Mrs. Lillie Belle Eades

Lillie Belle Drynks, was born August 5, 1930, in Lyons, Georgia to Willie and Mamie Drynks. Lillie Belle accepted Christ at an early age. Lillie Belle was a devoted member of New Mount Mariah Baptist Church in Highland Park, where she attended faithfully and found great joy in worship and fellowship. Shirley Caesar and Clark Sisters were her go to for gospel. Lillie attended school in the Miami Public School District, where she diligently pursued her education. She successfully fulfilled all high school requirements, which enabled her to begin a long and rewarding career as a nurse’s aide. With over 30 years of dedicated service, Lillie retired from the renowned Arnold Home in Detroit, Michigan. During her tenure, she had the distinct honor of providing compassionate care to Barbara Siggers Franklin, the beloved mother of Detroit’s own Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. As we all know, Lillie Belle was a hardworking and resourceful woman who dedicated herself to multiple jobs and created various streams of income throughout her life. Among her many roles, she took great pride in working at the prestigious five-star Townsend Hotel in Birmingham, Michigan, where she remained until her well-earned retirement. Lillie Belle and James Eades were joined in holy matrimony and shared 20 cherished years together before his passing. Lillie Belle’s greatest joy was her four children: Jacqueline and Harold (Sultan), who preceded her in death, Terri Jean and Anthony, who continue to honor her legacy. Lillie Belle’s greatest joy was feeding her family, especially during the holidays. The anticipation and excitement in the air, knowing that Granny was cooking, was all the motivation we needed to gather and celebrate those special days. She took immense pride in remembering every grandchild’s birthday and could recite them effortlessly without being asked. Her cakes were her specialty, a true labor of love, and she always made sure to send one to her two favorite aunts, Aunt Clarkie and Aunt Mary, a tradition that brought her great joy! Lillie Belle peacefully departed this life on January 16, 2025, surrounded by the love and devoted care of her children, Terri Jean, Anthony, and Leica, who stood by her side until her final breath. Left to cherish Lillie Belle’s memory are her loving children, Terri and Anthony, along with her treasured grandchildren: Tina, William, Frank, Feather, Sweetana, and Remeta. She is now joyfully reunited with her granddaughter Hilda (Yvette), who preceded her in passing. 22 of Great-Grandchildren, 16 Great-Great-Grandchildren, and 3 Great-Great-Great-Grandchildren. Lillie Belle’s legacy also lives on through a host of loving family members and dear friends.

Mrs. Lillie Belle Eades

August 5, 1930 - January 16, 2025