Hortense "Grandma" Boston

Her life was a testament to devotion-devotion to her family, her faith, and her community. As a child, she was a member of Mt. Nebo Church in Portsmouth, VA, Hortense carried the teachings of God's love and grace into everything she did. She passed these same values on to her daughter and grandchildren, ensuring they too had a strong foundation in their faith by sending them to the same church she grew up in.

In 1963, Hortense married Melvin Boston, also from Portsmouth and a member of the US Air Force. Together, they embarked on a journey that took them across the globe, from Japan to Korea, where Hortense embraced her role as a military wife with grace, leading the Military Wives Group and even earning the title of Cha-Cha dance champion with Melvin. After returning to the States, they settled in Oklahoma and later made their home in Maryland, where she became an avid bowler, achieving an impressive average game of 246 and leading her team to many victories.

Hortense's journey later brought her back to Portsmouth, VA, where she became an active member of the local community-always there for her family, her children's schools, and the church. Her love and support knew no bounds, and she became a beloved member of the "Sisters in Christ" fellowship, where she formed lifelong and treasured friendships.

In the later years of her life, after the passing of her beloved mother, Hortense moved to Houston, TX, to be near her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She visited and lived there for 33 years, becoming the heart and soul of the family. "Grandma" was a title she wore with pride, and she made everyone around her feel loved and supported, no matter the distance. Her spirit was spunky, her heart soft, and her love overflowing.

Hortense leaves behind her daughter, Tonya Boston, of Houston, TX, four grandchildren, Robert Richard (wife Leslie), Jasmine Richard Lomas (husband Yancy), Robert Richard Jr., and Nasir Richard; II great-grandchildren, Yaniecya Lomas, Sainya Dorsey, Treasure Lomas, True Lomas, Trust Lomas, Theory Lomas, Jaydon Richard, K'Amour Lomas, Damarcus Williams; and a lifelong sister-friend, Lavoria Grimstead of Portsmouth, VA. She is also survived by a host of extended family, friends, and honorary grandchildren who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Hortense Boston was more than a mother, grandmother, sister, or friend-she was a beacon of love, joy, and faith. Her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched, and her memory will forever bring warmth to our hearts.

We love you, Hortense, and we are comforted by the knowledge that you are now resting in the arms of your Heavenly Father. Rest in peace, Angel.