Myrtle Irene Person

On March 28, 1933, Myrtle Irene Smith was born to the late Thom and Alice Smith in Russellville, AL. Shortly after Myrtle migrated to Ohio, she met and fell in love with Booker Person, Jr. in 1951. The two became one in holy matrimony on March 8, 1962. To this union, 7 beautiful children were born. Myrtle and Booker were inseparable; they were each other’s best friends. They loved to travel together during their younger years, and later in life they simply enjoyed watching movies and eating good food with one another. Their love lasted until Booker’s passing on November 21, 2008, Myrtle cared for her husband until the end.

Myrtle was a devout Christian who confessed Christ at an early age and was a member of Greater Bethel Baptist Church under the pastorship of Rev. William K. Hawkins. She continued to attend Greater Bethel Baptist Church under the pastorship of her youngest son until her health no longer allowed her. Upon transitioning to a nursing home, she found a place at Kingdom Restoration under the pastorship of Pastor Shiloh. Even in old age, Myrtle sang of her love of Jesus. His Spirit was in her to the very end.

Myrtle was mostly a homemaker, ensuring that the house was tidy, and things were orderly for her family of 9 and their daily activities. She obtained work at Central Dispatch cleaning surgical supplies, as well as some nursing aide and factory work. However, nothing triumphed over her duties as a wife and mother.

In her younger years, she was known for her incredible taste in fashion which rubbed off on her children and grandchildren. Myrtle was a jack of all trades, she could do your hair, sew your clothing, and cook you an incredible meal. She was especially known for her peach cobbler; it’s said that it was so well crafted that the ice cream tasted as if it was built in! The holidays were her favorite, she could gather around her family and indulge in delicious meals!

Myrtle was a nurturing person. She taught people how to be strong and instilled self-confidence in them. As long as she had it, she would be willing to sacrifice it for someone who needed it more. Her heart embraced people of all kinds; she never judged anyone! Myrtle has left a mark on those who love her. She was a trailblazer for many things in her family and will be extremely missed.

On the evening of Wednesday, November 13, 2024, after a final goodbye with all her beloved children, Myrtle Irene Person responded to the Lord’s call to Glory at the blessed age of 91. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband and best friend of 46 years, Booker Person, Jr.; parents, Thom and Alice Smith; brothers, James (Helen) Nelson, Thomas (Hattie) Smith, Jake (Gracie Mae) Smith, Odell Smith, Welford Smith and Emmit (Barbara) Smith; sisters, Willie D. (J.T.) Beecher, Mattie (Walter) McGowan, Margie (Herman) Smith, Betty (Raymond) Watson, Joanne (Joe) Mills and Emma

(Willie) Shropshire; grandsons, Donte Person and Sgt. Michael Beecher; and special friends, Helen Bell and Sister Stone. Left to cherish her memory and continue her legacy, children, Diane, Lottie, Larry, Rose, Gail, Pastor Booker (Vickie), and Mearlin (John); 17 grandchildren; as well as a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.