Cleophus Andrae Latimer Sr.

Cleophus Andrae Latimer, Sr., affectionately called “Cle,” entered this world on June 12, 1974, to the proud parents of the late, Charles and Rosella Latimer, Jr. He was the ninth of ten children born into that union.

Cle was raised in San Diego where he received his formal education and attended San Diego Mesa College. Having a mother who was President of the Sunshine Band, on the Deaconess Board, and singer at Jackson Memorial COGIC currently known as Fountain of Life COGIC, encouraged Cle to love God and church at an early age. Cle accepted the Lord during Vacation Bible School and was ordained a Deacon by the late Supt. Vernon Cooper of Mt. Olive COGIC.

Cle had several hobbies: sneakers, hats, cars, and music. These were his top four of many. He would keep his sneakers clean, boxed up, and even had some for so long that they disintegrated while he wore them. For every pair of shoes he possessed, he always had socks and hats to match. He was always a sharp dresser. He loved cars to no end. He would read about and look at classic cars in magazines, on the internet, and on television for hours on end. His dream car was the 1964 Chevy Impala which he had many models for display. Cle would easily spend half a day cleaning and detailing his prized 1993 Honda Accord and once he had finished, he would take it for a spin to show it off.

Cle was passionate about music and was a talented musician. He could play multiple instruments such as the tambourine, flute, keyboard, organ, and especially the drums. Being self-taught, he understood the value of hard work and would practice endlessly to perfect his craft. His musical talents led him to Holy Hands COGIC, where he faithfully served under the leadership of the late Supt. James F. Gaines, holding positions as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Minister of Music. Holy Hands is where Cle met and married his lovely wife of 18 years, Jamilla.

Cle and Jamilla were married on June 7, 2003, and were blessed with three beautiful children, Cleophus, Jr. (CJ), Taisia, and Trinitee, who he lovingly nicknamed, “Big Boy”, “Pretty Girl” and “Puddin”. His children took on his musical talents as well, with CJ playing the drums, Taisia playing the violin, and Trinitee playing the saxophone.

After leaving Holy Hands, Cle joined Faith, Hope, and Charity COGIC, under the leadership of Pastors John McKnight and Major Latimer, Sr. where he served as Deacon and co-president of the Sunshine Band, until his passing. Cle is preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Rosella Latimer, Jr., two sisters, Joyce Stevens and Bessette Latimer, and one niece, Miyoko D. Hulum.

Left to carry his legacy and memories are his wife Jamilla, his three children CJ, Taisia, and Trinitee. Four sisters, Yolonda, Sharon, Wanda Rosella, and Rushiette, three brothers, Charles, III, Rockie and Major, Sr., a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and cherished and loved longtime friends. As the loving father, husband, uncle, brother, and friend, Cleophus will be forever loved and truly missed.