Delois Jean Pippins (Lois) was born in Louisiana on February 18, 1953. Her parents Addie Marie and Norris Pippins were proud and loving parents. As their family began to grow, they moved to Los Angles California were Delois started her early education in the Los Angeles Unified School System. The family decided to make another move to Oxnard California in 1967 in search of a quieter lifestyle. Delois attended school in Oxnard California and graduated from Port Hueneme High School in 1972. After high school Delois attended Ventura College where she considered training to become an airline stewardess. Eventually she chose a career in the Insurance Industry and worked for State Farm Insurance Company for over thirty-two years.

On February 9, 1982, Delois welcomed her only child Amber Chanel Thomas. When she was born Amber held a special spot in the family because she was an only child and only grandchild. Delois devoted herself with the care for Amber while finding time to be involved in numerous religious and civic organizations. She joined Evangelistic Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Wesley L. Nathaniel many years ago and served faithfully until her illness made it difficult for her to attend services. While at Evangelistic she served in the Women's Missionary Choir, Hospitality Ministry, The Sisterhood Ministry and Vacation Bible School. Deloris' Civic involvement included the Marin Luther King Jr. Committee of Ventura County, Black American Political Association of California (BAPAC) and the Onyx Club of Ventura County.

Like her mother, Delois was a gifted and enthusiastic cook. She was known for her Peach Cobbler which was often requested by friends and family. She loved all things related to hospitality and often took the lead in planning family events with menus that included way too much food. She was generous with family & friends, always willing to offer help with temporary housing, financial support and advice. She encouraged us and wanted her family members to excel. Our sister was the undisputed leader of our tribe and loved every minute of it. Even after her illness progressed and she became unable to travel and fully participate in many family activities, she never stopped trying to be involved on some level. We have all been recipients of so many of her talents.

Delois was proceeded in death by her parents Addie Marie and Norris Pippins. Deloris leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter Amber Channel Thomas, Five sisters: Ethel R. Pippins, Peggy Pippins Miller, Jackie Pippins Weisman, Denise Pippins Jackson, and Shawn M. Pippins. Five brothers; Lonnie Pippins, Kent Pippins, Elston D. Pippins, Morris Pippins and Demetrius Pippins. She also lovingly helped raise three other very special young people, which are Shalamar Taylor, Jamar Johnson and Jermaine Johnson. She considered their children her grandchildren. We have been blessed to have them as a permanent part of our family. Delois also leaves uncles, aunts, and cousins and a host of friends. She would want all of us to stick together, love each other, protect her legacy and present a united front in difficult times. This is exactly what we plan to do.

Our sister loved the words and legacy of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, he spoke the following words when asked about his possible legacy.

"The ultimate measure of a man (woman) is not where they stand in the moments of convenience, comfort, (or health) but by where they stand at times of challenge and controversy. Delois stood in the gap for so many of us throughout her life and by that measure she was a giant. We love you dear sister, rest well until we meet again.

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