Marie Greer

Marie Greer, 86, (formerly of Racine) passed from this life into the next on January 11, 2007 from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. She was the last of 10 children born to Millie Ann McPherson on April 22, 1920. Her father was Jim Peoples. At an early age she married Charley Ramsey and to this union two children were born, Jesse and Leola. On January 23, 1943 in Arkansas she was united in marriage to William Charles Greer, Sr. Marie and William were married for 54 years at the time of his death in 1997. From this union two children were born, William Jr. and Joyce. In 1952, she moved with her family to Racine, WI. Marie was an excellent cook, an accomplished singer, and an inspired storyteller. She practiced her culinary skills in her own kitchen and at the Corner House Restaurant (Racine) where she worked for 40 years. She had a life long love of music that she passed along to her children and grand children. In her 20’s she was the lead singer of a female quartet, The Friendly Four, which was renowned in Newbern, Tennessee and the surrounding area. She also trained young and upcoming congregational song leaders. After moving to Racine, she participated enthusiastically in congregational and ensemble singing at her church. Marie’s storytelling ability made her the center of attention at any gathering. Her best stories were reenactments of actual events that she recounted with spot on vocal impersonations, perfect dramatic or comedic timing, and exquisite attention to detail. Growing up in her home was like growing up in the theatre. A performance that was guaranteed to hold your attention from beginning to end was always in progress or about to begin. Besides her family, Marie’s other love was her church. She became a member of the Church of Christ as a young woman and remained a faithful member of the congregations in Newbern, TN, Racine, WI, and Philadelphia, PA. She loved a well-delivered sermon and would often invite the minister and his family to her home after service for one of her legendary Sunday dinners, which were always followed by acappella singing. Her faith sustained her through life’s trials and sweetened its triumphs. Marie leaves to celebrate her life, four children, Jesse (Cora) Ramsey, of Inverness, MS, Leola Howzie of Milwaukee, WI, William (Peggy) Greer Jr. of Madison, WI, Joyce (Bill) Johnson of Philadelphia, PA, and her “other son,” Luther (Gwen) Byles of Racine, WI.; one grandson; six granddaughters; one great granddaughter, and a host of fond relatives and friends. Her Homegoing and funeral service will be celebrated at Midtown Church of Christ (1704 13th St.) on Friday, January 19, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. with Brother John Wright officiating. Burial will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park. There will be a visitation in the church on Friday from 10-11 a.m. Marie’s children would like to thank the staff of the Philadelphia Protestant Home for the skilled and compassionate care they gave our mother during the last years of her life. Their special attention to her physical and emotional needs have earned them a permanent place in our hearts and prayers. Finally, we would like to thank God for providing us with a mother for the ages. Our grief is tempered by the knowledge that she is reunited in heaven with the love of her life.