Verna Gaines

Ms. Verna Gaines (Bouie) was born on February 1, 1925 in Headland, Alabama. She was the daughter of the late Willie and Annie (Hodges) Bouie. She was the only child born to this union.

Verna accepted Christ into her life at an early age as a member of St. Peter's A.M.E Church in Headland, Alabama. She relocated to Cleveland, Ohio with her family and shortly after joined St. John's A.M.E Church as an Usher. She later joined Parkwood C.M.E. Church serving as an Usher, Treasurer of the Parkwood C.M.E. Church Women's Missionary Society and member of the Parkwood C.M.E. Boosters. She also was a Transportation Committee driver and church cook affectionately known for her homemade pound cakes, tea cakes and rolls.

Verna served as a doorkeeper for the Lord for 80 years. She participated in the I.C.U.A. (Interdenominational Church Ushers Association), serving as Chairperson for the Burial Fund, Chairperson for the Alumni Department and as a member of the Arts and Crafts Committee. She was also a member of the National United Church Ushers of America. Verna received numerous accolades for her services an Usher and her participation in church.
Verna was employed at TRW's Filter Dynamics for many years, retiring in 1996. Her retirement was brief as she became restless and decided to return back to work in 1997 as a domestic worker for over a decade. She finally retired from working when her health started to decline in 2013.

Verna enjoyed traveling, crafts and Pokeno. She would travel by car with her companion Mitch and sometimes by train. Her ladies group Exotic Ladies would plan trips and gatherings. Verna's last road trip was by bus that took her and a group of friends to Georgia visiting different cities and staying overnight.

Verna received her heavenly wings on Monday March 1, 2021 at the David Simpson Hospice House, when God smiled on His beloved child and called her home to rest. She was preceded in eternal rest by her beloved companion Willie "Mitch" Mitchell.

Verna leaves to celebrate her life and cherish her memories her devoted cousin and caregiver Tammieanna Thornton (Anthony); two God children, Darsellis and Yasmine Thornton, all of Richmond Heights, Ohio. She also leaves a host of other relatives, loving friend Ms. Rosie Gibson, church family and friends. Her presence will truly be missed..