Ms. Lois Middleton Curry, 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 9:35 a.m. at Evergreen Commons Nursing Center in East Greenbush, New York, following an extended illness. Earlier this year, Lois relocated to New York to be lovingly cared for by her niece, Wendy Barnett. As her health declined, she became a resident of Evergreen Commons, where she received compassionate care during her final days.

Born on May 2, 1941, in Gloster, Mississippi, Lois was the cherished daughter of the late Moyese and Lubertha (Vannormon) Williams. She lived a life defined by faith, compassion, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

She leaves behind her loving children, James (Trishana) Middleton of Elkhart, Jason Middleton of Elkhart, and Deidra J. Middleton of South Bend. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, Dana Middleton of Elkhart, Azhia Minies and Summer Middleton, both of South Bend, Benjamin "BJ" Wallace of Michigan, and Tristen Middleton of Elkhart; three treasured great-grandchildren; her lifelong best friend, Annette Johnson of Mishawaka; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, neighbors, and countless people whose lives were enriched by knowing her.

In accordance with Lois' wishes, a direct burial will take place at Rice Cemetery in Elkhart at a private graveside gathering there. Billings Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Elkhart, together with Meyer's Funeral Home of Delmar, New York, have been entrusted with assisting the family with her arrangements.

To know Lois was to know someone who never hesitated to stand up for what she believed was right. She was a passionate advocate for children and devoted much of her life to improving the lives of young people and families throughout her community. For many years, she worked in childcare and daycare, where she nurtured and encouraged countless children with patience, kindness, and genuine love. Yet her greatest legacy may well be the countless hours she freely gave as a volunteer and community activist.

Lois believed that serving others was not simply something you did—it was a way of life. Throughout the years, she volunteered with children's centers, food pantries, missions, community outreach programs, and organizations dedicated to helping those facing difficult circumstances. Whether preparing meals, organizing donations, mentoring families, advocating for those without a voice, or simply offering encouragement to someone in need, Lois could always be counted on to show up. She never sought recognition for her efforts; her reward came from seeing lives changed and communities strengthened.

A dedicated volunteer with the NAACP for many years, Lois was deeply involved in community organizing and social advocacy. She believed every person deserved dignity, opportunity, and respect, and she worked tirelessly to make her community a more compassionate and equitable place. She was also instrumental in helping organize Jacob's Ladder of Elkhart, an organization that remained especially close to her heart. Through her leadership, generosity, and determination, she helped create opportunities for hope and support that continue to benefit others today.

Those who knew Lois understood that she possessed a personality impossible to ignore. She was feisty, outspoken, opinionated, and wonderfully authentic. She spoke her mind without apology, stood firmly by her convictions, and never backed away from defending those she loved or the causes she believed in. If someone needed an advocate, Lois was often the first to step forward and the last to give up. Her courage, resilience, and unmistakable voice made her a force for good throughout her community.

Above all else, Lois was a woman of steadfast faith. A devoted Christian, her lifelong relationship with the Lord began at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church in Elkhart, where she first developed the faith that would guide every aspect of her life. Although she worshipped with several congregations over the years, her love for God remained the foundation upon which she built her life of service, generosity, and compassion.

Her grandchildren lovingly remember their grandmother as someone who was always present with wisdom, encouragement, unconditional love, and unwavering faith. Whether offering advice, sharing a laugh, or praying through life's challenges, Grandma Lois was a constant source of strength and reassurance. Her influence will continue to live on through each of them.

Lois Middleton Curry truly marched to the beat of her own drum. She lived boldly, loved deeply, served selflessly, and leaves behind a remarkable legacy of faith, service, advocacy, and compassion. Her impact extends far beyond her family, reaching into the lives of countless friends, neighbors, and community members whose paths she crossed over the years. She will be profoundly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored by all who were blessed to know her.