Tributes

Queen Evelyn Chaney was the tenth child born to the late Myrtle and Charlie Lewis. She made her arrival on this earth on October 8, 1931 in Eads, Tennessee. She accepted Christ at an early age at Gray’s Creek Baptist Church in Eads, Tennessee. The family relocated to Detroit, Michigan where Queen matriculated through the Detroit Public School System and graduated from Miller High School. In 1953, Queen was united in marriage to Theofus Chaney for 60 years, who preceded her in death in 2013. From this union two daughters and one son were born. Queen had a great love for children and education which led her to employment with the Detroit Public School System. Queen retired after 30 years of employment as a Paraprofessional at Woodward Elementary School. Queen and her loving husband relocated to Greenville, North Carolina in 2002, and since that time established a strong foundation of friends. She was a member of Sycamore Hill Missionary Baptist Church and enjoyed the fellowship of her church family. Queen enjoyed traveling and camping with her husband and a host of fellow campers. Queen also enjoyed working within her community. She held office in the local Pitt County AARP Chapter. One of Queen’s favorite past times in her later years was attending the Senior Fellowship Lunches hosted by local churches. Throughout Queen’s life she touched many people with her warm smile and wisdom. Queen made her transition on March 27, 2026, while a resident at Navion Assistant Living Center. She leaves to cherish her memory two daughters, Thyria Butler and Sharon Gardner; one son, Theofus, Jr. (Denise); four grandchildren, Adam Stewart, Zena Thompson, Briana Carter, Sydney Chaney and her beloved grandson, Alan Thompson who preceded her in death; great grandchildren, Anthony Thompson, Marea Carter, Avan Carter; Christian Thompson and Mickeyla Little who preceded her in death; her adopted children, Regina and Bobby Backus, Michael Williams, Pat and Russell Clark; her caregivers, Liz and Tiara White, and her very special and loving friend/caregiver, Toni Staton and a host of other family and friends.

Tributes

Mrs. Queen Chaney

October 8, 1931 - March 27, 2026