Evadna Renee Clemons

Evadna Renee Clemons, affectionately known as Renee, was born in Dayton, Ohio. Renee passed away at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula in Monterey, California. She was preceded in death by her mother, Willie Naomi Dunn.

Renee graduated from Locke High School in Los Angeles, CA, in 1973. She proudly served in the United States Army for 12 years. She often shared, “I love to help others, travel, cook, and spend time with my family. I love watching football, listening to old school music, jazz, and gospel.”

Renee’s passion was helping others. Her commitment to serving the homeless began years ago, when she and several friends joined the Board of Shelter Outreach Plus. That organization—now known as Community Homeless Solutions—was established in 1978 to provide emergency shelter and support for women and children escaping domestic violence.

She devoted countless hours volunteering with organizations that supported homeless women and families. She worked with Gathering for Women – Monterey, a charity in Carmel, CA, that helped sponsor the Women’s Ball. In 2024, she was honored at the Women’s Ball for her generosity, creativity, and support of Casa de Noche Buena, a shelter for homeless women and families.

The Women’s Ball—founded in 2007 by Renee Clemons and Deborah Smith—was created as a joyful women’s night out that also raised funds for women and families in need. The event continues to benefit Casa de Noche Buena, a partnership between Gathering for Women – Monterey and Community Human Services.

Renee was honored as an Outstanding Woman of Monterey County by the Monterey County Commission on the Status of Women, where she also served with distinction as a Board Member.

Renee was a member of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Seaside, California, serving under the leadership of Rev. H. H. Lusk, Sr, then later under his son, Rev. Harold H. Lusk, Sr. She served in many capacities, including organizing outreach events for the homeless, serving on the Pastor and First Lady Aide Committee, and singing with the Women’s Chorus.

Several years ago, Renee met and married James Clemons. They later divorced, having decided to go their separate ways.

Renee leaves to cherish her memory:

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Brother: Robert Graham (Deborah), Trussville, AL

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Uncles: Clifford Dunn (Compton, CA), Louie Dunn (Los Angeles, CA)

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Nephews: LeAndrae Graham (Lana), Homewood, AL; Robert Dunn (Sheneka), Newport News, VA; Christopher Dunn (Gladys), Hoboken, NJ

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Niece: Tamara Graham, Trussville, AL

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Great-nieces: Aaliyah Graham (Homewood, AL); Laila Dunn (Newport News, VA); Isabella Dunn (Hoboken, NJ)

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Great-nephew: Jaylan Cooke Dunn (Newport News, VA)

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Devoted friends: Merrilyn Mancini and her daughters Linda Null, Robin Mancini, and Christine Wood

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A host of cousins and friends

For every life she touched and every soul she lifted, Evadna Renee Clemons will always be remembered and forever held in our hearts.

Acknowledgements

The Graham family expresses their gratitude and sincere appreciation for the many expressions of love, kindness, and sympathy shown at the passing of their loved one, Evadna Renee Clemons..