Mildred Byers Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Celebrating Her Spirit….Mildred Moody Washington Byers Mildred Moody Washington Byers was lovingly known as “MaMa” to her children and “Miss Millie,” to the multitudes who enjoyed her home cooking at “Millie’s Place” for two decades. She departed this life on Jan. 27, 2016, surrounded by the love of family. She was the fourth of 10 children born to Whitson and Minnie Hudson Moody, Dec. 16, 1928, in Butler, AL. Mildred accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at the age of 13 at the Butler A.M.E. Church. She was a young woman when she married Charlie Washington. Their union was blessed with two children, Bobby Washington and Betty Washington Hoskins. After the death of Mr. Washington, Mildred moved her young family to Chicago, Ill. and a few years later to Cincinnati. In the early 1950s, Mildred joined Beulah Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Hudson. She moved her membership to Zion Baptist Church in 1961 under the leadership of the late Rev. L.V. Booth. In 1958, she married Raymond Byers Jr. and their union created a blended household of five children; Bobby Steward Washington and Betty Washington; Mr. Byer’s son, Kenneth Woods and the Byers’ new arrivals, Angie and Raymond Byers III. Mildred and Raymond were devoted members of Zion Baptist Church and The Eastern Star for several years. She was employed as director of food service for Job Corps for 32 years. Upon retiring, Mildred and Raymond opened Byers Catering Service and “Millie’s Place” at Madison Road and Ward on Jan. 13, 1993. It was the beginning of a Cincinnati soul -food institution. Mildred formed treasured friendships at Zion and appreciated the guidance and wisdom shared by the older church women. She enjoyed attending worship services and working in various church activities and organizations. She served as Vice President of The Zion Baptist Church Credit union and was a vital member of the Pastor’s Aide Society. She was also a member of The Inspirational Chorus and Missionary Society as well as a host of other organizations. Throughout Mildred’s life she received many honors, including the key to Cincinnati from the mayor. She also gave her time and energy to many organizations such as Brownie and Girls Scout at leader, president of the Madisonville Business Council, Avondale Flower Association, a member of the Parent Teachers Association at South Avondale, Rockdale Elementary, Hughes and Woodward High School. Mildred was a devoted member of the Ohio Eastern Star, Sinai Court Heriones of Jericho, Lilly of the Valley, Court of Calathian, Daughter of Isis of Sinai Court # 35, Dove Assembly #34 and Girl’s Assembly #29. Miss Millie catered for years, serving her home-cooked dishes for wed-dings, receptions and private parties. Her Sunday buffets were legendary and her family-friendly restaurant was a gathering spot for people throughout Greater Cincinnati. She always greeted her diners with her warm smile and made it a point to come out of the kitchen during baby showers, birthday parties, book readings, church meetings, and tours. She also took the time to train students from Cincinnati Job Corps and went out of her way to hire the “unemployable.” She loved her family, her church and her pastors. Mildred was always ready to give a helping hand and words of encouragement to those in need. Although quiet by nature, people around her “listened” whenever she offered her words of wisdom. Throughout her life, Mildred dedicated her efforts in serving The Lord, whom she trusted, and she taught her children to do the same. Mildred was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond; a daughter, Betty Washington; her son, Raymond Byers Jr.; seven brothers, two sisters and her parents, Whitson and Minnie Moody. Her legacy of faith, devotion, and love will always be cherished by her two children, Bobby (Linda) Washington of Birmingham, AL. and Angie (Danny) Henson of Cincinnati; 14 grandchildren, Tombi, Monica, Robert, Charlie, Latressa, Danny Henson Jr., Lauren, Charae, Danielle, David, Randy, Kenneth, Chaz and Iesa; great-grandchildren, Pete, E.J., Kennedi, Joselyn, Josh, Allen, Aniyah, Ocie V., Robert Amentae, Zoey, Elijah, Josh, Darron, Brendan, Courtney, Brianna, Deja, Aubrey, Randy Jr., Riyah; great-great grandchildren, Nasir, Paris and Londen.

Mildred Byers

December 16, 1928 - January 27, 2016