Born in Chicago, IL, LaMellis “Mel” Wilson was born March 5, 1929, as
the third child to Nona and Elijah Jones. Mel worked hard all her life, from
a young age to make sure her family had what they needed. She told us she
was ready to rest. So, on May 15, 2021, Mel began to rest, eternally.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Vernell, siblings: Edward
and Flora, youngest son, Steven, and grandchildren: Terrell, Clark and Ger-
aldine.
LaMellis, graduated from DuSable High School in 1946. In 1947, she met
and fell in love with her first love, Harold Baldwin. They were married this
same year. In this union, they raised 6 children.
Mel gave her life to God as a young woman. Until her death, she was a
member of Memorial Baptist Church, under Pastor Nathan L. Shaffer, Jr.
Though she had several jobs throughout her life it was her passion for tak-
ing care of children, that many would remember. Mel was a licensed child-
care provider for more than 30 years. She was the “grandmother of the
village” for her old neighborhood, on Crystal. She had a hand in raising
many of the neighbor’s children as well as many others, who would come
thru her doors, over the years. She loved kids and they would flock to “Big
Ma”, all the time.
Mel would go on to find love, again when she met Vernell Wilson. They
were married on March 5th, 1991. Their union was filled with love, joy,
and traveling and Mel was able to retire.
Mel leaves to cherish and honor her memories: 5 children: Wenonah, Judith
(Obie), Flora, Natoma and Leslie. 22 grandchildren, 71 great-grand-
children, 52 great-great-grandchildren, a special niece and nephew:
Lorraine and Lawrence, 1 goddaughter: Dr. Katherine Kemp, as well as a
host of other family members.
Momma, I thank God for the years he has given us together. Momma, you
will be missed but never forgotten. Momma, I hope you know how much you
are loved by me and family and friends.
Love, Toni
Monday, May 24, 2021
Visitation: 10:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m.
Great True Vine Baptist Church
5936 W. Division St. Chicago, IL 60651
Pastor John E. Collins, Officiating
Organ Prelude “I Shall Wear A Crown” ... Professor Clyde Andrews
Processional ................................................. Family and Minister
Scripture (Old Testament) ...................................... Psalm 46:1-5
Scripture (New Testament) ..................... 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Prayer .....................................................................................
Solo ...................................................................... Mia McClay
Acknowledgements & Resolutions ...............................................
Remarks .............................................................. 2 min. please
Family Tribute ..........................................................................
Obituary ............................................................... Read Silently
Selection ............................................. Professor Clyde Andrews
Eulogy .......................................... Pastor Nathan L. Schaffer Jr.
Memorial M.B. Church, 1546 W. 87th St., Chicago, IL 60620
Benediction ..............................................................................
Recessional ..............................................................................
Organ Postlude .................................... Professor Clyde Andrews
Thank you, Lord, for LaMellis Wilson’s life and the 92 years you allowed us
to share with her. We lift her up to you, today, in honor of the good we saw in
her and the love we felt from her. Please give us the strength in knowing, she
is in your care so that we can celebrate her life and victories.
LaMellis ~ Mama ~ Big Mama ~ Auntie ~ and all the other beautiful
positions you held you will be missed and we accept that you are in the arms
of the Lord now and have eternal life thru Jesus Christ. Amen.
-Love Michael and Rozina!