In Celebration Of Life

Dru Ann Carter

admin — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 16:22:06 +0000

Dru Ann Carter was born on January 8, 1957 in North Hollywood, CA to Vernon and Dorothy Lankford. She attended Francis Polytechnic High School where she graduated in 1974.

Of the things that mattered most to Dru, family was definitely at the top of the list. She wore her heart on her sleeve when it came to family and she would light up whenever she talked about them. On June 26, 1982, Dru married her husband Larry Carter. Their union produced two children, Andrew and Lauren. “Juice,” as she was affectionately known to the family was often the glue and backbone that held everyone together.

Anyone that was fortunate to have a personal relationship with Dru knew how big her heart was and that she always had your best interest at hand. Dru touched so many people with her kind and authentic spirit. She had a genuine love of people, and could sit and talk to anyone for hours.

Along with family, her hobbies included: gardening, traveling, and spending time with her dog Grady.

Dru is survived by her husband Larry, her children Andrew and Lauren, her extended family and friends, and of course her dog Grady.

To the one my heart bleeds for, because I know that
I will never see those beautiful blue eyes again.
The years we spent together were the best years of my life.

Void, empty, hollow inside
My dreams have fled, my hopes have died.
You were my life, my hope, my love
All is gone, passed by thereof
The hurt is such no one should bear
What’s to life, why should I care?
I love you Dru……
~ Larry

Mom I just want to thank you for making me the man I am today. You taught me so much about life. There are so many memories that I will always have of us. You were my best friend and biggest fan. You were one of the few people that got my sense of humor and you always helped me stay positive regardless of the situation. I love you and will miss you so much!
~ Andrew

My mom, better known to us as “Juice” was the most amazing woman I have ever known. Saying that she was the strongest person I have ever met is an understatement. Her strength and courage were incredible, and she never once complained about ANYTHING. My mom’s positive outlook and caring manner were contagious to everyone she encountered. Every time she would walk into a room it was like she lit it up with her pretty blue eyes and inviting smile. I hope that one day I can be an amazing friend, wife, and mother just like she was. She will be loved and missed dearly in all of our hearts.
~ Lauren

Jackie Banks

admin — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 21:59:43 +0000

Jackie was born on Nov 2, 1936 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Luther and Louise Jones. Both preceded her in death. Jackie was the 4th of 8 children. Two of her four sisters, Annjeanette (Jeannie) and Barbara, and two of her three brothers, Donald and Marvin, preceded her in death. Jackie grew up with and married Richard Charles Banks, Sr at 16 in 1952 and had 7 children: Richard (Ricky) Charles Jr. (preceded her in death in 2001), Reginald (Reggie) Clifford, Randall (Randy) Cerome, Regina (Gina) Cynthia , Rosalind (Choo-Choo) Cassandra (Scarbrough, husband Robert), Rene’ (Tank) Charlene, and Ronald (Pooney) Curtis, all having the initials RCB. Both remarried other people but true love never dies. Upon the death of his second wife, Richard and Jackie remarried in 1986 bringing in his son, Ricardo, whom Jackie embraced as her very own. They remained together until Richard’s death in 1994. The joys of her life were all of her children, both natural and acquired. She loved roller skating from 9 years old on, and spent many weekends with her children at the skating rink. Jackie and Richard were baptized as children in the Macedonia Baptist Church, and re-baptized into the Church of Christ in 1993. With Regina and her children, Michael and Tyari by her side, Jackie transcended this life. She would not want a lot of weeping over her. She would want to be remembered for her love for others. We will also remember her for her fashion sense, feistiness, razor sharp tongue, strong will, and her determination to live life to the fullest. She was quite a spitfire. She leaves to mourn two sisters, Glorya and Mary, one brother, Maurice, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of other loved ones and friends.

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Enjoy the memorial courtesy of Terrell Porter

God saw you getting tired
and a cure was not to be,
so He put his arms around you
and whispered “come to Me”.
With tearful eyes we watched you,
and saw you pass away,
and though we love you dearly,
we could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands were put to rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us…
He only takes the best.

