Denitra LaShun Hammond

Sunrise March 15, 1968

t Sunset February 21, 2023

Denitra Hammond LaShun

Saturday, March 4, 2023 10:00 A.M.

Thankful Missionary Baptist Church 935 Spider Webb Drive Rome, Georgia 30161

Dr. Bartholomew Orr, Sr.,

Senior Pastor

Brown Missionary Baptist Church

Southaven, Mississippi Officiatiant

Life & Legacy

Denitra “LaShun” Hammond was born on March 15, 1968, to the proud parents of Mr. Roston Wimbley Beard and Ms. Rachel Hammond (Redwine) in Rome, Georgia. As a little girl, LaShun, as she was affectionately called by her family and friends, grew up in West Rome and attended West Rome High School. As a proud Chieftain, LaShun played basketball, served as a devout cadet of the United States Air Force ROTC Chieftain Battalion, and was a rising track star competing in the 100 meter race and the 4x100 relay. As an avid lover of football, LaShun became an athletic trainer just so she could travel with the team to cheer them on as they became the 1985 AA Georgia State Champs. A 1986 graduate of West Rome High School, LaShun matriculated to Tennessee State University (TSU) in the spring of 1987 where she was an even prouder TSU Tiger. LaShun received a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications in 1991 and a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in 1994. Upon the completion of her graduate degree, LaShun began teaching and developed a love and passion for educating youth. In 1995, she relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, where she attended LeMoyne-Owen College. It was there she obtained her teaching certification and later accepted a position with Memphis City Schools as a third-grade teacher at Double Tree Elementary.

After residing in Memphis for just a short time, LaShun met Craig LaShawn Williams during the summer of 1995. The two would later marry in 1997 and through their union, they became the proud parents of four sons, Kylan LaShaun (July 26, 1996 - January 24, 1997), Micah LaShawn, Christian LaShawn and Craig LaShawn Williams, II. While the two are no longer married, LaShun and LaShawn remained loving parents and friends.

In 2001, LaShun and her family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she accepted a position with the Dekalb County School system, teaching at Browns Mill Elementary. During her tenure at Browns Mill, she was regarded as one of the school’s most energetic and high-spirited teachers.

In 2005, LaShun and her family moved to Seoul, South Korea, where she accepted a position with the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA). In her role, she served as a Department of Defense Dependent Schools (DODDS) 7th grade science teacher at Seoul American Middle School (SAMS), located on the United States Garrison Yongsan Army Base. “Denitra” as she was affectionately called by her Seoul peers and friends, took great pride in teaching military and civilian dependents from all over the world. She was actively involved in the academic and extra-curricular success of her students and proudly served as the sponsor for the SAMS Yearbook Committee and as head coach for the SAMS Basketball and Track teams. She also dedicated her coaching skills to the Seoul American High School (SAHS) by serving as an assistant coach for the Girls Basketball and Track teams.

LaShun resided in Seoul for 13 years, proudly witnessing her three sons ─Micah, Christian and Craig─ graduate from Seoul American High School. In 2018, after the transitional closing of the Garrison Yongsan Army Base, LaShun moved to Pyeongtaek, South Korea, where she continued to teach 7th grade science at Camp Humphreys Middle School. In 2019, she returned to the United States, settling in Savannah, Georgia, to be closer to her sons and family.

LaShun accepted a position with Charles F. Bolden Elementary School in Beaufort, South Carolina, where she remained a DODDS/DODEA employee until her untimely passing, completing a 28-year career as an exceptional and dedicated educator.

LaShun cherished her sons and was a devoted mother. Everyone who was blessed to have known her knew, without a doubt, how much she loved and supported them in all of their endeavors. LaShun also enjoyed loving on one of her favorite gifts from her sons, her beloved miniature poodle, Baylor.

LaShun possessed a strong faith in God and with a positive attitude, beautiful smile and willingness to help others, she lived life to the fullest.

On Tuesday, February 21, 2023, Denitra LaShun Hammond departed her earthly home surrounded by those she loved. She was preceded in death by her first born son, Kylan LaShaun Williams; grandmothers Louise Hammond and Rosa Lee Beard; grandfathers John Henry Hammond and Roston Lee Beard; aunts Myrtice Hammond, Thelma Hammond, Sheila Hammond, Mary Cooper and Ellen Elliot; and uncles Lamar Hammond, Louis Hammond, Lennoise Hammond, Harry Hammond and John Willie Hammond.

She leaves to cherish her memory and legacy her beloved sons Micah Williams, Christian Williams and Craig Williams, II; mother Rachel Redwine; sisters Tamika M. Hammond and Stephanie Boyd; bonus sisters Rhonda Redwine and Nekicia Redwine; brother Reginald Beard; loving sister-cousin Jaqueline Hammond; aunts Mary Hammond, Mildred Hammond (Daniel), Shileye McCombs-King, Taffie Jean Kirby, Elwonda Hammond, Pamela Ware and Sonya Hammond; uncles Carl Hammond, Julian Hammond, Timothy Hammond, Raymond Hammond and Jackie Beard; nephew Marcus Miller, Jr.; nieces Kaylee Hammond, Camryn Beard and Charlize Beard. A host of special friends, sorority sisters, cousins, and students that became extended family.

