Lula Mae

Gantt

Lula Mae Jefferson Gantt, born on August 19, 1933, in Dale, South Carolina, to Samuel and Carrie Jefferson, lived a long, purposeful, and faith-filled life. She transitioned peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Lula Mae spent her early years in South Carolina and graduated from Robert Smalls High School in Beaufort. Guided by a strong belief in education and personal growth, she continued her studies at Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey.

For 72 years, Lula Mae made her home in Englewood, New Jersey, where she built a life rooted in family, faith, and service. She was united in marriage to Walker Gantt Jr., and together they raised two sons, Edgar Gantt Sr. and Samuel Gantt.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Lula Mae spent 20 years in housekeeping before serving another 20 years as a home aide. She retired at the age of 75, having touched countless lives with her compassion, steadiness, and work ethic.

Her spiritual foundation was central to her life. Lula Mae was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Englewood for 68 years. She served faithfully in the Willing Workers Club—twice as president—and participated in Altor Gills and the Chapel of the Four Children Scholarship program. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church. She was a proud member of the Eastern Star, Queen of Sheba Chapter No. 4, where she served as Worthy Matron twice. She was also an active member of the Englewood Hospital Diabetes Association.

Lula Mae was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Carrie Jefferson; her brother, Oscar Jefferson; her husband, Walker Gantt Jr.; and her son, Edgar Gantt Sr.
She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Samuel (Angie) Gantt of Englewood, New Jersey; her sister, Mary Melvin of Dale, South Carolina; her daughter-in-law, Jeanine Gantt of Clarksville, Tennessee; six grandchildren—Leon (Kerry) Gantt of Southampton, New Jersey; Edgar (Nikki) Gantt Jr. of Alabaster, Alabama; Elijah (April) Gantt of Crestview, Florida; Walker (Vanessa) Gantt of Clarksville, Tennessee; Shawn (Shanique) Gantt of Union, New Jersey; and Aaron Gantt of Bloomfield, New Jersey; ten great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who loved her dearly.

Lula Mae will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, her faith, and the quiet but powerful way she cared for others. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her legacy will continue through all who were touched by her presence.