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If you’d like to view all family photos
and still listen to the music selections
[ CLICK HERE ]

Take My Hand, Precious Lord by Mahalia Jackson
A Love Shared by Willie Norwood
I’d Trade A Lifetime by Willie Norwood
The Search Is Over by Willie Norwood

Please feel free to add you sentiments with the family and friends of our beloved Jackie Banks

James “Mac” McDaniel, Jr.

admin — Mon, 10 May 2010 21:30:36 +0000


	James “Mac” McDaniel, Jr. was born in Bastrop, Loisianna on December 4, 1948 to James McDaniel, Sr. and Polly Carroll. Mac went to Morehouse High School and graduated in 1966, soon after joining the Air Force branch of the United States Military where he served 23 years. During his tenure, he’d visited Japan, Europe and countless other stops along the way. He would often joke that he’d been around the world twice. Mac received Christ on February 26, 2006 and served as a member of the Laughlin Community Church often leading the prayer in prelude to worship. He was also active Chaplain and cook atthe American Legion Post 60. He leaves behind, his loving wife Kathy, his children Lisa (Reggie), Juan, Monica, Anthony, Kelly (Andrew) and Shane; Grandchildren Alecia, Christopher, Aaron (Lisa) and Andrew Jr (Kelly); Siblings Bill, Eddie, Elisha, Carey, Maxine, Sally, Diane, Ely and a host of family & friends.





	Click image to preview \| Click here to download PDF		Mac has been very involved in his community, especially when it comes to his beloved Legion (American Legion Post 60). Below are a few articles featuring Mac and his efforts: Legion Menu Officers (1) Officers (2) Ordination Council Sees Candy Teaching VFW Celebration Wireless Legion

			We thank you for your love and support during this period. Please continue to be in prayer for our family! And please be sure to tell those you love that you love them – TODAY!

Johnathon Chapman

admin — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 22:46:53 +0000


	Photos shared from Joanne Rich, Jazzy Chapman & other friends & family of our beloved John John! Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? (John 11:25-26) Jonathan Albert Chapman, affectionately known as, “Jon Jon” was heaven sent on Thursday, August 3rd 1995 at 12:09am, tipping the scale at 9lbs, 15oz and 23 inches in length. He was called home on Thursday, March 18th 2010. He was the last child and only son born to Johnnie Chapman and Ruby Knight. Jonathan had wonderful caring and supportive parents, and two of the best sisters any sibling can have. His parents and two older sisters Chrystal and Jazmin truly love and miss him. He has fought the good fight and has gone to rest with his Creator in Glory where he joins his Grandparents William Knight and Odessa and Eva Chapman. He leaves to cherish his memory his Parents Johnnie Chapman and Ruby Knight, his sisters Chrystal and Jazmin, Grandparents Rudolph and Arletha Melvin, and a host of Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Friends. Jonathan was a member Simi Valley Second Missionary Baptist Church where he gave his life to Christ. He served their as an usher and choir member and was crowned the church King in 2003 and 2004. Jonathan was often involved in many church ministries and programs; the Youth Ministry, Men’s Mentoring Program, Men’s Day, Black History, Church Retreats, Easter and Christmas plays where he portrayed such Biblical characters as The Wise Men, and a Roman Guard. He never complained about anything. Jonathan loved sports. In fact he loved sports so much he was accused of ditching school but was found on the track field wanting to throw the discus. He played baseball, soccer, basketball, karate but his love was football. He was known as “Boom Boom Chapman”. If you played on the opposing offense you soon learn why he was called “Boom Boom”. After being introduced to music by his older sister Chrystal, Jon Jon thought he could sing. He would tire himself out trying to rap and dance. He would say, I know I sound wack but oh well it sounds good to me. He thought he would sound better in the shower. Although the water and soap made him smell better, it did nothing for his singing; He sound just as bad wet or dry. We will truly miss this ‘Gentle Giant’ who brought a city together. Oh how we LOVE our JON JON. [ Funeral Program coming soon ] So many are feeling the loss of John. Check out these videos, poems, etc. Video created by Cameron Stroud Conejo Mountain Funeral Home Obituay Letter from Hunter Wells Letter from Johnathon Wolverton Acorn Article [ More to come ]		In lieu of flowers, the family will be receiving donations to the Johnaton Chapman Memorial Fund, please send to: Johnathon Chapman Memorial Fund (Please make checks out to the fund) 6419 E. Westwood St. Moorpark, CA 93021

