Lillie Mae (Alford) Crum

Lillie Mae Crum, affectionately known as “Peaches”, was born on September 17, 1947, in Maxton, North Carolina, to Cecelia Mae (Ellison) and Samuel Alford. As a youngster, Lillie attended R.B. Dean Elementary School, formerly known as Robeson County Training School. In the 1960s, she and her beloved mother moved north to Brooklyn, New York, where they built a new life together in the Bushwick neighborhood. Lillie graduated from Clara Barton High School. A few years later, she welcomed her only child, Jemal, whom she cherished deeply.

Blessed with a creative spirit and skillful hands, Lillie’s profession was as a talented seamstress. Whether she was sewing curtains, making pillowcases and table runners, or doing alterations for clothes, her work reflected her care and artistry. She also earned a cosmetology license and worked as a hair stylist in a salon owned by her cousin.

Lillie expressed her love through food. A gifted cook, her homemade chicken and dumplings, fried chicken, and from-scratch cakes and pies were family favorites. She took joy in preparing meals, and her family was even more delighted in enjoying them.

Lillie later found love and companionship with her husband, Allen Crum. Together, they shared a bond filled with travel, laughter, and deep affection. When her mother required care, Lillie and Allen returned to North Carolina, settling in Laurinburg, where they remained together until Allen’s passing.

Faith and family were the cornerstones of Lillie’s life. She remained deeply connected to her son Jemal and his family, often traveling to Brooklyn to spend cherished time with them. They created lasting memories together, including many vacations. One of her most treasured experiences was a recent family trip to Dubai, that was highlighted with her riding a camel and posing for a desert photo shoot. Known for her straightforward nature, Lillie had a unique way of saying exactly what she meant—often with a spark that brought laughter to every visit. One of her great joys was the loving bickering she shared with Jemal—a hallmark of their special bond.

She opened her heart and her home to many, especially her nieces and nephews. Among them, her nephew Tywhya held a special place—more like a son than a nephew—he took great care of her over the years, and they too lovingly bickered with each other.

After moving from her longtime church home in Brooklyn, Lillie became a devoted member of Northview Harvest Ministries in North Carolina. She took joy in sitting in the back pew and proudly called herself part of the “Back Row Crew”.

In her final days, Lillie was surrounded by love and comfort. Her cousin Hattie Austin, niece Denise Hines, and dear friend Ruthann Ammons, offered support and companionship, and their presence was a true blessing during that time.

On June 9, 2025, Lillie was called home to be with the Lord. She was predeceased by her parents, Cecelia Mae and Samuel Alford, and her brothers James (“Love”) and Samuel Jr.

She is survived by her loving son Jemal (Karen); cherished bonus children Allen Johnson and Kathy Johnson (John); and grandchildren Dayvon, Kayla, Jaden, Jared, Richard, Simia, Brian, Justine, Chantel, and Ilyasah. She also leaves behind her aunts—Sadie Bridges (NC), Leola Bullard (NY), Ann Ellison (NY), and Patricia Ellison (NC)—along with many nieces,
nephews, cousins, and extended family members who mourn her passing and celebrate her life.

Lillie’s presence was a gift to all who knew her—steadfast, strong, loving, and unmistakably authentic. While our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing she is reunited with loved ones and now rests in her eternal peace. Her legacy will live on in every story shared, every lovingly prepared meal, and every moment of laughter she inspired.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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