Fortitude

Denitra sought to become a part of a sisterhood that she beheld as a student on the campus of Tennessee State University. Her quest and journey lead her to the Nashville Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where in the spring of 1994, she alongside 52 other women, earned their place in the hallowed halls of Delta, with their names being forever inscribed as members of this illustrious sorority. As a member of The Phenomenal 53, Denitra, #28, would be given the line name “Swiss Mocha.’’ From this moment, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., would become a lifelong commitment of Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service for Denitra.

In 1995, Denitra moved to Memphis, Tennessee, and remained an active financial member with the Memphis Alumnae Chapter. There, she worked diligently on various committees and service projects. When her family moved to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2001, she transferred her membership to the Stone Mountain-Lithonia Alumnae Chapter.

Upon relocating to Seoul, South Korea, in 2005, Denitra became excited to learn that there was a far west chapter of Delta overseas. A few days following her arrival in Korea, she met sorors and lifelong friends who welcomed her into the Republic of Korea Alumnae Chapter (ROK). Denitra truly loved being a ROK Delta as demonstrated by her 13 years of service within the chapter. She displayed her dedication by serving in leadership roles including: chair of the Delta Extravaganza, co-chair of the Jabberwock Cotillion, co-chair of the International Sisterhood Retreat and chair of the International Awareness Committee. She also served as the financial secretary, and as chapter treasurer. As a result of her hard work, she was honored as the ROK’s Delta of the Year before returning to the United States.

Denitra continued her work with Delta Sigma Theta by becoming a member of the Savannah Alumnae Chapter. She served Delta also by mentoring others and by supporting chapter activities regularly. Denitra enjoyed spending time and working with her sorority sisters. Delta will forever hold a special place in her heart.

Order of Service

Dr. Bartholomew Orr, Sr., Officiant

Prelude

Processional .............................................................................................. The Family (Please stand)

Prayer of Comfort ................................................................................. Dr. Bartholomew Orr, Sr.

Scripture (Old & New Testament) ..................................... Thankful M.B. Church Deacon’s Ministry

Solo - Safe in His Arms ..........................................................................Tamika Parks-Fitzgibbons

Expressions to our Mother ................................................................................Christian Williams

Expressions to my Daughter .................................................................................. Rachel Redwine

Solo - I Love The Lord............................................................................Altovise Johnson-Andrews

Reflections (Three minutes please)

Rome Crew

Memphis Crew

Korea Crew

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Phenomenal 53 (Line Sisters)

Solo - There’s A Leak In This Old Building ................................................................. Britne` Orr

Obituary (Read Silently)

Proclamations & Acknowledgments .................................................................. Dr. Dale Williams

Eulogy ................................................................................................... Dr. Bartholomew Orr, Sr.

Solo - When The Gates Swing Open .......................................................... Britne’ Orr & Organist

Committal .............................................................................................

Dr. Bartholomew Orr, Sr.

Benediction ........................................................................................... Dr. Bartholomew Orr, Sr.

Recessional

Beloved t

Somewhere in our hearts beneath all of our grief and pain, Is a smile we’ll still wear at the sound of your dear name. The precious word is ‘Mother’, she was our world you see, But now our hearts are breaking cause she’s no longer here with us three. God chose her for His angel to watch us from above, To guide us and advise us and know that we’re still loved. The day she had to leave us when her life on earth was through, God had better plans for her, for this, we surely knew.

When we think of her kind heart and all those loving years, Our memories surround us and we can’t hold back the tears. She truly was our best friend, someone we could confide in, She always had a tender touch and a warm and gentle grin. We want to thank you Mother for teaching us so well, And though the time has come that we must bid you this farewell. We’ll remember all you’ve taught us and we’ll make you proud you’ll see. Thank you my Dear Mother for all the love you’ve shown us three.

Although you’ve left this earth and now you’ve taken flight, I know that you are here with us each morning, noon and night. Mother you’ve raised us to be men of standards with integrity these we’ll hold high, Just know when conversations need to be had we’ll just look to the sky. Mother just know we love you and we’ll be okay, We’ll never forget the love you gave us each day.

We Love You Momma!

Micah, Christian & Craig

The Beginning of Life of our Daughter t

You're Forever in My Heart

LaShun, for all you were to me in life, And all the joy you brought, Your memory is with me, In every single thought. The pain I felt at losing you, Will never go away, But knowing that you’re in my heart, Helps me through each day. When you were here I always felt, That nothing could go wrong, But you’re still my inspiration, And though my heart is heavy, It’s also full of love, And that’s enough to comfort me, While you’re in Heaven above.