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D’Marco Ray Smith

admin — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:07:03 +0000

[[Show as slideshow]]

The legacy of D’Marco will be passed on to his baby, due to arrive in June 2010. If you would like to donate to D’Marco’s wife Kristal and “Baby Smith” please do so by clicking the donate button below*.

What Cancer Cannot Do

Cancer cannot cripple love,
it actually makes it overflow.
Cancer cannot shatter hope,
it actually clarifies what hope is for.
Cancer cannot corrode faith,
it actually strengthens faith’s convictions.
Cancer cannot conquer the spirit
because courage faces cancer’s affliction.

If what you do is what you love
you’ll never have to work a day in your life
-D’Marco Ray Smith

"Celebration
Written & Produced by Stevie Joseph
Vocals by Stevie Joseph, Rosalyn Pauley and Jarred Rogers

*Donations to Kristal & "Baby Smith"
are processed by the Reseda Church of Christ.

D’Marco Ray Smith was born on January 6, 1973 to his parents Annie Mae Henderson and Calvin Smith, Jr. At the age of 10 years old, D’Marco lost his mother to colon cancer. Anita Smith proudly took over the care of D’Marco as his full time mom. D’Marco had the strong support from his siblings Monica, Calvin, Robert and Celia as they are up in Los Angeles, California. D’Marco was a quiet reserved child that embraced his creativity, which he used in building remote control cars and later grew to building fully functional vehicles.

After graduating high school, D’Marco enlisted into the US Army. He actively served 3 1/2 years that took him traveling across the US and Africa. The discipline he learned in the Army influenced his work and exercise regimens, including studying the art of Brazilian Ju-jitsu. Upon his honorable discharge from the military, D’Marco attended the University of Southern California. He dove into the art of filmmaking resulting in a film he directed called “Game” starring Billy D. Williams. While editing his movie, D’Marco took on the responsibility of raising a healthy dog he named Napalm. Napalm became a big part of his life and the future inspiration for his sound company. In 1998, D’Marco graduated from the USC School of Cinema with a bachelor in Film. D’Marco jumped into the trenches of working as a production assistant for the entertainment industry. He moved onto nurturing a career in sound mixing building a company called Napalm Sound.

Working in the film industry brought him to incredible sights, travels and people. In 2007, traveling for work to New York City began an exciting and important journey in his life. D’Marco began his relationship with Kristal. He was later diagnosed with kidney cancer in April 2008, and shortly after D’Marco lost his father to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. D’Marco then began his firght taking on continuous rounds of chemotherapy. D’Marco and Kristal both realized how precious every moment in time is. Their love blossomed into a beautiful relationship of love, support, and friendship. They did not let his cancer take over their lives; instead, they saw it as an ongoing battle encouraging strong will and nurturing their bond with God. D’Marco proposed 13 months later. They married August 22, 2009 and are expecting their first child June 4, 2010.

D’Marco was an amazingly honest and responsible young man. He had a very clam soul; quiet and observant, yet he lit up a room when he walked in. He was the man to go to when you needed a trustworthy confidant. He enjoyed challenging his body in difficult activities such as Ju-jitsu, running, cycling and weight lifting. He enjoyed watching movies, telling stories and listening to soundtracks. He loved watching football especially The USC Trojans. He loved meditating to relaxing music but his music of choice was 80’s hip-hop. His fight in God kept his will strong and made him optimistic with everything he went through.

