Eddie Lionel Porter

Life Profile of Eddie Lionel Porter
Eddie Lionel Porter transitioned to be with the Lord on Friday, July 26, 2024. He was born on November 19, 1932, in Cottondale, FL, to the late Frozena Pope Porter and Emory Porter.
Eddie was a graduate of Jackson County Training School, class of 1952, where he was Senior Class President. He attended Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, FL. In 1953, Eddie migrated to Newark, NJ. He was drafted into the U.S. Army 1953-1955. Upon his return from service, he resumed employment at Lightolier, in Belleville, NJ, and later progressed to supervisor. Eddie retired after 42 years.
On June 10, 1956, Eddie married Ollie Bell Porter, and celebrated 62 years of marriage when she made her transition on March18, 2019. Eddie was a resident of Newark for 71 years.
Eddie was a firm believer in God, serving others, supporting communities, and valued education. During his formative years, he was a member of Henshaw Chapel AME Church in Cottondale, FL, and frequently attended several other churches in the area. Eddie was a faithful member of St. James A.M.E. Church in Newark, for over 65 years. He served his church community in Florida and New Jersey in various capacities. Eddie was a Sunday School teacher, church superintendent, member of the Usher Board ministry, and supporter of numerous church-sponsored community events and fundraising campaigns, as well as those in support of institutions of higher education.
Among his civic contributions, Eddie sought to be a role model and resource in his neighborhood. He was often vocal about his vision for the communities in which he lived, worked, and prayed. Eddie had a heart for children. In remembering his modest childhood, he provided the neighborhood kids with sports equipment, trips to the park, and had his bicycle pump available to help fix anyone's bike. Eddie enjoyed traveling, and wanted his and other children to see opportunities beyond their neighborhood. He was a member of: the Masons at the King Solomon Grand Lodge (Newark); NAACP, Life Member; American Legion; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; and the South Ward Block Association.
Eddie was a thinker, philosopher, and storyteller. He took pride in sharing simple life lessons - there was always a moral to the story. He often reminded us of Psalm 91: 1-7.
Eddie is survived by his children, Jacquelyn, Angela, Tijuana, and Sharese; grandchildren, Emerald (Austin), Trey, Makeda, and Amari; his siblings, Roy H. Porter, Iola "Tot" Rivers Bell, Lillie Mae "Teanie" Porter; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. His brother, Robert Porter, and sister, Helen Porter Godwin, preceded him in death.
He was a dedicated husband, father and cherished friend to those who knew him. Eddie lived a life of giving through love, thought, and deed. Thank you, Heavenly Father, for enriching our lives and blessing us with Eddie.
Flowers can be sent to:
Vann Funeral Home by Friday, August 16, 2024
4265 Andrews Street
Marianna, Florida 32446
850-482-3300