Lequella Worthy

Lequella Worthy, affectionately known as "Lee'' was born on October 22, 1953 to the late Charlie and Mazola Johnson in Toledo, Ohio. Lee passed away surrounded by the love of her numerous family and friends that had been by her side on September 26, 2023 at the age of 69 at home.

Lee worked at Riverside Hospital for over 15 years where she honed her great leadership skills as a tray line worker and diet clerk. In typical Lequella fashion she strived to provide a better future for her and her boys by enrolling at Stautzenberger College while working full time. Upon earning her Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS) Lee was able to transfer her skills and talents to the Financial and Information Systems Departments at Riverside Hospital.

Lequella spent 32 years at Substance Abuse Service Initiative (SASI) and the Zepf Center as a data entry clerk as well as a variety of other unofficial positions. The dedication and passion Lee possessed shined brightly as she willingly took on additional tasks by encouraging and holding many of the clients accountable through their sobriety. Going above and beyond the call of duty was one of her many yet best attributes, an example of this could be seen daily when Lee would arrive at work an hour early before the doors were scheduled to open so that the clients did not have to wait out in the cold.

Lee was devoted to her family, friends and community. She encouraged her many children, family, and friends to secure their future by going to college, perfecting their God given talents or building upon their natural abilities which would allow them to be independent. Lee was a huge advocate for her community and culture and would seize every opportunity to lift her voice and the voice of others through politics and community organization. Lee made her presence known by being one of the founding members of the Black Women's Democratic Caucus, an organization that uplifted and empowered women in the political arena and served as their treasurer for many years. Lee formed a long-lasting friendship with Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson that stretched back to her initial campaign and became a valuable member of her team. Her desire to lend a helping hand, financial expertise and being a stickler for accuracy while following the rules often placed Lee over many organizations' treasury and notary departments.

Lequella enjoyed being a mentor, sharing her knowledge, laughing and spending time with her family and friends, especially attending the sporting and talent events of the young people in her family and friend circle. Several years ago Lee began a wonderful tradition of making handmade crocheted blankets for all the graduating seniors in her family. These blankets are cherished and guarded dearly by each recipient because Lee poured so much love into each and every one of them. Lee was always the first one to step up and take care of EVERYONE in any and every way possible! Lequella will be dearly missed and cherished forever in the many hearts that she touched with the undeniable and unconditional love she gave so freely.

Lequella leaves to celebrate her life and legacy beloved children James (Rudi) Worthy and Charles Worthy Jr; adored "Granny" of Allanna Esquivel, Shalaya Esquivel, Alexis Sparks, Bre'Anna Worthy-Smith, Jayda Worthy, Jazmyn Worthy, Laryah Worthy, Tamyah Worthy, Charles Worthy III, Myracle Worthy; treasured great-grandmother of Talaya Talbott, Talia Talbott, Zion Sparks, and Mason Smith; sister of Butch (Shirley) Johnson, Nathalene Pettaway, Marvin (Rhonda) Johnson, Marilyn Lewis, Gregory (Amy), Johnson, Terri Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Lee was preceded in death by both parents, brother, Robert Johnson; sister, Jean Williams; and her grandson, Jermon Esquivel .

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at Newcomer Funeral Home - Southwest Chapel at 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd. Toledo, OH 43614 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home - Southwest Chapel at 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd. Toledo, OH 43614.

Lequella will be laid to rest at Willow Cemetery following the funeral service. A repass will be held at Lifeway Church (formally United Church of God) at 701 Phillips Ave. Toledo, Ohio 43612