Thomas Hayes, born September 16, 1959, departed this world on April 30, 2020. He will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved him, especially his wife of 35 years, Sandra Hayes, and three children, Jessica Belanger (Brent), Christen, and Brandon. He will be forever remembered as “Papa” to his three beautiful grandchildren, Clay, Scarlett, and Sophie. Thomas is survived by his mother, Janet Hayes, brother David Hayes, and sister Holly Dawson (Ben Dawson). He will join his beloved father, Donald Hayes, in eternal rest.

Thomas, also known as Thom or Thomas P, grew up on the border of West Bloomfield and Farmington Hills, MI. As a child, he gained a love for the public service and outdoors through Boy Scouts, achieving Eagle Scout status. His father, Don, taught him the meaning of hard work as he designed and built their vacation home in northern Michigan, recruiting his children and their friends to help with the build, creating everlasting memories. Thom often told stories of the Summer of ‘72, and reflected on the impact it had on his childhood.

He attended Harrison High, where he met his highschool sweetheart, Sandra Dawson. Together they attended Michigan State University (Go Green!) and are proud Spartan alums. Thom and Sandy married on July 20, 1984, and enjoyed early years of marriage living in sunny Margate, Florida. On January 21, 1987 they were blessed with their first child, Jessica Leigh. The happy family moved to Milford, Michigan in 1990, and welcomed their second daughter, Christen Marie on August 13th. The family was complete with the arrival of Thom’s first and only son, Brandon Paul, on August 8, 1993. And, while he had many pets over the years, their family dog, Jack, had a special place in his heart.

While he enjoyed being a father, nothing made him smile bigger than news that he was going to be a grandfather. The joy on his face at the sight of his three grandkids was exuberant, even in his final days. Clay Thomas, born November 14, 2016, Scarlett Leigh and Sophie Jeanne, born October 18, 2019, will hear stories of their Papa, and know how happy they made him.

Thom was a proud Milford resident, and enjoyed raising his family there, spectating little league baseball, football, cheerleading, dance recitals, amongst other activities his children participated in. His favorite hobby was gardening and landscaping his yard in the village, thoughtfully building a beautiful place for his family to enjoy. If he wasn’t outside working on the lawn, he was manning the grill, often bringing his family together for an unforgettable slab of ribs. Additionally, he was a very skilled woodworker, a trait passed down from his father, and has the tool collection to prove it. He enjoyed watching and listening to sports, even through the frequent disappointments from his Detroit teams. Thom was a true patriot, cared deeply for his country, always revering and honoring veterans when he could.

His family, immediate and extended, will hold sacred their memories of vacations in northern Michigan in Eastport and Northport, where they enjoyed life on Grand Traverse bay boating and swimming. Passing the time golfing, playing darts or pool, exploring downtown, watching July 4 fireworks, and spending quality time together will be thought of often.

More than anything, Thomas, Thom, Thomas P, Honey, Dad, Papa, will be remembered for his huge heart and generous spirit. While he was a quiet man, his love and affection was amplified through warm hugs, acts of service, thoughtfulness towards others, loving messages, and sincere smile. He was always truly genuine, and made sure you felt taken care of, and special.

Health complications hindered Thom for the better part of the last decade, and sadly ended his life on Earth early in the morning on Thursday, April 30th, 2020, at the age of 61. His family cared for him in the final weeks of his life in their family home, and was by his side until the end.

His final resting spot will be in Eastport, Michigan on Grand Traverse Bay, his heaven on Earth - what he called “God’s Country”. His family, and those who knew and loved him, will miss him so dearly, and pray he is at peace in his eternal rest. A memorial service will be held in his honor in Summer 2020, details to be announced at a later date.

I first met Mark when being interviewed by him on a hot and slightly oppressive day in late summer 1999 – the interview was short and relaxed. After half an hour, much to my surprise, he said I had got the job and suggested we go out for lunch at a country pub with the rest of IMAJ – I was the 9th employee. That informal, impulsive, optimistic outlook on life struck me like the refreshing thunderstorm that came over as we finished our pints. It lasted for the next 20 years.

Mark had the delightful habit of self-deprecating joy at any success he achieved being entirely down to luck. Likewise any adversity was of no real consequence as “something would turn up”. Plans were of a loose weave form that always made space for spur of the moment decisions to do things just because it would be amusing. The decision to create 4most was taken in exactly this way – the two of us, on a sailing boat in the Solent in 2011.

