Janiver McLittle Booker

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of our beloved Janiver McLittle Booker, who left this world on March 19, 2026, at the age of 81. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on June 7, 1944, Janiver was the cherished daughter of Verdia Lee Vaughn and Ralph Vaughn, and she grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings Virgil, Deanna, Clyde, Wendall, Roy, Denise, Ralph Vaughn, Cynthia Alexander, Andre Vaughn, and Sherry Carson. Janiver's life was a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering spirit of love. At the tender age of 17, she married Eccles McLittle, and together they welcomed Shelly and Alonzo McLittle into the world. Despite the challenges of young motherhood and the loss of her son Shelly and twin baby girls, Janiver's indomitable spirit shone through. Her journey continued with the birth of Ralph McLittle, whom she cherished dearly. In 2008, Janiver found love again with Carroll "Spud" Booker, a man whose passion for life matched her own. Together, they traveled, explored, and fished, embracing every moment until his passing. Education was a lifelong pursuit for Janiver. Despite initially leaving school due to her early marriage, her determination led her to graduate alongside her son Alonzo in 1983 from Ferndale High School. Her commitment to learning extended into her professional life, where she earned a certificate in Boiler Operation and Industrial Sewing, and worked as a Fisher Body Seamstress, a Home Care Service worker, and a cashier at Michigan National. Janiver's faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devout believer, she was a longstanding member of Second New Hope before finding a spiritual home at Indiana Church of God and Christ. Her voice, a gift from God, resonated with many as she sang in talent shows and with choirs like the United Ushers Mass Choir and The Meditation Singers. Her interests were as diverse as her talents. Janiver was an avid cook and baker, a skilled knitter and potter, and a natural coordinator. Her warmth, infectious laughter, and impeccable style left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was a woman of many hats, a "Phenomenally Phenomenal woman," as she often described herself—a true pearl. Janiver leaves behind a legacy of love through her children Alonzo and Ralph McLittle, her grandchildren Jasmine Brown, Raphael Cunningham, Arianna McLittle, Nala Cunningham, and Nija Cunningham, and her great-grandchildren Jahiem McLittle, Maurece Brown Jr., Mary Brown, Jacob Brown, and Charity McLittle. She is also survived by her goddaughter Charliss Little, and a host of nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who adored her. A celebration of Janiver's life will be held on April 4, 2026, at 12:30 PM at the Kemp Funeral Home, located at 24585 Evergreen Rd, Southfield, MI 48075. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff who cared for Janiver in her final days. Janiver McLittle Booker, with her heart of gold and selfless dedication to family and community, will be deeply missed but forever remembered. Her life was a melody of grace, love, and inspiration, and her legacy will sing on in the hearts of all who were touched by her presence.