D’Marco is survived by his loving wife Kristal and their unborn child; his step-mom Anita; brothers Calvin III and Robert Brandon & wife Anna; sisters Monica Lanise and Celia Briauana; God-brother David; and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.

You are so loved and missed.

Episode: Celebrity Apprentice Episode
In Memorium to D’Marco Ray

Article: ‘Celebrity Apprentice 3′ Episode
Dedicated to D’Marco Ray

In Memoriam: D’Marco Ray Smith

RIP D’Marco Ray Smith

Donovin Stokes

admin — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 02:12:24 +0000


[[Show as slideshow]]		I am with you always, even to the end of the age –Matthew 28:20 Arise, go over this Jordan… I will not leave you nor forsake you. –Joshua 1:2, 5 The aching void, the loneliness, and all the thorn clad way, to Thee I turn with faith undimmed, And ‘mid the darkness pray. –O.J. Smith
While our hearts still ache and memories still flow, four-years ago, Donovin Malachi Stokes went home to be with the Father, he went back from where he came. Donovin represented love in its purest, most heavenly form. Therefore, on this four-year Anniversary, it is asked that each of us say a prayer for one another and the world in which we live. We miss Donovin and love him beyond words!

Florida Johnson 2

admin — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 07:20:56 +0000

High on the list of Catholic unsung heores is the name Florida Mae Jolivette Johnson. She was born December 27, 1923, to the loving parentage of Louis and Charlotte Jolivette in Forth Worth, Texas.

Florida practiced faith sincerly and earnestly without the benefits of accolades and praise. She served because she believe serving is the right thing to do. She was quoted for saying, "I just serve the Lord as best I know how; no fuss, no big deal. This is what I’m supposed to do and I’m comfortable doing what I do." This attitude quietly and unassumingly made her an eager evangelizer. She was taught by her Catholic parents that working in the church was necessary to be a good Catholic; and being good Catholics was required in the Jolivette home! Florida proceeded for more than half a century in dedicated service to the Catholic Church.

She met and married Albert Johnson. Together they cherished 24 years of marriage until his death in 1966. Florida was the proud mother of three boys and one girl.

Florida will always be remembered as a beautiful woman who looked much younger than her age. She was stern and determined but never a complainer, in spite of her burdens. She exuded a no-nonsense air that probably resulted from having little time for frolix and play. Florida gave more then 80 years of uninterrupted unselfish service to the Catholic Church.

On Sunday, September 14, 2008, Florida surrendered to her Master’s call to receive eternal rest.

Those left to cherish her most fondest memory: Children: Albert E. Johnson Jr. (Mimi), Barbara Johnson-McDaniel, Thomas J. Johnson, all in forth Worth, and Clarence Mark Johson (Rose), of Riverside California. 10 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

Florida Johnson 1

admin — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 07:20:01 +0000

High on the list of Catholic unsung heores is the name Florida Mae Jolivette Johnson. She was born December 27, 1923, to the loving parentage of Louis and Charlotte Jolivette in Forth Worth, Texas.

She met and married Albert Johnson. Together they cherished 24 years of marriage until his death in 1966. Florida was the proud mother of three boys and one girl.

On Sunday, September 14, 2008, Florida surrendered to her Master’s call to receive eternal rest.

Michael Jackson

admin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 03:48:41 +0000

Michael was the 7th born child of the famous Jackson family. His debut into music was in 1968 with a career envied by entertainers new and old! Michael, the cosummate performer died unexpectedly on June 25, 2009, but left this world with decades of unparalled music and entertainment.

Rest in Peace Michael!

Listen to Michael Jackson Mix • Visit Official Website • Wikipedia

Farrah Fawcett

admin — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 03:40:09 +0000

Best known for her roll as Jill Munroe on the TV series ‘Charlies Angels’. Her hairstyle will forever be remembered by those who emulated it in the 70′s and 80′s. Farrah was diagnosed with cancer in 2006 which she battled until her death in 2009.