Loretta Cameron

Loretta “Retta” Cameron made her heavenly transition surrounded by the love of her family, leaving behind a legacy as strong, bold, and unforgettable as she was. Born in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late James Henry and Beauty Lee Gordon Sr., she lived a full life defined by family, grit, humor, and a spirit that never backed down from anything or anyone.

Retta attended Mansfield Senior High School and proudly graduated with the Class of 1973. Long before high school, she dominated track at John Sherman Middle School, where she broke multiple records and became known for her speed, confidence, and competitive fire.

She grew up in the nurturing foundation of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. In adulthood, Retta became a dedicated member of Oasis of Love Church, continuing her walk of faith.

She spent 48 dedicated years at Med Central Hospital, working in various positions and becoming an unmistakable presence everyone recognized. Whether she was giving instructions, correcting someone, or doing her job with unmatched efficiency, people remembered Retta. Her work ethic, no-nonsense attitude, and humor left an impression that still lives in the halls she once walked.

Retta loved bingo, playing cards, dominoes, fishing, family cookouts, and a good party. She was stern, bossy, a little argumentative, and completely unapologetic about it—but she loved hard, protected fiercely, and always showed up when it mattered.

One of the greatest constants in her life was the unbreakable bond she shared with her siblings. She was inseparable from all of them: Leola, Iona, Ruth, Viola, Virginia and most recently James “Buggy.” With her passing, Retta became the last Gordon sibling to transition, bringing to a close a powerful and unforgettable generation whose love and influence shaped countless lives.

Retta married Dannie Cameron, and together they shared 31 years of partnership. Through their union, she embraced four stepchildren and built a blended family.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter, Kimberly Gordon; her grandchildren, Talaysia Gordon and Kenyon Toddie, who brought her pride, joy, and endless stories; her stepchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends who will forever remember her presence, her strength, and the humor only she could deliver.

Retta’s life was a blend of toughness and love, grit and heart, humor and honesty. She lived unapologetically and left this world the same way she lived in it—on her own terms. Her memory will forever inspire those who loved her, and her legacy will be carried on through every story, every laugh, and every moment she shaped