Eloise Leff-Drayton Obituary (1921

After the death of her mother Rosa on August 27, 1967, Florence now 99 years of age became a mother to her younger sister Elouise. Only time would tell the tremendous impact that Elouise would have upon the people who found a place in her life. This began for her at the age of 12 when in 1937 she joined First Baptist Church, James Island, South Carolina, and was baptized under the pastorate of the late Reverend Weston, Class Leadership of the late Brother Jimmy Lafayette. Her education started at the Sol-Legare School on Sol- Legare Road, and the Society Corner School on Old Savannah Highway, both on James Island, SC. During her later teen years, she moved to New York City to live with her big sister Florence, where she completed her education and pursued a career as a domestic worker. As time moved on, she captured the heart of a young Navy sailor to whom she immediately developed deep affection. With a weekend pass and no time to make wedding plans, Elouise and Julius Drayton wer joined in Holy Matrimony at the Court House in the City of Charleston, South Carolina on May 27, 1947. With only $3.00 left after paying for the marriage license and a full tank of gas, they were off to California. Through the union of Julius and Elouise the were blessed with three children, but God in His infinite wisdom knew He had other works of motherhood for Elouise. Elouise and her husband jorneyed from coast to coast while serving in the US Navy. Many times she was unaware of his location on the Navy submarine. It was God who sustained her during those lonely months. Upon returning to Charleston, South Carolina in 1964, being a devoted Christian, Elouise reaffirmed her membership with her beloved First Baptist Church, under the pastorate of Reverend Grant, Class Leadership of Deacon John Richardson, Sr., and later Deacon William Johnson, where she served faithfully, joyfully giving of her time and talents. On this level, in 1967, she became a member of the Senior Choir. In 1968, she joined the Missionary and Progressive Boards, where she served faithfully as long as her health permitted. In 1965, she became a member of the Daughters of Elijah of Eastern Star Chapter #337, and I.L.U.J Seashore Farmers Lodge #767/ God knew that He had other maternal work for Elouise therefore, he blessed her with a nurturing spirit and a keen maternal instinct. As there would be others who would have a greater need for her loving, motherly and nurturing touch, which He used to bring glory to Himself by allowing her to rear numerous foster children: Michelle, David, Jamal, Christy and Nneka. Elouise and her husband Julius were very grateful for the blessings, which came into thier lives. As time moved on, more blessings continued to come to them when they became foster parents to yet another family of four: Frankie Mae, Nathan, John and Kevin. Other family members played an integral part in her life, especially her beloved relationship with her daughter/niece, Cassandra and grandniece, Michelle whom she referred to as "Sange" and "Shelly" . Her lifelong journey caused her to touch the lives of devoted niceces, nephews, cousins and surrogate children. All of who affectionately called her "Mother". Throughout her years she shared her ups and downs, ins and outs with her Savior whom she asked to help her "STAND". Throughout their sixty (60) years of marriage, her husband affectionately called her "Chick" and she called him "Baby and Jule". On Tuesday night Elouise was anxious to leave home to go to the Hospice Center where the staff was caring, loving and compassionate; and on two previous visits, nutured her back to health to return home. Before leaving she said, "This time is different, thank you all for everything you've done for me". Elouise eagerly waited with patience and much anticipation to meet her Savior, Jesus the Christ. After 85 years and 11 months, God answered her prayers. Her earthly journey ended, Thursday, January 25, 2007 at 8:25 am at the Hospice Center of Charleston, Daniel Island, South Carolina. She leaves to mourn a loving and devoted husband, Julius Drayton; one sister, Florence Leff Walker; on loving daughter, Cassandra Singleton Roper and grandniece, Michelle Barton; three brothers-in-law; Allen Mitchell, John Henry Mitchell and James Seabrook; four sisters-in-law, Essie Leff, Ethel Mitchell, Elise Mithchell and Florence Seabrook; two loving caregivers, Sandra Hezekia and Deliah Washington and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.