In short, Mark was a lot of fun. He suffused everyone around him with laughter, often at the expense of his own liver. As a result he had an enormous social circle which he tended to with meticulous care – ensuring that everyone was included and with an extreme generosity of spirit. At first sight it was sometimes difficult to perceive that there was also a keen intellect and competitive streak in Mark. I have been told that he had been a bit of a late developer – as a result his early academic results certainly didn’t reflect his capabilities. This led to a diverse career, from helping the teams mapping the under-water topography of the Shetland Islands in preparation for building the oil terminal there, to selling light aircraft and onwards to IT hardware sales, then into management of analytics and consultancy companies. If you ever sat in a meeting with Mark you would know that his ability to do mental arithmetic was uncanny, but more important was his knack for asking the simple question that could drive decisions. Also, often out of sight, was the depth of his kind and caring nature as a father and husband – family was largely private for him, but clearly at the core of his world.

We will all miss Mark, but to his eternal credit, none of us at 4most will have to struggle very hard to find a happy memory to remember him by.

Mark Somers
7th May 2020
Co-Founder, 4most

Thornton Guy Riddle was born August 6, 1957 in Oakland, California to parents William Guy Riddle and Bonnie Ruth Bell, who were happily married for 21 years. Thornton was the eldest of four children.

Not long after graduating from Berkeley High School, Thornton met the love of his life Loretta White, at the Fremont Assembly hall in 1976. They were married on November 26, 1977 and remained happily so for 42 years.


Prepared compliments of Laurae Campbell

“THE ORIGINAL NAOMI CAMPBELL”
Naomi Claudette Presley was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on February 22, 1919, to the late Arthur and Preshia (Anderson) Presley. Naomi and her six siblings, grew up during The Great Depression, with a hardworking father and stay at home mother. Although it was a time of economic crisis, she grew up with the stories of Tulsa’s own Greenwood District, or Black Wall Street, as it was most affectionately known.
Naomi moved to California during World War II to be with her older sister. It was during this time that she worked in the Shipyards. She earned the respect of her fellow workers in the shipyard, which was a major feat for a Native American / African American woman during this time, as she was part of the Bay Area’s major contribution to victory during World War II, as she assisted in the shipbuilding. While in California. Naomi Presley married, became Naomi Campbell, and moved to Menlo Park in the mid 1950’s and was part of the community for over 50 years.
She also embodied the spirit of, “It takes a village to raise a child,” as she was known to have fed many of the neighborhood kids hot meals before their days of school started and after they ended. Because of this, she has an extended family throughout the Menlo Park community.
She enjoyed gardening, playing musical instruments, painting, bowling and watching the community evolve from her living room window.
Her legacy will live on in the lives of those who were blessed to share treasured memories with her, especially her sister Ruth Keys of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Her 4 children, Adrienne Ali (son-in-law; Kamal Ali), Diane Campbell, Oliver Campbell, Sheila Reeves (son-in-law; Charles Reeves). Her grand-children; Toni Marie Ali, Nadar Ali, Tiffany Campbell and Abrial Reeves. Six Great-grandchildren and 3 great, great grandchildren, all of California. And a host of nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents; Arthur and Preshia (Anderson) Presley, 5 of her siblings; sisters Loren McMillan, Faye Scoggins, Helen Lane, Mary Adkinson and brother Earl Presley. She was loved by many and there will never be another like her. May she forever rest easy.

Murray,

Thank you for our two lovely children. David and Breanne. You were a great father.
The wonderful memories we had when we were together - I'll cherish forever.,


Donna.


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Dear Dad

There was so much left unsaid… If only there was just one more hour I could have said I love you and goodbye.

Growing up you gave me every opportunity possible to have my best life. Though I wasn’t as lucky as my brother inheriting your book smarts, I was able to receive the gift of a musical ear and your love of travel. Both David and I loved playing sports and we always appreciated all the time and extra practice that you helped us with to make sure we followed our dreams and passions. You would go as far even to catch for us when both us where pitching so hard it would bruise and hurt your hands. Even when you just came home from a very long trip you would change and grab your glove to play ball for hours or drive us to all our sporting events.

I wish more than anything that you would have been able to walk me down the aisle and see David get married or play with future grandkids, but I do know that you will be watching over us and protect us forever. We will never forget how much you loved us and all the support and advice you gave us to grow up and become great people.

I wrote a poem when I was eight years old. I remember working so hard on it and when you opened it up for your birthday you cried when you read it… You kept it with you as you said you always would. From what I can remember:

Daddy, I love you you are everything to me, though I may not always show it you are the hero in all my dreams. You battled dragons, evil villains, and trees you do everything in the world to make sure I’m safe, you are always there to protect me. Whenever I need you, you are always there for me. You always go the extra mile to make sure I will have everything I need. If I grow up and we grow apart to know that you are my hero forever and forever the protector of my heart.

