Lareuse "Sugar" Townsend (Lansing)

Ms. Lareuse Townsend, affectionately known as “Sugar” went home to be with her Heavenly Father on April 17, 2022. She transitioned at her residence in Lansing, Michigan while she slept at age 85 years old. “Sugar” was born on January 7, 1937, in Scott, Arkansas, She was the second oldest of six children.

“Sugar’s” family moved to Lansing, Michigan when she was three years old. She accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior, which was an important part of her life. “Sugar” received her continuing education diploma in June of 1979. Her first job was at the I & H Grille which was owned by her parents. She found her niche in life in the food & hospitality industry, which led her to the Albert Pick Motor Hotel as the head chef. “Sugar’s” supervisor invited her to take a head chef position at the Ambassador Hotel in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and she accepted. As time went on, she worked at other hospitality jobs in Lansing: The New Way Inn, The Morocco, and Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity.

In retirement, “Sugar” continued her special talent by preparing holiday and Sunday soul food meals for her family and friends. She was a great cook!

“Sugar” leaves to cherish the memory of her life, daughter; Damita Jo Walker of Lansing, Michigan; granddaughters, Shatia (Troy Sr.) Henderson and Latoya Williams both of Lansing, Michigan; a special granddaughter; Candace Baker and family of Canton, Michigan; great-grandchildren, Laurese Swanson of Lancaster, California, Ebonee Swanson of Lansing, Michigan, Troy Jr.(Shawnetta) Henderson of Lansing, Michigan, Christopher Thomas, Shayanne Williams, LaTasia Williams, Destiny Williams, all of Lansing, Michigan, Melissa Williams of Akron, Ohio; special great-grandchild, Serena Baker of Canton, Michigan; 9 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Hildry “Marie” Williams of Cleveland, Ohio; many nieces and nephews; aunt, Mercie Mae Pennington of Woodson, Arkansas; many cousins; sisters-in-law, Dr. Lady Virige (Bishop Aaron) Milton of Lansing, Michigan, Verlean and Sarah Nell Townsend of Lansing, Michigan, other relatives, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Ila and Hildry Williams; great-grandson, Stephan Thomas; siblings, Kenneth Ray Williams, Ila “Sonny” Williams, Bobbie Jean Sellers, and Izealia “Doll” Thompson; special niece, Gwendolyn DuPard; and special uncle, John Withers.