Edna L. Crenshaw

Ms. Edna Lee Crenshaw was born on January 27, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, to George Exum and Lizzy Gill, where she also received her formal education. She lived a full and meaningful life dedicated to her family, faith, and community until her passing on August 23, 2025. Edna was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, two brothers, and two children. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faithfulness. For 35 years, Edna worked faithfully for the City of Cleveland. She was deeply committed to her church, a former Eastern Star, and an active servant in her community. She volunteered countless hours as a precinct committee member, poll worker during elections, and in voter registration efforts, always encouraging others to exercise their right to vote. She also found joy in her beloved social clubs, where she built lasting friendships over many years. Edna was also a passionate advocate and gifted writer. She wrote and published several articles in the “Call & Post” newspaper, using her voice to uplift her community and address important issues. As an influential figure in the Democratic Party, she worked tirelessly to inspire civic engagement, empower voters, and promote equity in her community. Her life was one of purpose, dedication, and love. She poured herself into her family, her work, and her community, leaving behind a powerful example of what it means to live with integrity, compassion, and strength. Those who knew her will remember her warm smile, her sharp wit, and her unwavering belief in lifting others up.

She is survived by her sister, Vivian Hammett, and her children: Consuella Exum, Edna Lorraine Barnes (John), and James Crenshaw Jr. She was a cherished grandmother to Marvin Crenshaw, Matthew Exum, Lerone Lovett, Keshia Gusman, Jamie Crenshaw, Shannon-Sharell Gilkey (Brian), Jason Crenshaw, Curtis Rucker Crenshaw, and Dominique Asque Crenshaw. Her love extended through generations as she was blessed with nine great-grandchildren and eleven great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves to mourn a host of family, nieces, nephews & Friends who will forever treasure her memory. Edna’s unwavering faith, dedication to service, advocacy, and love for her family will remain an inspiration to all who knew her. Though she accomplished much in her lifetime, her greatest gift was the love and encouragement she gave so freely to others. She will be deeply missed.

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