Racine, WI – The gift of life is the greatest blessing that one will ever possess because it comes from God, who is the very essence of life.  However, there is a beginning and an ending to everything.  Mother Lela E. Moore, the beloved wife of the late Deacon James A. Moore, journey began on July 12, 1942 in Okolona, Mississippi. Mother Moore's journey through life ended on January 21, 2020.

Lela was the ninth child born to Willie and Mary (Gates) Hamilton. At the age of 12, Lela's family relocated to Racine, Wisconsin.  She was educated in the public school system, graduating from Washington Park High School.  Lela was married to the late William Henry Streeter.  In 1973, she married the late Deacon James A. Moore.  They were happily married for 38 years. Lela retired as a school bus driver.  She was also employed with Voorlas Mfg. for many years.  Lela's quest to ensure worker's rights lead to her becoming President of the Union.  Lela's Christian walk began with Second Missionary Baptist Church.  While there she was a member of the following ministries; Gospel Chorus, Mass Choir, Missionary Department, Gem Stones, and she served as Office Assistant.  Lela and Deacon Moore later moved their membership to St. Paul Baptist Church.  After the passing of Deacon Moore, Lela became a member of Zoe Outreach Ministries where she served on the Mother's Board.  2 Timothy 2:15 says "study to show thyself approved" is a testament to Lela's love for studying God's word. She regularly attended Sunday School and graduated from the Christian Education Program-COPP directed by the late Dr. William A. Lofton.  Lela was also an avid bowler and civic leader.

Lela leaves to embrace her precious memories, her daughters, Barbra Buckley, Joyce Howell, Jacqueline Reynolds, Carmen White (James Barker), and Hope Smith; son Tim Brown. Lela and Deacon Moore raised grandchildren; Rance (Aurora) Streeter, Shaqueta Streeter and James Barker III.  Also to cherish her memories are 14 grandchildren, and 27 great grandchildren.  She had a special bond with great-granddaughter Tanira (Poonie) Hamilton-Ford, and great-great grandson Tristan Carter Houston.  Lela will forever have a special place in the hearts of her sisters, Idella Hargrove, Dessie Morris, Rosie Riley, Elvira Bumpus and Ruby Hamilton, and brother Claude Hamilton Sr. Special nephew Joenathan Gholston Jr. and God-daughter J'aaliayha A. Wagner will also cherish her memories. Over the years, Lela and Deacon Moore were foster parents to many.  Those close to her heart are; Anne (John) Wangaard, Frannie (RaQim) Al-Salahuddin, and Chris Allen.  She loved and adored her friends and extended families James and Ethel Brown, Conaway and Alice Johnson, Mary Bowden, the Walker, Streeter and Boykin families.

Lela was preceded in death by her husband, daughter Arinessie Streeter, granddaughter Kayomi Streeter, grandson Artist Echoles, her parents, sisters Laudellia Atterberry and Hattie Mayfield, brothers Andy Hamilton Sr. and Willie Hamilton Jr.

A Celebration of Her Life will be held on Friday, January 31, 2020 11:00am at New Omega Baptist Church, 5731 Northwestern Ave, Racine, WI.  Visitation will be in the church from 10:00am until the time of service.  Pastor Melvin D. Hargove will be officiating.  Interment will be in Graceland Cemetery.

Service Details

Funeral: Friday, January 31, 2020  11:00am

Visitation: Friday, January 31, 2020 10:00am – 11:00am

Location: New Omega Baptist Church, 5731 Northwestern Ave., Racine, WI

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