Elvia Jonespenick

Elvia May Jonespenick was born at home on March 16, 1930 in Cleveland, Ohio to
Jerry Johnson and Edna Edith Myers. Her parents, siblings, and daughter, Rita
Jones Hudson preceded her in death.
Elvia received her education through the Cleveland Public Schools. She also
attended classes at Wayne State University in their Criminal Justice Program.
Elvia worked various jobs throughout her career including the Mental Health
Division at Wayne County Probate Court. She was employed as a Social
Investigator, Coordinator of Guardianships for Mentally Disabled persons, Deputy
Probate Registrar and Assistant Director of the Mental Health Division. She
worked with judges throughout the state of Michigan when it was dangerous for
Black women to be in a position such as hers. Elvia retired from Wayne County
Probate Court in 1992 after dedicating 37 years of service, receiving numerous
awards and commendations for her excellent work and perfect attendance.
Elvia was a committed member of St. David's Episcopal Church in Southfield,
Michigan for many years. She volunteered in the church office for 16 years. Elvia
was also an usher, a LEV, LEM and a member of St. Anne's Guild. She also
served on the Vestry, and served as Vestry Clerk, was a First Friday Feast
coordinator, and a member of the Daughters of the King.
Elvia was a loving and caring Christian woman who was also a devoted mother,
friend, and church member. She loved music, dancing, reading, cooking, sewing,
scary movies, helping others and guiding the younger generation into becoming the
stars of the future.
On September 30, 2023, Elvia was called home to be with the Lord at the age of 93
years. She leaves to cherish her memories: her goddaughters, Wanda Gunn and
Julie Wagner; best friends Edna and Eugene Buday, Margaret Killion, Dorothy
Banks, Father Chris Yaw, and a host of other loving friends.