Biography: Verlene Adelaide Lane was born December 1st, 1937 in Camak, Georgia to Lillian Barnes and Jethro Cody, Sr. Both parents preceded her in death. She departed this life quietly on the evening of September 9th, 2022. She obtained her early education in Camak and Warrenton, Georgia. At the age of 13 she accepted Christ while attending Lithonia Baptist Church in Camak, Georgia. In 1953 Verlene moved to New York with her mother and attended Julia Richman High School. After graduation in 1956 she studied nursing at Roosevelt Hospital. It was at Roosevelt that she met the love of her life, Raymond Lane. After 40 years of marriage, he preceded her in death.
In April of 1969 Verlene joined the First Union Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Ernest Powell. She served on the Usher Board, the Matrons and the Mission ministries. Verlene has also served as Chairperson of the Women's Day Committee and the Willing Workers Ministry. For 26 years she was employed by Verizon. She retired as Manager of Employee Benefits in
1996.
Verlene's lasting legacy includes two daughters; Cheryl Lane-Lewis (Son in love, Jimmy Lewis), Yolanda Williams (Mark Lewis) and one bonus son, Derrick Lane. Also included in her legacy are two granddaughters; "Tiara Lane" Williams and Latoria Lane. Two grandsons; Christopher M. Williams and Derrick Lane, Jr. (wife, Rachel Lane). One grand cat "Smokey Jazz': Great grand-daughters; Ciniya Joi Williams (deceased at birth), Savannah Joi Williams and Zora Brady-Price Williams, Great grandson London Williams.
Siblings left to mourn her loss include her sisters; Michelle Barnes, Regina Barnes, Rita Barnes, Shirley Cody Carter, Margie Ree Cody McWhorter, Mary Cody-House (husband, Larry House), Anita Cody Williams, Annette Cody Foster. Verlene's Brothers; Willie Cody (wife, Rosalind Cody), Leon Cody, Thomas Cody and Cecil Cody (wife, Onethia Cody) and Jethro Cody, Jr. Surviving Sisters in law; Alfreda Williams and Betty Scott. Dear friends, Marian Adams and Shirley and Mel Boone. Also, a long, long line of nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins.
Aunt Verlene was an elegant, dignified Black woman who loved her family. Her children and grandchildren made her so proud of all their accomplishments. She often spoke of their achievements. She always showed warmth, care, and concern whenever I visited. We had long conversations during our visits, and she always prepared a special meal. She always had a smile on her beautiful face. She will be missed; but I know that when I think of her, I will hear her voice and soothing words. The time passed too quickly, and she moved on much too soon. But God knows what is best. May the God of our faiths continue to bless and keep us as we remember our dear Verlene A. Lane.
In peace and love,
Albertina Lane
