Mr. Clarence Redley

Clarence Willard Redley was born on August 10, 1934, in South Mansfield, Louisiana to the late Charley Redley Sr. and Bertha (Boykin) Redley. He was the youngest of seven children, six boys and one girl. Clarence received Christ at the early age of 10 at Corinth Baptist Church in South Mansfield. He attended the South Mansfield Grammar (elementary) School and graduated from DeSoto Parish Training (High) School on May 27, 1952. After graduation, Clarence and his brother William moved to Detroit to join their older five siblings. The two of them joined First Baptist Church of Ecorse together in 1954. Clarence attended Henry Ford Community College then the Detroit Institute of Commerce, receiving his diploma on May 25, 1956. Clarence worked for the U.S. Post Office, an accounting firm, and Redley Brothers Construction Company while completing his education. Afterwards, he went to work for the U.S. Customs Service. His employment was interrupted while he served in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959 where he was stationed in West Germany. He returned to his Customs Service position and reached the high position of Supervisory Import Specialist. Over the years he received numerous awards for service, performance, recognition and noteworthy contributions. He retired in 1989 after 33 years of service. In 1955, Clarence was visiting his cousin, Mayme Tyler, in Chicago, Illinois. It was Mayme who introduced Clarence to Diadra Olivette Coleman during that visit. Clarence and Diadra were married on August 6, 1960 at St. Anselm Church in Chicago. That same day, they traveled to Detroit to begin their life together. Clarence and Diadra were joined in holy matrimony for almost 57 years. One daughter, Dr. Clarita Anissa Redley Hughes, was born of this union. During his years in Detroit, Clarence served as a notary public and was a member of the Deacon Street Block Club where served as president for several years. He was an avid golfer but also enjoyed bowling, traveling, and watching sports activities. Clarence especially enjoyed his grandchildren, family and friends. Clarence peacefully transitioned from this life on January 30, 2023. He was preceded in death by his wife Diadra; sister Emma Hobbs; brothers Herman, Charley Jr., Eugene, Ernest Sr. and William; his nephews Charles and Keith Sr., and nieces Claudia Peterson and Lettie Redley. Left to cherish his memories are his daughter Clarita; son-in-law Ron Hughes; grandchildren Brandon, Nichole and Miles Hughes; sister-in-law Arlette Ware, and a host of nephews, nieces, and friends.

Mr. Clarence Redley

August 10, 1934 - January 30, 2023