Rebecca Louise Todd departed this earthly realm on May 16, 2026.

Raymond and Blanche celebrated the birth of Rebecca Louise and Roy Thomas on July 21, 1932, in Paris, Tennessee. Sadly, her twin brother, Roy, succumbed 6 months after his birth.

Rebecca attended and graduated from Central High School in Paris, Tennessee. After graduation Rebecca and her sister, Norma Jean, moved to Akron, Ohio. First order of business upon arrival to Akron, Ohio was finding a church home. Rebecca and her sister were led to The Greater Bethel Baptist Church where they became dedicated and lifelong members.

Rebecca ministered with the choir faithfully for years, becoming one of their top soloists where she was frequently featured on the Sunday night broadcast. People traveled near and far to hear her sing with the choir. Rebecca also directed the choir under the Pastoral leadership of Gordon Humphrey, Sr. She also taught and directed the choir at New Trinity Baptist Church.

A beloved mother, songstress, and woman of faith Rebecca ministered with Akron City Family, Akron Chapter of The Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA), and Leslie Parker Barne’s Worshipping Women to name a few.

Rebecca was employed in the Dietary Department of Akron General Hospital for over 30 years.

Fondly known as “Mother” to so many, Rebecca loved to cook and bake – a full course meal was always available every Sunday for anyone who stopped by. No one ever left her home hungry.

Preceded in death by parents, sibling, niece, Adrienne and nephew, Richard Young, Jr.; Rebecca leaves to celebrate her transition her devoted daughter, Paula DePree Smith; sister, Norma Jean Young; nephew, Phillip (Cynthia) Young; great nephews, Richard Young III of Charlotte, North Carolina and Aubrey (Cadey) Young of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and special daughter, Lula Gordon.

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Sommerville Funeral Services from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Visitation will also be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Mount Calvary Baptist Church 442 Bell St., Akron, Ohio 44307, from 11:00 a.m. until Noon. Funeral service will immediately follow. Interment will be at Rose Hill Burial Park.

Condolences may be sent to 916 Magennis Ave., Akron, Ohio 44307