I miss you every day Always and Forever

Your Daughter


Breanne


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My father gave me the best gift I could ever ask for, apart from life itself; that was the gift of encouragement, and belief that I could achieve anything. This is something that Murray would instill in both of his children David and Breanne growing from children into young adults.

My father was an expert in communicating with other people and was a terrific role model. When asked he was able to give good advice to his friends and family. He genuinely cared for those around him, as they did for him. This was instilled from his immediate family from birth until leaving the nest of the farm when pursuing his professional aviation career, as was the importance of family to him.

Murray Chalmers spent a majority of his professional career flying commercial aircraft. He attended his aviation school in British Columbia. His career started and ended in domestic flights; but spent a good portion of his flying time overseas, where his appreciation for photography and culturally different music grew from.

As we gather today to remember him, let us remember to cherish his soul, and to pass on the joy and legacy that my father passed on to others.

I’d now like to close with a poem.
“Miss Me But Let Me Go”
When I came to the end of the day,
And the sun has set for me
I want no rites in a gloom-filled room
Why cry for a soul set free?
Miss me a little, but not too long
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love we once shared
Miss me, but let me go
For this is a journey we all must take
And each must go alone
It’s all part of the maker’s plan
A step on the road to home
When you are lonely and sick at heart
Go to the friends we know
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds
Miss me, but let me go.
This is how I feel my father would want us to grieve. He would not want us to all cry for months but instead would want for us to let him go. He would want for us to be kind to one another, and to be there for each other, and to continue on our own journey.

Love from your son,

David.

On April 14th 2020, life’s closing-time came, so Richard Peel Sr. flashed the lights, locked the door and made his way home. Rich lived his life enriching the lives of others with a sense of humor and infectious laugh that could fill a room. He could draw you in with a funny story or crack you up with a perfectly timed one-liner. He was the kinda guy who just made a good time even better. They say there’s “one in every crowd,” and it was him.

Before starting his career as a machinist, he served his country aboard the USS Bearss, a destroyer in the US Navy (which might explain some of his more colorful language). After leaving the Navy, Rich married and moved from Camden to Pennsauken NJ, where he raised three children; Linda Mason (Mark), Beth MacHenry (Paul ) and Richard Peel Jr (Jeanette). Rich gave back to his community during this time, serving as a volunteer paramedic on the Pennsauken First Aid Squad for over 20 years.

Rich later expanded his family when he married Jane Peel, his wife of over 20 years, and gained three more children; Grady McCafferty (Paul Antonini), Jason McCafferty (Marsha) and Jodie McCafferty. From the moment they met, Rich ​and Jane were truly partners in life and did everything together. They eventually moved to Beverly Hills, Florida, where they purchased a home and spent their time enjoying sunny days, motorcycle rides, “swimming pools and movie stars.” They made the life they wanted....”and they lived happily ever after.”

Rich’s love of life will be carried on by his friends and family including his 9 grandchildren, three great grandchildren (two are currently “en route”) and one great nephew. While we are heartbroken by our loss, we find peace in knowing that Rich is reunited with his father, George Peel Sr., his mother, Jean Peel, and his brother, George Peel Jr. and George's two daughters, Lori Peel & Julie Gibson.

So, with a “Mahna-Mahna” and one final “Air-Raid,” we raise up our Kamikazes in honor of Richard Peel Sr., until we meet again.

dear Kim
my noble husband and loving father
passion and compassion filled your whole being
doting on the sublime of family and home
tending to the health of gardens and community
I could always make you laugh
we are forever
You make me smile
Peace&Love,
michele


Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints in snow.
I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circles light
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there. I did not die.
-Native American prayer

THIS BIO IS A WORK IN PROGRESS, DON'T HESITATE TO SEND FEEDBACK!

Rev. Dr. Williams L. Watkins, Jr.
Retired BMBC Pastor Emeritus
Bible Teacher & Preacher
ThG, BRE, BA. ThM, LittD.

Rev. Dr. Watkins was a native of Pensacola, Florida, the son of William L. Watkins, Sr. and Lizzie Mary Watkins. Dr. Watkins and his sister, Ms. Cleopra Odessa Robinson, were one year apart in age. The entire family were members of the Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. There, Dr. Watkins confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized by Rev. Dr. James A. Clausell, Pastor. Passionate about entrepreneurship, he started his first newspaper business, The Junior Press, at age 15. He used his skills in photography to augment his news stories.

