Marva Laynette Camper

Obituary Marva L .Camper was born in Baltimore, Maryland on October 8, 1940. She was one of four children born to Everett and Pearl Bonner. At an early age, Marva accepted Christ and joined the Metropolitan AME Church. She actively participated in multiple youth activities which helped develop her musical and oratorical skills. Living by the values and life lessons her mother instilled in her, Marva dedicated her life to helping to create an environment that would benefit her community. After graduating from Frederick Douglass High School, Marva attended Morgan State College where she majored in Biology and minored in Geography. It was there that she met the “love of her life”, James K. Camper, who was an Officer in the United States Army. They were married in 1960 and had their daughter in 1961, followed by two sons. For many years as her husband was transferred during his service years, she and her children traveled all over the United States and Europe. She made a difference where ever they lived by joining Civil Rights movements and advocating equal opportunities in the organizations she supported. After her husband retired from the military, they moved from Maryland to Cleveland, Ohio and opened Mr. Donut, a successful donut shop. After many years, they sold the business and returned to Easton, Maryland in 1995. Marva continued her pursuit of being an activist for Civil Rights and Veterans. She enjoyed playing the slot machines and bingo as she was extremely lucky and a true gambler at heart. If you knew Marva, you knew she was a sharp shooter and didn’t bite her tongue, telling you what was on her mind. She didn’t tolerate any nonsense. Most of all, she valued hard work, honesty and dedication - values that she followed all her life. Preceding her in death are: her husband, James K Camper; parents, Everette and Pearl Bonner; two sisters, Rose Adeboje and Justine Bonner; grandson, Cameron McWilliams, and great nephew Barron McCray. Marva is survived by: her daughter, Yvonne (Benjamin) McWilliams of Cleveland, OH; sons, Kenny, Jr. and Michael Camper both of Easton, MD; sister, Carol Bright of Baltimore, MD; granddaughter, Chantel McConnell of Cleveland, OH; grandsons, Franklin and Raymond McWilliams both of Cleveland, OH; two great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Her passing has left a big void in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Find comfort in knowing she has reunited with the love of her life, James K. Camper, for eternity.

Marva Laynette Camper

October 8, 1940 - October 5, 2025