A Tribute To Mama Joy

Where do I begin to explain the overwhelming significance of this phenomenal woman known to many as Mama Joy? Should I begin with her undying loyalty and unconditional love she had for her family? Or should I start with her tireless hours of research and commitment to the history of the Abolitionists, Thomas and Harriet Lee Trusedale, who lived in her home known as 227 Abolitionist Place. Maybe I can start with years of consistently coaching young children in baseball, basketball and volleyball, with every team coming in first place every year. Making her the recipient of the "Mayor's Award" presented to her by Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley himself. I'd rather talk about her years as a producer's assistant for Black B film classics such as Blackula, and Hyde, or how she was a dancer in the movie "Uptown Saturday Night". And did background vocals for her close friend Teddy Pendergrass, or when she designed costumes for the OJays. But then I would miss talking about her years as a cosmetologist who owned her own hair salon called Hairitorium. Come to think of it, those were the years she held the office of Title I chair and PTA President in Brooklyn's districts 13 and 22 and received countless awards in advocacy and leadership. On second thought I'll mention how Mama Joy was the best friend a daughter could ever have. She was my biggest fan, for any show I performed in. Ringing that bell while saying, "Look at my Baby work!" She was my miracle maker, and my counselor. Getting advice from her was always like listening to a good book. Through her love, she instilled in me a self-confidence that's worth more than gold. I love her with all my heart and soul, and was more than happy to share her with the countless people who felt she belonged to them as much as my 2 brothers and me.

The world has lost a powerful Warrior Queen, but the galaxies have just added their brightest star. As a family representative of the "Mama Joy Clan" I thank you in advance for your support and divine dollars.

Funeral Service are as follows:
January 16, 2014
Located at Frank R. Bell Funeral Home,
536 Sterling Place, Brooklyn NY 11238,
corner of Classon
Repast January 16, Immediately following the service:
Asase-Yaa School of the Arts 1803 Fulton & Rochester
A & C train to Utica 25, 46 bus to Fulton & Utica
Public viewing: 3-5PM
Funeral 5-8PM
Burial: January 17, 9AM Calverton National Cemetery
210 Princeton Blvd, Calverton NY, 11933

Love, Light, & Joy~