“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.”
~ 2 Timothy 4:7
After a long and fulfilling life, Lillian Cleckley Spells peacefully entered eternal rest on Monday, January 26, 2026 at the age of 96. At her side were her loving sons, Wayne and Angelo.
Lillian was born on July 13, 1929, in Orangeburg County, South Carolina to the late Tom and Cora Cleckley, Lillian grew up with strong family values and a deep sense of faith.
Lillian met and fell in love with the love of her life Andrew Spells, Jr. They were united in holy matrimony on December 29, 1953. Their union was blessed with two sons – Wayne and Angelo.
Lillian received her education in the public schools of Orangeburg County. At an early age, she dedicated her life to Christ and became a devoted member of Good Hope African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E) Church in Cope, SC, where she served faithfully for many years. In 1954, Lillian moved to Brooklyn, NY, joining her husband who had arrived the year before. She worked diligently at Chemical Bank (now Chase Bank) as an Inspector of Cleaning Services.
During the 1960’s, Lillian and her family became active members of Bridge Street AME Church in Brooklyn, continuing her lifelong commitment to faith and service.
Her life was defined by love, devotion, and generosity. Lillian touched countless lives as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her legacy of kindness and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andrew Spells, Jr.; her parents, Tom and Cora Cleckley; five sisters; and nine brothers.
To continue her legacy and to celebrate her life, Lillian leaves her two sons, Wayne (Nellie) Spells of New Jersey and Angelo (Ernestine) Spells of Brooklyn, NY; two grandchildren, Quincy (Arika) Spells and Corine “Nicki” Spells of Brooklyn, NY; one brother Col. US Army (retired) Gilbert Cleckley; sister-in-law Thea Cleckley of Orangeburg, SC, Betty Spells of Elmont, NY, Lela Cleckley of Easton, PA; and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Rest in peace, Lillian. Your love and light will remain with us always….

The service will proceed as follows: 

The viewing will be held on Friday, February 13,2026 at Glover's Funeral Home from 3:00pm until 7:00pm. 

The funeral will be held on Saturday, February 14,2026 at Good Hope AME Church 1040 Carver School Rd. Cope, SC 29038 beginning at 11:00am.