Grace Mary Laisure

Services Thursday, May 26, 2011 at Antioch Baptist Church 8869 Cedar Ave. Wake 10:00 AM Funeral 11:00 Grace Mary Laisure was born on November 28, 1916 in Zanesville, Ohio to John H. and Mable Portis (both deceased). She later moved to Cleveland, Ohio to live with her aunt Ida B. Harris (deceased). Grace Mary married William Laisure on April 9, 1937 in Cleveland, Ohio. William preceded her in death in 1990. To this union was born Marie Patricia and William Floyd. Grace Mary was a domestic worker, seamstress and a caterer. She loved people and helped anyone who needed assistance. She continued to work until she was 87 years old. She displayed patience, persistence, love and was extremely caring. She was very close to her family and friends. She loved to cook for them and you could always sit down to a wonderful meal. She was always cooking for the church and everyone wanted to know her recipe for her cookies, homemade rolls, and pound cake Church was a focal point of her life. She belonged to Antioch Baptist Church for over 75 years and a member of Concordia Bible Class under the leadership of Mrs. Alberta Gordon, and served as president from 1970 - 1981. Grace was also a member of Delaney Missionary Circle which she enjoyed immensely. She received Woman of the Year in 1993 and 1994 for the Woman's Day Celebration. Her first love was teaching Sunday school to nursery and toddler aged children. She also had fun helping them prepare for their speeches for the holidays. The Glenpark Street Club played a significant role in Grace's life. She became the Street Club president after the death of her husband, William. They had strong community relationships, planned many trips together, and provided fun and games for the young people. Everyone on the street was responsible for keeping watch over each other. Grace Mary was called home on Monday, May 16, 2011. She leaves to celebrate her home going; daughter, Marie Patricia Stricklin (Victor); son, William Floyd Laisure (Sharon); granddaughter, Tanya Nokes Bankston; sister-in-law, Ruth Portis. Also joining in the celebration are granddaughters, Estella Burrell (Antone), Diane Taylor, Maria Laisure; grandsons, Victor Stricklin Jr. and Sean Floyd Laisure; nieces and nephews, Marian Laisure, Maxine Laisure, Evelyn Marshall, Barbara Howard, Lolita Portis, Latrelle Portis Jackson, Liesta Portis Walker, Leniese Portis, Louis Laisure, Vernander Portis Jr., and Vance Portis; as well as a host of great nieces, nephews, and extended family members.