Obituary of Mildred Beckett

As we gather to honor the memory of our beloved Mildred Beckett, we find solace in knowing she lived a vibrant and joyful life, leaving an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Born on August 9, 1933, in Virginia to Claude Beckett and Corrine (Webb), Mildred grew up in a nurturing home alongside her older brother, LeRoy. Her early years were filled with love and laughter. The family's relocation to Philadelphia, PA marked the beginning of Mildred's educational journey, where she discovered her passion for writing, contributing to her school newspaper, and later graduating from William Penn High School. At an early age, Mildred gave her life to Christ and joined Miller Memorial Baptist Church in North Philadelphia. Her dedication extended to her church family where she served faithfully on the Pioneer Usher Board for many years, greeting members with warmth and kindness every week. Mildred's charismatic nature and genuine care for others led her to a fulfilling career as a cashier at Manusov’s Grocery Market. Over her life, she worked in various grocery stores, taking pride in her meticulous skill of properly bagging items, ensuring each customer felt special and valued. In early 1950’s, Mildred met Roland Walker, who would become the father of her two cherished children. She would welcome Kevin in 1956 and Rhonda in 1957. Determined to provide a better life for her children and her parents, Mildred diligently saved until she could purchase a home and moved the family to West Philadelphia. This home became the heart of many family gatherings, where holidays were celebrated with joy, laughter, and the warmth of extended family and friends. Mildred's home was a sanctuary of love, where she cared for her parents and extended family members until their passing. Mildred had an adventurous spirit, always eager to explore new places. She especially enjoyed traveling with her friends and attending shows at the Uptown Theater on Broad Street. Every year, she and her cousin Theasther Wilkinson would plan a summer trip for the family. A culinary artist, Mildred was known for her delectable cakes, which she lovingly baked and sold to friends. It was during her time at Manusov’s that she met her life partner, James Stewart. They shared many happy years together until his passing in 1996. In her later years, Mildred embraced the role of a doting grandmother to Katrina, Tiffany, and Kimberly, nurturing them with the same love and care she had shown her own children. After moving to New Jersey, Mildred continued to work well into her 80’s. Her days were filled with cooking, baking her famous cakes, solving countless crossword puzzles, and enjoying her favorite TV shows like The Steve Harvey Show, Family Feud, The Nanny, Ridiculousness, and Catfish: The TV Show. Mildred's home was always alive with laughter and love, a place where she welcomed everyone with open arms and a radiant smile. Her impeccable fashion sense and sharp wit were matched only by her boundless generosity and unwavering faith. Blessed with 90 years of a life well-lived, Mildred was called home by the Lord on June 22, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Her life is a testament to God’s call to all His disciples: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34) Mildred is preceded in death by her parents Claude and Corrine Beckett, brother and sister-in-law LeRoy and Oretha Beckett, partner James Stewart and other cherished family members and friends. Mildred is survived by her son Kevin Beckett, daughter Rhonda Beckett, granddaughters Katrina Smith, Tiffany Beckett, and Kimberly Marriott, nephews Ronnie Bailey (Lilly), LeRoy Beckett, Jr. (Henrietta), Robert Beckett, niece Denise Beckett, cousins Elton Boggs, Gertrude Carter, and Pamela Cobb (Robert), great-nephew Banjani Hill (Porsha), family friends George, Andrea, Maya and Kaseem LaBoo, Lisa R. Smith, former son-in-law Jeffrey Marriott and a host of beloved relatives and friends. As we remember Mildred, let us carry forward the love, joy, and compassion she shared with us all. Her legacy of kindness and warmth will forever remain in our hearts.