LouGene Tapp

SEPTEMBER 15, 1925 – AUGUST 19, 2016

Lou Gene Tapp of San Bernardino County went home to be with the Lord peacefully in her sleep on Friday August 19, 2016 in Colton, CA, at the age of 90, while in the care of Western Rehabilitation Center where she received outstanding care from the Administration, Nursing and Physical Therapy staff.

Lou Gene was born September 15, 1925 in McKinney Texas to Idell G. Washington & Saphalia R.H. Banks (both preceding her in death). She attended Dallas Texas Public Schools and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in June 1940. After graduation Lou Gene attended Prairie View A&M University for two years. In March 1944 she moved to Los Angeles CA, joining her mother who preceded her in that move. On August 29, 1945 Lou Gene married her childhood sweetheart Percy L. Tapp, who preceded her in death in 1989.

The family remained in Los Angeles until 1951. In August 1951 the family moved to San Bernardino where she joined the congregation of St. Paul A.M.E. Church and remained a member in good standing for 65 plus years, until her death. She became a member and officer of the Young Matrons Organization at St. Paul and also served the Wedding Coordinator for many years.

Throughout her life Lou Gene was a Civil Rights participant in racial and gender equality matters. In the late 40’s she was the first African American Woman to be employed by Empire Furniture Store as an accounting administrator. While in San Bernardino she was employed as the Office Manager for Labors Union Local Number 783, AFLCIO for 35 plus years. Again she broke the color and gender barriers. She was awarded the A. Phillip Randolph Institute Person of Excellence in 1981. She retired from the Labor Union in 1990.

Lou Gene leaves to cherish her memories a son Melvin B. Tapp (Telisa), and daughters, Paula T. Hayes (Michael), Terri L. Tapp, and Sandra E. Tapp A.K.A. Chickee. In addition Lou Gene has been blessed with six grandchildren; Tanya Smallwood, Tyrone Tapp, Erin Tapp, Lauren Tapp, Michael Hayes and Morgan Tapp. Two great grandchildren: Grayson Tapp and Zoey Grace Tapp, and a host of relatives, in-laws and surrogate sons and daughters which made life interesting and fulfilling throughout her ninety years. She showed us love grace forgiveness and character building attributes for our lives. We thank God for the blessings of Lou Gene Tapp in our lives. Amen.