Naomi (Rufus) Green

Naomi “Mamma” Green, a faithful women of God, transitioned to be with the Lord peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, March 3, 2020. She was born on October 10, 1939 in Sumter, South Carolina to the late Clarence and Maggie Rufus. She was preceded in death by both parents and three siblings: Sheila, Clarence, Jr, and Clayton.

A few years after her birth, the family relocated to Baltimore, Maryland and they were one of the first families to move into the Gilmore Projects. Naomi grew up on the “Westside” and was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System. She developed a love for singing and regularly sang at the Q Social Club and the Royal Theater on the historic Pennsylvania Avenue during the 60’s. Her beautiful soprano voice was recognized around town culminating with her receiving the 1st place award at the 1971 WJZ talent showcase.

Naomi gave her life to Christ in the early 1970’s at St. Paul Baptist Community Church where she met and married the love of her life, Reverend Willie Green, Sr. in March of 1976. Naomi was a homemaker and a virtuous women of integrity. She raised seven wonderful children and opened her home and heart to dozens more. Taking care of children and singing the songs of Zion were her ministries. She truly was everyone's “Mamma”. In addition, Mamma loved watching westerns, cooking and being surrounded by her family.

Naomi faithfully followed her husband and worked in the vineyard of multiple churches in which he pastored including Ever-Ready Baptist Church, Old Landmark Baptist Church, Cannon Missionary Baptist Church and Open Door Christian Church.

Mamma leaves to mourn and cherish her beautiful memories: Husband: Reverend Willie Green, Sr.; daughters: Patricia Lewis (Derrick), Kandel Berry (Kevin), Judy Jones (Johnny), Terry Laughinghouse (David), Sandy Byrd; sons: William Smith (Diane) and Will Green, Jr. (Ashley); sisters: Hermina Rufus and Marsha Rosebrough and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Condolences may be emailed to bruceandstiff@gmail.com

Asleep

I’ve closed my eyes and fallen asleep,

So there’s no reason for you to weep;

This is a debt we all must pay,

You will see me again someday.

I’ve endured pain and sometimes sorrow,

Now I don’t have to worry about tomorrow.

But life for you must go on,

You must not worry because I’m gone.

You stood beside me all the way,

When I was down, you knew what to say ...

You always told me, “get some rest,”

Let me sleep now, I’ve done my best.

So please let me rest in peace,

The tears you’re shedding soon will cease.

You’ll soon realize this was meant to be, I

thank God because He came for me.

-Emily Dickinson

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