Millissa was born November 13, 1939 to the late Mr. John Reed and Mrs. Essie Bell Lloyd (Stowers). She was the oldest of eleven children. She attended the public schools in Jacksonville and at an early age moved to Albany, NY where she studied cosmetology and became one of the best Barbers known. While living in New York, she attended Israel African Methodist Episcopal Church and was affiliated with many church and social organizations.
Later in life at the request of her mother Esssie Stowers, Millissa moved back to Jacksonville, where she continued her career as a Barber and soon returned back to her first love, Payne Chapel AMEC, where she was a faithful member of Usher Board #2, Courtesy Guild, Celestine Waye Mass Choir, Women of Payne Choir, and Pillars of Faith. Millissa also, was a dedicated member of the “INCOMPARABLE LADIES CLUB” for 34 years. Mrs. Shirley J. Harris, President and her aunt, Helen Bruce and mother, Essie Stowers being Co-Founder of such a prestigious Organization.
Millissa was preceded in death by her brothers, Gerald L. Reed, Sr., Nathan A. Cash, James L. Cash, Sr., Joseph L. Stowers, and Lernita E. Stowers.
Millissa leaves to cherish her memories: son, Rance Tyler Rhodes; adopted sons, Joshua and Devin Hayes; and Gerald L. Reed, Jr. (Rance’s brother beloved); granddaughter, Jania Rhodes; brother, Lester H. Stowers (Shirley); sisters, Vernita L. Stowers, Gwendolyn F. Washington (Atlanta), Rev. Jean V.S. Davis and Joan C. Horace (Tampa); aunts, Evangelist Shirley Armstrong and Rosa Lee Hickson, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A special acknowledgement goes out to Sis. Darlene Nicholson for the dedication and devoted love she provided to our sister during her time of need and Dr. Quan Glover (son beloved).
Millissa’s life and legacy will forever be remembered and cherished by those she loved and those that loved her.
The funeral service for Mildred Millissa Jenkins Clowers will be held 11:00 am, SATURDAY, July 13th, 2019 at the Greater Payne A.M.E. Church, 1230 Claudia Spencer St. Jacksonville, FL 32206. The visitation will be 5 -7:00 pm, Friday at the mortuary. Interment in Restlawn Cemeteries. Please sign the family guest book and view the video tribute @ www.tswarden.com. Arrangements in care of Tyrone S. Warden, FDIC, 4315 N. Main Street, 765-1234