Lateefah Marie Perry, a beacon of light in the community, passed away at Mercy Health Medical Center on Sunday, June 9, 2024. Known to family and friends as Tee, her journey began in Newark, New Jersey, on January 22, 1948, as the beloved daughter of Odell and Ozella Perry. After a life defined by love, faith, and service, Lateefah left this world, leaving her memory to be treasured eternally.

Educated and compassionate, she dedicated herself to making the lives of others better. Retiring from Briarfield Manor where her passion for helping others shone brightly, she worked in the Restorative Therapy Department and later in the Social Service Department. Lateefah's legacy will endure through the lives she touched.

A woman of unwavering faith, Lateefah's presence at Elizabeth Missionary Baptist Church was a constant source of joy and comfort. Her voice in the choir and her dedication to the church’s culinary arts, follow-up, outreach & mission, the Daughters of the Promise and Sunday School ministries, have left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know her.

In addition to her professional and spiritual pursuits, Lateefah found solace in the simple pleasures of life – from fishing trips to crossword puzzles, each moment was rich with love and vitality. She was a voracious reader. She enjoyed rooming with her traveling partner Mother Ernestine Kidd, sitting on the porch listening to music, talking on the phone and spending time with family and friends.

The joy she found in laughter, family gatherings, and rooting for her beloved Cleveland Browns will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Opulence and elegance were observed as she was always immaculate even in her leisure attire.

A cherished mother to her three children Lady Michelle (Pastor Cleveland) Burton of Canfield, Ohio, Elder Kevin (Dorresa) Brown of Toledo, Ohio, and Minister Aaron (Beresa) Brown of Youngstown, Ohio.

She will be fondly remembered by her siblings which includes her two brothers Elder Odell Perry Jr and Fred (Sandra) Perry both of Columbus, Ohi and three sisters: Arkeedah (Gary) Demmons, Suwanee, Georgia; Drucilla Perry of Columbus, Ohio and Shahara (Pastor J. Dwayne) Heard of Boardman, Ohio.

Her legacy will remain vibrant through her nine grandchildren Docylynn Shelton, Farrin (Brittany) McDonald, Tony Brown, Berah Brown, Samone Robinson, Kaylann Brown, Anthony Robinson, Martino Robinson and Dionna Burton.

Lateefah also leaves a sustaining love among her fifteen great grandchildren and an expansive score of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Now that Lateefah’s faith has become sight, she takes her place among the ancestors which includes her parents Odell and Ozella Perry who preceded her into eternal life.

The celebration of Lateefah's life will take place at Elizabeth Baptist Church, 1210 Himrod Avenue, Youngstown, with a. public viewing on Saturday June 15, at 9:00 am. The Celebration of Life will begin at 10:00am and Pastor J. Dwayne Heard will preside as the celebrant. The services will conclude with a committal ceremony which will be held prior to her being laid to rest at the Tod Homestead Cemetery.

As we gather to bid farewell to Lateefah, let us remember her laughter, her love, and the countless ways she enriched our lives. Though she may be physically absent, her spirit will forever dance in the hearts of those who were touched by her grace. Farewell, dear Lateefah, may your journey beyond be as beautiful as the legacy you leave behind.

At this most intimate time, the beloved family of Lateefah “Tee” Marie Perry elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care and After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500