend, Indiana; granddaughter, Ashley (Brandon) Rouse; four great-grandchildren: Amaya, Brandon Jr., Ava, and Bryson of Mishawaka, Indiana; along with one brother in law, Melvin Williams; 3 sisters-in-law: Marilyn Chandler, Helen Chandler, and Joan Williams; three godsons: Elder Mark Scott, Elder Patrick Williams, Elder Keith Harris; five goddaughters: Donna Watts, Felecia Triplett, Pam Williams, Ravinia Mosley, Andria Wilson; and additional nieces, nephews, and extended family.
But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.
I will sing the Lord’s praise,
for he has been good to me.
Psalm 13:5-6
There are currently no tributes.
Mother Betty Chandler
Birth Date:
1940-06-29
Deceased Date:
2022-05-31
Obituary:
Obituary
Her story is one full of LOVE. A special, make your heart happy love and a smile that could brighten the darkest day. Her legacy is one of family, hope, and encouragement. To know Mother Betty Jean Chandler is an experience that leaves an imprint on your heart forever.
It was a wonderful summer day in Memphis when a ray of sunshine entered the world. June 29, 1940 John and Rosie Lee Williams were beyond excited to welcome their baby girl. She was adored by her parents and sister, Doris, and brother John.
Mother Chandler made her transition on Tuesday May 31, 2022 surrounded by her family.
She would often share fond memories of her childhood including playing outside, especially swinging! She enjoyed spending time with her family and three friends Bobbie Jean, Maude, and Marva. Mother Chandler graduated from Melrose High School in 1958. She attended National School of Businessin Tennessee, and Harris Teacher College, in St. Louis.
1961 was a monumental year for Mother Chandler. She moved to East Chicago. She was eventually introduced to her future and beloved husband, James. They were married December 16, 1961.Their love began a wonderful family legacy through their children Edward Maurice and Jan Michelle.
Mother Chandler’s love of God was evident and impossible to ignore. She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior in 1968 at Friendly Church of God in Christ, now renamed Inspirational Community Center Ministry. She loved serving as an usher both in her local church under the leadership of Pastors L.C. and Louis Charles Baker and the Zion District. After relocating to South Bend, Indiana; Mother Chandler continued to serve God and the ministry of Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Bishop Donald L. Alford Sr., onthe Mother’s Board.
She served the Lord and her church with all her heart She found the most encouragement in reading the Word of God. The Bible was her most comforting possession. Mother Chandler shared biblical wisdom with anyone she came into contact. Her ongoing statement was “watch as well as pray”.
During her professional career, Mother Chandler worked at St. Margaret Hospital becoming the first Black in Central Services. She also worked at Queen Anne Candy in Hammond, IN; often joking she ate more candy than she made. Mother Chandler was a teacher at heart in e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g she did. She was a pre-school teacher at Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Indiana, and a head teacher with the Development Training Center in Gary, Indiana.
Mother Chandler exhibited a wonderful mothering and godly spirit. She was surrogate mother to so many, exemplifying the epitome of encouragement. Mother Chandler enthusiastically spoke life and positivity. There was nothing more important to her than family… each and every member of her family.
Mother Chandler is preceded in death by her husband, Elder James Chandler; parents, John and Rosie Lee Williams; son, Bishop Edward Maurice Chandler; grandson/nephew, Melvin Williams Marable; siblings; John Williams and Doris Eiland, best friend Marshai Baker and spiritual parents, Pastor L.C. and Pearlie Baker.
She leaves to cherish her memories, Daughter, Missionary Jan (Deacon Steven) Marable, Granddaughter, Ashley (Brandon) Rouse and Great Grandchildren, Amaya, Brandon Jr, Ava and Bryson all of South Bend, Indiana, one brother, Melvin Williams, three sister in laws, Marilyn Chandler, Helen Chandler and Joan Williams, Goddaughters: Donna Watts, Felecia Triplett, Ravinia Mosely and Andria Wilson, along with the entire Baker family, special friend/mentor, Missionary Mary Spiller and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended familyand friends.
Homegoing services for Mother Chandler will be held on Saturday June 11, 2022 at 11 A.M at Pentecostal Cathedral Church Of God In Christ, 1025 Western Ave, South Bend, IN 46601.Visitation will be held at 10 A.M at the Cathedral with burial to follow at Southlawn Cemetery.
Obituary
Her story is one full of LOVE. A special, make your heart happy love and a smile that could brighten the darkest day. Her legacy is one of family, hope, and encouragement. To know Mother Betty Jean Chandler is an experience that leaves an imprint on your heart forever.
It was a wonderful summer day in Memphis when a ray of sunshine entered the world. June 29, 1940 John and Rosie Lee Williams were beyond excited to welcome their baby girl. She was adored by her parents and sister, Doris, and brother John.
Mother Chandler made her transition on Tuesday May 31, 2022 surrounded by her family.