I’ll always love You, Momma

In Loving Memory of My Special Daughter

LaShun, the day you left and gained your wings

My heart just broke in two I wish you could have stayed here on earth, But Heaven needed you You left me with so many memories And I love you dearly still No matter how much time goes by I know I always and forever will You were a very loving and caring person With kindness and forgiveness in your heart

And the love we had together Grows stronger now that we are apart I know I cannot bring you back Although I wish it every single day

A huge piece of me went with you The day you went away

I will always love you my special daughter For always and forever and a day

Love Always, Dad

A Siblings Love

To our Loving Big Sister in Heaven

Our time together was special

So were the many sweet memories we made

Although you live in Heaven now

Those precious memories will never fade

We close our eyes and bow in silence

And remember our big sister with love

And we know you are up there in Heaven

Smiling and watching from above

Every day has been a struggle

And nothing feels the same

And our heart smiles but breaks a little

Every time we think of you and hear your name

You will always be loved, cherished, and remembered

And time may one day heal our heart

But a piece of us is missing

Since the day we had to part

If Heaven is for angels

Then we know without a doubt that is where you will be

And we know you will be waiting with a huge grin and open arms

When Heaven calls for me

We will miss you forever

And ever and ever

And ever

We Love You Always, Stephanie, Reggie, Tamika, Rhonda & Nekecia

Big Cuz t Letting Go

The angels gathered near your side So very close to you For they knew the pain and suffering That you were going through I thought about so many things As I held tightly to your hand Oh, how I wished that you were strong And happy once again

But your eyes were looking homeward To that place beyond the sky Where Jesus held His outstretched arms It was time to say good-bye

I struggled with my selfish thoughts For I wanted you to stay So we could walk and talk again Like we did…..just yesterday

But Jesus knew the answer And I knew you loved Him so So I gave to you life’s greatest gift The gift of letting go

Love, Cousin - Jackie

The Crew

There once was a girl from Rome, GA that came to Tennessee State She would meet many people in which she could relate. But those who seemed particularly fun and new, Would later be known as her Memphis Crew. As fate would have it, she would live in Memphis one day. And this strengthened her bond with so many friends in such a special way. Her crew, her people, her Sorors and her friends. Her Memphis Crew today and back then. The Crew will miss your joy, your laughter, and your smile. We thank God, he gave you to us for just a little while. We won’t forget your presence in our lives. And we will continue to keep your memory alive. Rest well friend, your work is not through. We will keep it going-your Memphis Crew!

With Love for Ever, Dale, DeShonna, Dolores, Toni, LaTonya, Rachael & KaTrina

To Those Whom I Love & Those Who Love Me

When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do, You mustn't tie yourself to me with too many tears, But be thankful we had so many good years. I gave you my love, and you can only guess. How much you've given me in my happiness. I thank you for the love that you have shown, But now it is time that I travel alone. So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must, Then let your grief be comforted by trust. It is only for a while that we must part, So, treasure the memories within your heart. I won't be far away for life goes on. And if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can't see or touch me, I will be near. And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear, All my love around you is soft and clear. And then, when you come this way alone, I'll greet you with a smile and a 'Welcome Home'.

“I’ll always love each of you whomever I was too you!”

Daughter, Sister, Momma, Soror, Denitra, LaShun or Ms. Hammond

tTo My Brothers,

Momma is okay she’s smiling and rejoicing here with me, I met her and welcomed her by holding her hand in this wondrous place we’ll all get to see. She’s at peace with her smile so bright, together we walked into the light. I see Heaven’s wonder in her face and the love of God in her eyes, So remember the good times and the memories made they’ve been captured with each sunrise. If her parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss.

Oh yes, these things, she too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, look for the sunshine of tomorrow. Her life’s been full, she savored much. good friends, good times, and each one of your touch. Perhaps her time seems all too brief. don’t lengthen your time with undue grief. Lift up your heart and peace to thee, God wanted her now – he set her free. Love, Kylan

Acknowledgements

We, the family of Denitra LaShun Hammond, extend our profound gratitude to the many friends and loved ones who have shown love and kindness during this very difficult time. Your visits, calls, cards, flowers, and other expressions of condolences will always be remembered. Please know that when our loss seemed too great, we looked up and our friends shared so many kind words, both written and spoken. With faces smiling and hearts open, you comforted us and shared our grief. God will continue to bless us -this we know- and keep granting relief. Our gratitude cannot be adequately expressed with words, but they are the best that we can offer during this test. “Thank You” for lifting our clouds and letting the sunshine through.

The Hammond & Williams Family

“What is broken can be mended. What hurts can be healed. No matter how hard it gets, the Son will rise again.”

I Love You All, LaShun

Active Pallbearers

Myles Haynes

Michael Haynes, Jr.

Marcus Miller, Jr.

David M. Rivers, IV

Dewayne Murray

Darrius Jones

Spencer Hammond

Darion Morton

Gene Robinson, III

Honorary Pallbearers

Carlos Hill

Jalen Hill

Gene Robinson, II

Thankful Missionary Baptist Church - Gymnasium

Repast

935 Spider Webb Drive

Rome, Georgia 30161

Internment

Morning View Cemetery

Hwy 53

Rome, Georgia 30161

Arrangements Entrusted

F.K. Jones Funeral Home

1205 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Rome, Georgia 30161