Lovell Williams McWhorter

Lovell Williams McWhorter was born on June 29, 1941, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Mabel McWhorter-Wade and Goldie Williams. He was raised in a family grounded in resilience, faith, and love. At age twelve, after the passing of his grandmother, Willie May Gildersleeve, Lovell moved to Toledo, Ohio, a transition that shaped the course of his life and character.

Lovell attended Scott High School in Toledo, where he proudly played football until a knee injury ended his time on the field. He graduated from high school and soon after answered the call to serve his country, entering the United States Army. He served faithfully for three years, building discipline, strength, and a sense of purpose that would follow him for the rest of his life.

On December 14, 1963, Lovell married the love of his life, Brenda Faye Lewis. Together, they built a strong, joyful, and deeply committed marriage that spanned more than six decades. They raised five beautiful children and were also blessed with a son, Lovell McWhorter Jr., who lived for three precious days before going home to be with the Lord. Lovell was a devoted husband and a proud father, always placing his family at the center of everything he did.

Lovell began his career with Jeep Corporation in Toledo, where he worked for four years before transferring to Chrysler Corporation. There, he built a remarkable 30-year career, retiring as a respected foreman in 1996. Known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Lovell left a lasting impression on coworkers who admired his integrity and dedication.

A man of deep and steadfast faith, Lovell served faithfully for decades at the First Church of God in Toledo, Ohio. He was a deacon, a Man of Armor, a trustee, a mentor to countless young men, and the "go-to" handyman who ensured the church remained a warm, functioning place of worship for its members. His service was sincere, humble, and unwavering, reflecting a life lived with purpose and generosity.

In December 2021, Lovell and his wife retired to Cincinnati, Ohio, to be closer to their children, all of whom graduated from the University of Cincinnati. They joined Christ Emanuel Christian Fellowship, where they were embraced as beloved members. Even in retirement, Lovell continued to bless others with his wisdom, gregarious humor, and willingness to lend a helping hand.

Lovell was preceded in death by his grandmother, Willie May Gildersleeve; his parents, Mabel McWhorter-Wade and Goldie Williams, Sr.; his infant son, Lovell McWhorter Jr.; his brothers, Goldie Williams, Jr. and Larry Williams.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife of sixty-two years, Brenda Faye McWhorter; his loving children: Kevin McWhorter (Mary), Kraig McWhorter (Nicole), Kia McWhorter, Kelly McWhorter, Ketrell McWhorter-Greenlea (Shawn); grandchildren: Kianna McWhorter, Briana Boyd, Ariel McWhorter, Aliah McWhorter, Kendall McWhorter, Krystin McWhorter; great-grandchildren: Carmichael Brown, Jr., Kayden Freeman, Courtney Brown, Carson Brown; his brother, Tyrone Williams; his sister, Marva Jean Edwards; and a host of extended family members, church family, and friends. Each one carries forward his legacy of faith, hard work, kindness, and an unwavering love for family.

Lovell's life was a testimony of strength, service, and dignity. His presence blessed many, and his legacy will continue to shine through the generations he lovingly nurtured. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of God he so faithfully lived out.