Dr. Watkins studied journalism at the Lincoln University, School of Journalism in Jefferson City, Missouri. He published the College Weekly and Campus Magazine while on campus. After attending Lincoln University, Rev. Dr. Watkins relocated to Harlem. He continued his studies in Photo Journalism at CCNY while working in the office of the Dean of Student Life, Evening Division. He also studied magazine circulation, sales and promotion at N. Y. U. Dr. Watkins continued to work as a freelance photographer, publishing his own paper, The New York Evening Express, and selling Comic Books in store fronts and on the Harlem street side. Soon, he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree at the College of New Rochelle, School of New Resources, and New York Theological Seminary. Thirsty for biblical instruction, Dr. Watkins attended several other biblical education institutions in the New York area. He became a member of the Abyssinian Baptist Church in 1950 and was very active in soul winning. That same year, Dr. Watkins’ son, Ronald Darrell Williams, was born and raised in Jefferson City, Missouri.

In 1980, he was licensed to preach the gospel by Rev. Dr. Samuel D. Proctor. Dr. Watkins worked diligently in various churches in Harlem to advance the gospel. He held various roles, including teaching and assisting those called to pastor. Once ordained, Dr. Watkins faithfully assisted the pastor of Little Mt. Moriah Baptist Church and later became Pastor/Retired Pastor Emeritus of Bethlehem Moriah Baptist Church.

Ministerial Work
1989- Served at Bethany Baptist Church.
1994-95 - Served as Interim Pastor of Bethany Baptist Church
1995-96 – Served as Interim Pastor of Second Corinthian Baptist Church.
2005-08 -Served as Supply Pastor at Bethany Baptist Church.

Other Service
• UMBA Congress of Christian Education and New Testament Instructor- Former Associate Dean.
• New York Baptist Education Center
o Former Dean of Chapel
o Professor of Preaching
• United Missionary Association- Former Historian
• Rev. Dr. John L. Scott Associate Ministers of UMBA- Life Member
• The Baptist Ministers Evening Conference of Greater New York & Vicinity
o Life Member
o Corresponding Secretary
o Former Presidents Awardee.
• Baptist Ministers Evening Conference of the Bronx, New York City & Vicinity
o Life Member
o Corresponding Secretary
• Baptist Ministers Evening Conference of Greater New York & Vicinity
o Life Member
• The Brooklyn Baptist Evangelical Union
o Vicinity & Corresponding Secretary
• Monthly Union Praying Band
o Recording Secretary
• Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement
o An original founder
o Minister of Information
o Newsletter Contributor
o Historian
o Photographer
• The Positive Community Magazine
o Staff photographer
o Distributor
• Metropolitan Interdenominational Minister's Conference
o Member
• United Missionary Baptist Association
o Member
• Association for the Study of African American Life & History (ASALH)
o Photographer

Awards
• NY-BEC Achiever Award
• Black Media, Inc. Merit Award
• HCCI Elders of the Vision Award
• Lincoln University (Mo) 50 year Alumni Award
• Abyssinian Baptist Church Missionary Recognition
• WAUMBA Special Recognition
• UMBA Ministers Wives & Widows
• Life Member JLScott Associate Ministers
• Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater New York & Vicinity

Gail was born on December 11, 1948, in Dallas to Pete and Patsy Harris. Sharon was a fiery redhead who grew up in West Dallas where she spent most of her childhood days outside with her siblings, playing and getting into trouble. She was a very funny, naive and loveable person who loved reading her Bible, playing bingo and Scrabble, watching scary movies and spending time with her family and friends. Her favorite drink was Dr. Pepper or a fountain Coca-Cola with a lot of ice. She would say the first thing that popped in her head rather it was good or bad. Gail worked as a housekeeper and then later became an apartment manager. Gail loved helping others even if it meant she had to do without. She loved to tell stories and make jokes with others. Her grandchildren were the apple of her eye. She leaves behind her son, Shane Harris and wife Rachel; siblings, Anita, Peter (Bo), Phillip and wife Darlene, Josie (Jody) and husband Dale, Cheyenne and spouse Kim; grandchildren, Ryan (Lupita), Christina (David, Sr.), Kaylee (Elijah), Justin, Alexander, Daniel; great-grandchildren, Kayleigh, David, Jr, Eli, Kellin and Ivory; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members. Gail was loved by everyone and her sense of humor will be missed by all.

Steven was the kind of man that had BIG dreams and a kind heart. He loved his kids and was a great father. He was spirited and energetic. He was helpful and patient and even when he didn't have much for himself he was always willing to offer up what he did have to help others. He had this energy that pulled people to him like a magnet. He was strong and fearless.. He was honest even when he knew it would be to his detriment. He was a hard worker and always did what needed to be done. He was someone you could count on, he was my soulmate, and I will miss him for the rest of my life.