Obituaries
God has called one of His faithful servants in from the battlefield to take his rest. Lionel Lancel Travers, Jr., affectionately known as “Junior” and “Red,” completed his earthly journey on the morning of March 28, 2025.
He was born on October 15, 1942, in Ferriday, LA, to the late Gladys Woods Travers Johnson and Lionel L. Travers, Sr. He was educated in the public schools of Tensas Parish, where he graduated from Tensas Rosenwald High School in 1960.
Lionel accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age and was baptized at Myrtle Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. G. C. Cogg. He remained steadfast in his faith, striving to live a life according to God’s will and bringing glory and honor to Him. He believed deeply in the power of prayer and the importance of having a relationship with God.
Following his graduation from high school, Lionel matriculated at Grambling State University, majoring in Business Administration. He distinguished himself as an outstanding athlete on the school’s baseball team as a pitcher, thanks to the early mentoring and coaching of his older brother, Donald. After two years at Grambling State University, he was drafted by the Canadian Baseball League, where he played until being drafted into the United States Army. Lionel served his country honorably as a soldier in the United States Army, earning the rank of Sergeant during his service, which included a tour of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Following his military service, he received an honorable discharge and returned home to Waterproof, LA.
In 1968, Lionel traveled to Memphis to visit an old army buddy, Luther. During this visit, he was introduced to Luther’s cousin Venora—an encounter that would change their lives forever. The connection between Lionel and Venora was instant, and as they spent more time together their bond grew stronger. Before they could marry, Lionel approached Venora’s father to formally ask for her hand in marriage. At the time, he didn’t have a job, so her father helped secure him a position at Firestone Tire and Rubber Company as a tire builder. They married on November 27, 1969, in a small ceremony at Venora’s parents’ home. Their whirlwind romance blossomed into a lifelong partnership that resulted in two children: Kimberley (1970) and Brian (1972). Lionel took pride in being a provider for his family while remaining devoted husband and loving father.
Lionel proved to be a true renaissance man with diverse talents and interests. After the closing of Firestone Tire and Rubber Company in North Memphis, he returned to Waterproof, LA, where he embarked on various ventures: businessman; head of security on a casino boat in Natchez, MS; and later entering politics as an alderman for Waterproof. He served his community significantly for eight years in this role. In his later years, Lionel enjoyed bonding with family and friends while discussing sports, politics, and his faith in God. He especially cherished father-son trips shared with son, Brian.
In January 2025, Lionel returned to Memphis to spend time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter during his final days. On Friday morning, March 28, 2025, at 8:30 am, Lionel peacefully transitioned in his sleep at his son and daughter-in-law’s home surrounded by his wife Venora; daughter Kimberley; son Brian; and daughter-in-law Catrina. His journey reflects a life of love, dedication, hard work, determination, and versatility.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife of 55 years, Venora W. Travers; one daughter Kimberley N. Travers; one son Brian L. Travers (Catrina); one grandson Jonathan W. White; four granddaughters Jasmyne J. White, Jayla J. White, Brianna N. Travers, and Brielle N. Travers; one great-granddaughter Jovanni J. White; three brothers Donald A. Brown Sr., Richard J. Travers, Lance M. Travers; three sisters Jerrolyn Travers; Jacqueline Travers Jackson (Walter), Robyn Travers; one sister-in-law Gaye F. Wellington; three brothers-in-law, Ithmar Fennerson; Norqual Wellington, and Nathaniel Wellington, Jr.; along with a host of nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; great-great-nieces and nephews; other relatives; friends; and neighbors.
Lionel was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents; parents; in-laws; and two sisters.
“The righteous shall go into life eternal.”
Matthew 25:46
Serenity Funeral Home, Tel. (901)379-0861.
Previous Events
Visitation
12
Apr
1638 Sycamore View Road
Memphis, TN 38134
Service
12
Apr
1638 Sycamore View Road
Memphis, TN 38134
Cemetery Details
Location
4000 Forest Hill Irene Road
Memphis, TN 38125
