Lillie (Lewis) Tooke , 104, of Kansas City, MO, died peacefully at home on March 18, 2024. Lillie was born in Chestnut, Louisiana to Grover and Lettie Lewis on January 26, 1920. She was the eldest of three children born to that union. Her brother Jeremiah and sister Simmie preceded her in death.

Lillie was educated in Louisiana, and later moved to Kansas City to pursue employment opportunities and help create a better life for her family.

Lillie married Joe Tooke on April 28, 1936. Two children were born to this union. Lillie's husband and both children, Sallie Dixson and Joe Tooke, Jr, preceded her in death.

Lillie worked several jobs in Louisiana and Kansas City, including housekeeping in homes and in hotels. Lillie later enrolled in a cosmetology program at the Alien Jefferson Beauty Academy. She graduated in 1962. Lillie worked in a salon alongside Inez Wesley before opening Tooke Beauty Salon in the basement of her own home.

Lillie was an active member of Holy Temple Church of God in Christ and Friendship Baptist Church of Kansas City, MO while she was able. Some ministries she participated in over the years include Deaconess Ministry, Woman's Missionary Union, Sunday school, Baptist Training Union and Choir. Lillie organized the Daisy Stevenson Circle of the Friendship Baptist Church WMU. She also started the Mission Chorus, which would sing at various WMU programs.

Lillie was also active and well-known in the New Era District. She was Worship Leader for a number of years. She was also a member of the NED Choir. Lillie was also a student of Christian Education, attending classes at the District, State, and National Congress and Convention.

Lillie will be fondly remembered as a prayer warrior. She was called on often to pray for others. She attended prayer meetings regularly whenever she could. She served for many years as the Prayer Chairperson and Devotion leader at Friendship and in the New Era District. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved her.

Lillie was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Tooke, Sr.; son, Joe Tooke, Jr.; "adopted daughter" Lula Stevenson; daughter,  Sallie Dixson; grandchildren, Wendell Joe Reese and Robert M. Stevenson.

Lillie is survived by her grandchildren, Cynthia Dixson, Michael Dixson, and Karen (James) Perkins, R. Anthony Tooke,  Sheila Gray, Gregory (Monica) Stevenson; great-grandchildren, Casandra Stewart, Anthony J Tooke, Matthew Daniels, Collin M Dixson, Justin J Dixson, Audrey K Perkins, plus a host of great-great-grandchildren and other friends and relatives.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.