Mary L. Porter

Mary Lee Porter was born on October 23, 1934, to Nettie Lee Jackson and McKinley Vanpelle; in Memphis, Tennessee. Early in life Mary relocated to Gary, Indiana, met and united in marriage to Willie Porter in St. Louis, Missouri; went on to have and raise 12 children; Dorothy, Willie Jr., Mary Ann, George Lee, Nettie Lee, Telisa Marie, Michael, Kathy, Clarence, Brandon, Christopher (Chris) and Jamel.

Mary graduated from Roosevelt High School in Gary, Indiana, later becoming professionally skilled and trained in Culinary Arts and Domestic Engineering. She became an exceptional cook; earning the title of Managerial Head Chef while employed at various exclusive 5-star restaurants and hotels throughout the Greater Midwest area.

Mary accepted Christ at a very early age and began her Christian journey traveling through-out the Greater Midwest, singing/praying for the sick and shut-in. Mary later joined Water Valley Christian Church of Gary, Indiana. She worked diligently in the services of God exemplifying an extraordinary sense of love for God and church. Her demonstration of spiritual leadership, maturity, and wisdom earned her the position of "Church Mother". During her tenure at Water Valley, she established and directed the church choir and later founded (alongside her children) "THE PORTER FAMILY GOSPEL SINGERS".

Mother Porter later joined Freeman Temple Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C.) under the leadership of the late Bishop Oscar Freeman and was later ordained as an Evangelist Missionary. Over the course of more than 50 years, she actively and effectively served on the Mother's Board, Pastor's Aide, Hospitality Committee and as President of the Miscellaneous Committee. As a committed member she was responsible for organizing and sponsoring programs. Mother Porter remained a faithful member of Freeman Temple C.O.G.I.C., now under the leadership of Pastor Cornelius Stewart, until her transition.

Mother Porter will always be remembered for her love of God, praise and worship, and children. She possessed a unique sense of humor, enjoying effortless laughter while pouring out life and spiritual wisdom. Her heart was that of pure gold and genuine love. The very essence of her presence is unforgettable. A humble and exceptional woman of few words, but when she spoke, her words would penetrate your heart and mind. Forever shall she live and linger in our hearts.

Mary went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 6th, 2024. She is preceded in death by her: parents McKinley and Nettie Vanpelle; husband, Willie Porter Sr.; grandmother, Shirley Walker; sister, Flora Lee Woodall; daughters, Dorothy Robinson and Nettie Lee Porter; and son, George Lee Porter.

Mary leaves to cherish her loving memories: sons, Willie Porter Jr. of Michigan; Michael and Jamel Porter of Gary, IN., Clarence Williams-Porter of Gary, IN., Brandon Porter of Minnesota, Christopher (Chris) Porter of Georgia; daughters, Mary Ann and Kathy Porter of Gary, IN; Telisa Marie Scott of Columbia Heights, MN.; special nieces Lucretia Chatman and Theresa McCollum and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren (23); great-grandchildren (77); great-great grandchildren (55). Visitation Friday May 24,2024 2:00p.m. - 7:00p.m. at Powell Coleman Funeral Home 3200 W. 15th Ave Gary,In. Funeral Saturday May 25,2024 10:00a.m. at Freeman Temple 715 E. 45th Ave Gary,In 46409. Burial Evergreen Cemetery Hobart,In. Professional Services Rendered by Powell Coleman Funeral Home