Lydia Clarabell Motley, passed away comfortably at home on Saturday, June 8, 2019 following a lengthy illness. She was born on November 15, 1919 to Calvin and Alneda Tunison in Plainfield, New Jersey.
She graduated from Plainfield High School. She spent some of her early years traveling and working with her mother as a domestic worker. During her travels she met Harry Nelson Motley who was stationed at Earle Naval Base in Leonardo. They were married and raised ten children. She was an excellent seamstress. She made all her daughters clothes when they were young and also window treatments and furniture covers for her home.
Lydia was a warm, caring and loving mother. She was also a faithful member of the St. Paul Baptist Church in Atlantic Highlands under the pastorals of the late Rev. Vassie L. Peek and Rev. Henry P. Davis Jr. She was a warrior for the church. She was a member of the senior choir, missionaries and a dedicated member of the kitchen committee. She received an award for her dedication from the church for her commitment for God's work. She was known as the oldest Mother of the church.
She was predeceased by her husband, Harry Motley; brother Edward Tunison; sisters Jenny Butler and Dorothy Keyes; three sons Gerald Tunison, Harry Motley Jr. and Kevin J. Motley; two daughters Diane R. Motley and Margaret (Peggy) Clark; one grandson Aaron B. Johnson.
She is survived by five daughters Juanita Agee, JoAnn Motley, Vivian Etienne, Lynda Motley and Kathy L. Dunston; eleven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
There was not an individual who did not enjoy her company or did not love her smile. Lydia will be truly missed by all who knew her. God bless you Lydia on your journey home.
To The Motley Family,
Our Sincere Condolences, Miss Lydia was the most sweet and gracious woman in town, living on the same street, seeing here in town, always greeted you with that beautiful smile, and would ask about you and your family, and never a bad thing to say. We know she has a seat in Heaven now with her family and friends with God, Peace Be Still now, Rest Easy, and you will be surely missed by All!!!