She would often share fond memories of her childhood including playing outside, especially swinging! She enjoyed spending time with her family and three friends Bobbie Jean, Maude, and Marva. Mother Chandler graduated from Melrose High School in 1958. She attended National School of Businessin Tennessee, and Harris Teacher College, in St. Louis.
1961 was a monumental year for Mother Chandler. She moved to East Chicago. She was eventually introduced to her future and beloved husband, James. They were married December 16, 1961.Their love began a wonderful family legacy through their children Edward Maurice and Jan Michelle.
Mother Chandler’s love of God was evident and impossible to ignore. She accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior in 1968 at Friendly Church of God in Christ, now renamed Inspirational Community Center Ministry. She loved serving as an usher both in her local church under the leadership of Pastors L.C. and Louis Charles Baker and the Zion District. After relocating to South Bend, Indiana; Mother Chandler continued to serve God and the ministry of Pentecostal Cathedral Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Bishop Donald L. Alford Sr., onthe Mother’s Board.
She served the Lord and her church with all her heart She found the most encouragement in reading the Word of God. The Bible was her most comforting possession. Mother Chandler shared biblical wisdom with anyone she came into contact. Her ongoing statement was “watch as well as pray”.
During her professional career, Mother Chandler worked at St. Margaret Hospital becoming the first Black in Central Services. She also worked at Queen Anne Candy in Hammond, IN; often joking she ate more candy than she made. Mother Chandler was a teacher at heart in e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g she did. She was a pre-school teacher at Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Indiana, and a head teacher with the Development Training Center in Gary, Indiana.
Mother Chandler exhibited a wonderful mothering and godly spirit. She was surrogate mother to so many, exemplifying the epitome of encouragement. Mother Chandler enthusiastically spoke life and positivity. There was nothing more important to her than family… each and every member of her family.
Mother Chandler is preceded in death by her husband, Elder James Chandler; parents, John and Rosie Lee Williams; son, Bishop Edward Maurice Chandler; grandson/nephew, Melvin Williams Marable; siblings; John Williams and Doris Eiland, best friend Marshai Baker and spiritual parents, Pastor L.C. and Pearlie Baker.
She leaves to cherish her memories, Daughter, Missionary Jan (Deacon Steven) Marable, Granddaughter, Ashley (Brandon) Rouse and Great Grandchildren, Amaya, Brandon Jr, Ava and Bryson all of South Bend, Indiana, one brother, Melvin Williams, three sister in laws, Marilyn Chandler, Helen Chandler and Joan Williams, Goddaughters: Donna Watts, Felecia Triplett, Ravinia Mosely and Andria Wilson, along with the entire Baker family, special friend/mentor, Missionary Mary Spiller and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended familyand friends.
Homegoing services for Mother Chandler will be held on Saturday June 11, 2022 at 11 A.M at Pentecostal Cathedral Church Of God In Christ, 1025 Western Ave, South Bend, IN 46601.Visitation will be held at 10 A.M at the Cathedral with burial to follow at Southlawn Cemetery.
There are currently no tributes.
Richard Marable
Birth Date:
1967-12-07
Deceased Date:
2018-04-15
Obituary:
Obituary
Richard Andre Marable, son of Robert and Janice Marable, passed away Sunday, April 15, 2018.
Richard was born Dec. 7, 1967 in So. Bend, IN. He graduated from Washington High School.
Richard, a life long musician was known for music ability. He played for many churches, groups and other events.
Richard is survived by his wife, Kiersten Marable, two daughters; Kamilia and Kailani and one son, Richard, Jr., his mother; Janice Marable, brothers; Steven (Jan) Marable, Michael (Cecilia) Marable and Robert (Carrie) Marable, and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Marable.
Services for Richard will be held on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at 11:00 a.m., at Pentecostal Cathedral. Viewing will be from 10:00 a.m., to 11:00 a.m. A visitation service will also be held at Pentecostal Cathedral on Monday, April 23, 2018 from 6:00 p.m., to 8:00 p.m.
Obituary
Richard Andre Marable, son of Robert and Janice Marable, passed away Sunday, April 15, 2018.
Richard was born Dec. 7, 1967 in So. Bend, IN. He graduated from Washington High School.
Richard, a life long musician was known for music ability. He played for many churches, groups and other events.
Richard is survived by his wife, Kiersten Marable, two daughters; Kamilia and Kailani and one son, Richard, Jr., his mother; Janice Marable, brothers; Steven (Jan) Marable, Michael (Cecilia) Marable and Robert (Carrie) Marable, and other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Marable.
Services for Richard will be held on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at 11:00 a.m., at Pentecostal Cathedral. Viewing will be from 10:00 a.m., to 11:00 a.m. A visitation service will also be held at Pentecostal Cathedral on Monday, April 23, 2018 from 6:00 p.m., to 8:00 p.m.
There are currently no tributes.