Rachel B. Crenshaw

Rachel Bell Crenshaw was born in Panama City, Florida to the late Earle and Isabell McClain; she spent her early years in Panama City, Florida. After meeting her late husband (C. Arthur) of 55 years, who preceded her in death in October 2021. Rachel relocated to Albion and later to Jackson between 1975 and 1976 through her union with her late husband C. Arthur. Together they raised nine children: five daughters and four sons.

Rachel was a homemaker and a relentless student. She received her High School Diploma through the adult education program at John George Hall. In 1991, she attended Spring Arbor College, where she received her Bachelors of Art degree in Psychology in 1995.

Rachel was baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost under the late Herman Cross of Omega Temple Church. As a devoted wife she supported the decision and followed the leadership of her late husband’s to Bethlehem Temple. Through Rachel’s life of salvation she served as a part of the women’s ministry and reading of scripture to support the Pastor. Rachel also served as Bethlehem Temple Sunday School Secretary.

She loved cooking and frequently attended fellowship breakfast and luncheons to engage in social conversations with her sisters in Christ. She enjoyed attending church and singing praises and hymns unto the Lord. Rachel was adorned by all who were graced with her presence. She had a God-given ability to affect and touch the hearts and lives of others through her bold, honest, and graceful personality.

Rachel’s memories will continue to be cherished by her children: Michelle Hurst (Ricky), Jackson, Michigan; Timothea Bow (Denny), Ypsilanti, Michigan; Carolyn Crenshaw, Romulus, Michigan; Wendy Crenshaw, Summerset, Virginia; Eric Crenshaw, Kinross, Michigan; Robert Crenshaw, Jackson, Michigan; Michah Crenshaw (deceased 2019); David Crenshaw, Jackson, Michigan; Kaylah Crenshaw, Jackson, Michigan.

Twelve grandchildren: Quinn McClain, Christian, and Amber Hurst; Devin, Cameron, and Courtney Bow; Johnathan and Xavier Crenshaw; Eric Jr. Crenshaw; Emmanuel Thomas; Michah, Chaniah and Makiah Crenshaw; Kennedy Crenshaw. Three great-grandchildren.

Two brothers: The children of Cash McClain (deceased), Timothy Washington (Shirley), Panama City, Florida; By the children of One Sister: Ethel Washington Wilson (deceased).

Special Friends: Mable Glaspie, Mother Eggleton, Sister Butler and her Church Family of Bethlehem Temple.