Levetra M. Staten

Levetra M. (Turner) Staten, age 60, born on January 9, 1964, in Dayton, Ohio, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, September 13, 2024.

Levetra was affectionately known as “VeeDe” a name reserved for those who truly knew her, and it seemed that everyone had their own unique way of spelling it—depending on who you were talking to!

Levetra was a 1982 Jefferson Senior High School and Miami Valley Career Technical Center graduate. She went on to have a remarkable career spanning nearly 42 years as a licensed cosmetologist and an educator. For the past 26 years, she has touched the lives of many students and brought up the next generation of cosmetologists. She left her mark at John H. Patterson Career Center, Greene County Career Center, and Warren County Career Center – where she was awarded Teacher of the Year in 2021.

Levetra dedicated her life to her family and community. She was an enthusiast of the arts and fashion.  She was well known for her design aesthetic. Her creativity and passion were like no other. Her craft allowed her to uplift and inspire those who sat in her chair and in her classroom, touching the lives of many. Levetra's dedication to her students and clients made her a beloved figure in the community. She believed in always paying it forward.

Levetra was full of life. Every room that she entered became brighter with her presence. She loved to take in new experiences, travel, laugh, talk, and all things cosmetology.

She was the proud mother of two daughters, Stacey Flenory, married to Steven, and Kara Walker, married to James, who were the absolute joys of her life. She cherished every moment spent with them, nurturing their dreams and celebrating their achievements. Her unwavering support and encouragement were the foundation upon which they built their lives. Levetra instilled in Stacey and Kara the values of compassion, resilience, community service, and faith, which they carry on as a testament to her love.

As a devoted grandmother to five grandchildren—Carrigan, Kinley, Kaitlyn, Steven, and Harper—Levetra's heart overflowed with pride. She found immense joy in watching them grow and loved attending all their graduations, dance recitals, sports events, and other special moments. Each grandchild held a special place in her heart, with their bond being a source of endless happiness.

Levetra’s faith was a virtue. She was a devout Christian who grew up under the tutelage of People’s Community Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. She later became an active member of Omega Baptist Church in Dayton, where she attended and served in various capacities for nearly 30 years, as a choir member for many years, and, most recently, as a part of the Welcome Ministry. In addition to these congregations, she also held a special place in her heart for her extended church family at The House of God, whom she cared about dearly. Her love for music, especially gospel and the timeless melodies of Stevie Wonder, resonated deeply in her soul. Levetra was known for her beautiful singing voice, which she shared generously with those around her. She sang in various choirs throughout her life, including Keith Leak and DWC.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lillard and Mary Turner, and her brother, Froebel Turner. Levetra is survived by her daughters, Stacey (Steven) Flenory and Kara (James) Walker; her grandchildren, Carrigan, Kinley, Kaitlyn, Steven, and Harper; her sister, Monica Turner; nephews, D’Anthony and Deon (Makayla) Turner; special cousin, Rev. Marva O. Hughes, affectionately known as “Big Cousin”. She also leaves behind her special friend, James “Jimmy” Myers, whom she also affectionally referred to as “my neighbor”; a special daughter, Jasmine Neilson; “The Shop & her beloved clientele,” “Macy’s Crew,” “Career Tech family,” beloved Uncle Calvin Penman, host of cousins, and many newer and seasoned relationships.

Funeral service 11 am Friday, September 27, 2024 at Omega Baptist Church, 1821 Emerson Ave., Dayton, OH. Visitation 9 am- 11 am. Family will receive friends 10 am-11 am. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.

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