Curtis "Robert" Cleveland

He was an honest, loyal, dedicated man of integrity who worked very diligently to provide for his family and to assist others whenever needed. He began his educational journey at Peabody Elementary then progressed to Jones St. Jr. High and moved on to Peabody High School where he graduated. Eyes set on service and success, the ambitious young soldier entered the United States Air Force where he began his 20-yr. tenure.

During this time, he not only acquired further education through numerous courses & training, but also received countless awards and recognition for his management, technical and solutions-oriented skills & abilities. A few of these include the Air Force Accommodation Medal, Outstanding Achievement Award and Indications & Warnings Award to name a few. A focused individual with the objective being key, he committed his time to developing and building the 544 Intel Analysis Squadron (Offutt ABF, NE), 1st Tactical Fighter Wing (Langley AFB, VA), 7450 Tactical Intelligence Squadron (Ramstein AB, Germany), Intelligence Operations (Scott AFB, IL), 6th Tactical Intelligence Group (Osan AB, Korea), Wing Intelligence Division (Langley AFB, VA), NCOIC Wing Intelligence Division (England AFB, LA) and NCOIC Shipping (Langley AFB, VA).

Upon retirement, his work was far from over. Not only did he become the father of three doting children who required much attention, he as well worked with troubled youth at the Renaissance Home then joined the Pinecrest family, where he worked untiringly doing what he loved most– creating an inviting and functional atmosphere as a Maintenance Supervisor for 17 years. You would often find him there on weekends and after hours to provide the best assistance possible because he was just that faithful.

The humble servant of God was a member of Nazarene Baptist Church for several years. He later rededicated his life to Christ at St. Matthew Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Joe Green. Within the spare time allotted, the meticulous gardener grew and maintained several crops of okra, tomatoes, cucumbers, greens, bell peppers and squash. This is where he found his solace in tilling the land and nourishing the earth which as well produced a harvest for his family and others to which he freely gave much. He additionally smoked the best barbecue that kept his family & friends running to the pit for more. But he doesn’t stop there! The handy carpenter took up restoring antique furniture and remodeling projects to bless others, especially when Hurricane Gustav hit and he single-handedly remodeled his home. Robert was a man of honor to be loved, admired and respected for all he contributed to the world.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Gardner & Girdie B. Cleveland; brothers: Charlie & Gardner Cleveland and sister, Shirley Thomas.

His memory will be forever cherished by his loving daughters: Waukiesha Jefferson, husband Jaenique; Kineta Lewis-Harrison, husband Derek; and Robin Cleveland, companion Joshua Smith; grandchildren: Joshua, Trinity, N’Shari, Marlon, Dillon and Sai; sisters & brothers: Betty Allen, husband Wilbur; Erma Peace, husband Melvin; Johnny Cleveland, wife Donna; and David Cleveland; nieces & nephews: Shelia Powell, husband Leon; Doris Allen, Fadray Howell, Charles Marks, Keyla Conway, Regin Conway, Monique Chambers, Davonia Cleveland, Shondreca Sanders, husband James, Jr.; Ashlynn Cleveland, Frederick Dewayne Cleveland and Demetrius Cleveland; Godmother Murlene Sibley; and a host of treasured cousins, extended family and friends.