daughter, sister, and mother of six children was called home to be with the Lord. She was at the
tender age of 76.
Lena was born on Thursday, July 6, 1944 at 5:30 am in Thomaston, Alabama to James E.
Catlin and Pinkie M. (George) Catlin. She was an English major in college and later went into
the medical field. She is also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star (OES). Lena worked
within the medical field for 30 years in Queens, NY. She has one daughter, Tanisha A., five
sons, Saladean, Richard, Rasheed, Karim, and Lonnie.
Mommy has left a little too soon. It's alright now because you have no more pain nor
suffering. A part of me was lost upon your untimely call home. Just knowing that you are in
heaven makes my melancholic state turn into one of joy. I will see you again and oh, the
rejoicing we will do. I love you with all my heart and soul. You are my rock as I am yours.
-Lonnie
Through my ups and downs, smiles and frowns Chubby you were there for me. From my life
to yours, your presence will always be felt. Sleep and rest well, my Chubbs! Chubby you are
free of all pain, hurt, and suffering. -LOVE Richard
Mommy was a FIGHTER! Mommy was a very strong, independent, and determined lady. I
enjoyed listening to her give her opinions without flinching or apology. Mommy loved music,
every Sunday we listened to No Charge by Dr. Shirley Caesar and Peanut Butter and Jelly by
The Truthettes. During the week, mommy played her all-time favorite song, Kiss and Say
Goodbye by The Manhattan. She enjoyed spending quality time with her grandson, Zechariah
Kenis (Pooh Bear) and great grandson, Christopher Jr.(Cornbread). She would look forward to
them coming in her room with her water and to pray with her. -Nisha (Grandma)
Lena is preceded in death by both her parents, James E. (father) and Pinkie M. (mother); her
sister, Doris; her brothers, Charles and Robert. She is survived by her six children, Saladean,
Tanisha, Richard, Rasheed, Karim, and Lonnie. Lena has a daughter-in-law, Shalonda. She has
several cousins, nieces, nephews who will miss her dearly. Lena has thirteen grandchildren with
the youngest, ZechariahKenis (Pooh Bear) being near and dear to her heart. She has one
grandson-in-law, Christopher; and seven great grandchildren with Christopher (Cornbread)
being her partner in crime.
Lena will have her home going services held on Saturday, January 16, 2021 at the
Cusimano and Russo Funeral Home, 2005 West 6th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11223. There
will be viewing starting at 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm with a service from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. After
the services, we will proceed to drive her body around Nostrand and Myrtle Avenues. Upon
completion of cremation, there will be a memorial service on July 3, 2021. Cards or donations
may be sent to 307 Country Ridge Drive, Red Lion, PA 17356.
Fill Not Your Hearts
Fill not your hearts with pain and
sorrow, but remember me in every
tomorrow. Remember the joy, the
laughter, the smiles. I’ve only gone
to rest a while. Although my leaving
causes pain and grief, my going has
eased my hurt and given me relief.
So dry your eyes and remember me,
not as I am but as I used to be.
Because, I will remember you all and
look on with a smile. Understand in
your hearts, I’ve only gone to rest
awhile. As long as I have the love
of you, I can live my life in the
hearts of all of you.
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