Ireatha Chenault

Journey of Life

Ireatha (Griffin) Chenault, daughter of the late Joseph and Idell Christopher, was born on August 15, 1935, in Greenwood, SC.  She transitioned to her heavenly home on September 30, 2024.

The Christopher’s moved to Baltimore, MD when she was an adolescent. She received her early education in the Baltimore City Public School System and graduated from Fredrick Douglas Senior High School.

Ireatha married the love of her life, Marion R. Chenault, Sr. in 1955, and from that union, they had five children. Her love for children led her to babysit a multitude of kids. She was passionate about the care and education of children. They were an extension of her family. She was fondly called “Aunt Rea”, by many. She didn’t just babysit, she loved on them made them feel special, and taught them life lessons. One of the most memorable things she taught was what she called the CDC's of life, CHOICES, DECISIONS, and CONSEQUENCES.

Her love for God was shown by her love for everyone. She lived a life that was pleasing to God. Even in the late stages of Alzheimer’s she never forgot God’s love and shared his message with the residents of Lorien, including her roommate Ms. Betty.

 Member of Ebenezer Baptist Church for over 70 years. She was a deaconess and member of the Senior Choir. She had a love for missions and silently contributed to several missions’ trips and ministries abroad.

She enjoyed traveling with her husband, feeding her birds, planting flowers, taking thousands of photos along the way and sharing the goodness of God with everyone she came in contact with. Ireatha made friends wherever she went. She was a true friend an affectionate wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. When you said, “I love you”, she always responded I love you more!

She was preceded in death by her parents Joseph Christopher, Idell Griffin Christopher, son Marion R. Chenault, Sr. She leaves to mourn her husband Marion R. Chenault, Sr., Children Christopher A. Chenault (Ellicott City, MD), Zerita L. Mitchell (Baltimore, MD), Derrick (Marlene) Mitchell (Baltimore, MD), Marsha Sales-Poole (Clarence) (Columbus, OH). Grandchildren Shekia (Maurice), Tiera (Larry), Manita (Bruce), Tymira, Darion, Marnae (Miguel), Marseania, Joshua, Deondre. 14 great-grands, Special “cousin-sisters” Mary “Bae Bae” White, Ella Mae “Mur” Turner, and Francis Taylor.

Graveside services will be 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. Viewing will be at 1:00 P.M., until the start of the service. Arrangements are handled by Robinson & Son Mortuary, Inc.

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