Lucille Edna Short

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Lucille E. Short
Lucille Edna Short, (sometimes endearingly known as Oma) a beacon of light and love,
and a pillar of parental power in the city of Cleveland, passed away at the age of 88 on
March 17, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on October
14, 1936, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Lucille's life was a testament to her unwavering
strength, her passion for education, and the enduring love she held for her family.
Although born in the warm embrace of the South, she moved to Cleveland, Ohio at the
age of 7 where she completed the majority of her schooling, alternating between
Cleveland and Cincinnati, Ohio. During this time, she and her friends enjoyed swimming
at the Woodland Hills pool during “People of Color” swimming in the 40’s and 50’s and
roller skating at the Playmore. Before long, her adventurous spirit led her to join the Air
Force at the tender age of 18. While stationed in Germany, she met her late husband,
John Henry. Her service to her country was marked by dedication and honor, eventually
leading to an honorable discharge. After her military service, she settled in St. Louis
with her young family before ultimately returning to Ohio. It was in Ohio that Lucille
found a new calling, one that would impact countless lives for the better.
Ms. Short’s advocacy began with her own children and grandchildren. To ensure they
received the best educational opportunities, she immersed herself in the school system.
This led her to join the District Advisory Council for Cleveland schools and parent-
teacher associations, where she supported school programs, voiced concerns, and
advocated for student needs.
In the 1990s, as Cleveland schools struggled with financial instability, mismanagement,
and declining student performance, Ms. Short witnessed the devastating effects of the
school to prison pipeline on Black children and was determined to make a difference.
She educated parents and mobilized them to fight for a better future. In 1998, she
created the Arts of Peace program, promoting peace, goodwill, and character
development in schools and neighborhoods. The program provided a platform for
students across Cleveland to showcase their talents in city-wide talent shows,
celebrating singing, dancing, instrumental music, artwork, and performance; its motto,
“Children Caught Doing Something Good” fostered pride and accomplishment in the youth.

The Arts of Peace was also known for its annual Peace Parade that
brought out the city and offered free health screenings, giveaways and workshops
culminating at Luke Easter Park.
In 2003, Ms. Short’s vision for a brighter future took form when she formalized her
commitment when she founded the non-profit organization Focus on Education. As
Director, she empowered parents and community members with resources to support
children's education and well-being. In addition to The Arts of Peace program, Focus on
Education also encompassed: Grandparents At It Again: informing grandparents about

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Lucille E. Short
agencies, respite care, and navigating school systems; Parent/Community District
Advisory Council; facilitating education seminars and conventions to disseminate
information to parents; and Peer Mediation in the Home: providing counseling aimed at
promoting peace within families. As director, Ms. Short poured her heart and soul into
these initiatives, becoming a tireless advocate for children within the Cleveland Public
School System. Through her unwavering commitment, Ms. Short became a pillar of the
community, recognized for her loving nature, wise counsel, and passionate advocacy.
Ms. Short’s legacy is carried on by her devoted family, including her son Eugene Short,
her son Douglas Littlejohn, and her granddaughters Tiffany Short, Sabrina Short,
Brandy Short, and Ebony (Nikki) Dancy whom she raised. She also shared a special
bond with her great-grandson, Jonathan Short. Her love and wisdom will continue to
guide her grandchildren Jeremiah, Jimmy, Johnell III, Eugene, Brittany, Douglas Jr.,
Tatiana, and Gino. Lucille was predeceased by her loving husband John Henry Short
Jr., her children John Short, Theresa Young, Patricia Hunter, her grandson Jonrico Short
and great grandson Gary Dancy Jr. Her siblings Mary Shaw, Doris Perry, and James
Carson have also passed before her, leaving her sister Crystal Carson to cherish
Lucille's memory.
Lucille's influence extended far beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of a
host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Each person she met felt the warmth of her love and the strength of her character. Her
presence was comfort, and her guidance a gift that will remain a cherished memory for
all who knew her.
Lucille's journey through life was marked by her deep commitment to the welfare of
others, especially the young minds she so fervently believed in. Her wisdom was a
guiding light, and her passion was a force that brought about meaningful change in her
community. She was a loving matriarch, not only to her own family but to all those she
embraced with her generous spirit.
As we bid farewell to Lucille Edna Short, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy.
She was the embodiment of love and compassion, and her legacy will continue to
inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been a part of her remarkable journey.
Lucille's journey may have come to an end, but the love she shared and the lives she
touched will forever resonate in the hearts of many.
In honoring her life, we recognize the impact of a woman who stood as a testament to
the power of dedication and love. Lucille Edna Short will be deeply missed, yet her spirit
will live on through the countless lives she has shaped and the community she has
profoundly influenced. She was a devoted mother, caregiver, mentor, and community
leader. May her memory be a blessing to all, and may she rest in peace, knowing that
her life was a masterpiece of compassion and service.
A memorial to celebrate this amazing woman's life will be held at The Cleveland
Botanical Gardens on April 27, 2025, from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm in the Woodland Room.
There will be free parking for the first 120 attendees. After attending the memorial
service, please feel free to enjoy the Botanical Gardens as a thank you from the family.

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