Rachel Evelyn Marie Abbott

Rachel’s Journey Rachel Evelyn Marie Palmer Abbott peacefully departed this life on June 16, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the love of her children and family. Born on April 17, 1943, to the late Dennard Palmer and Eva Robinson Palmer, Rachel was one of sixteen children and became the cherished matriarch, historian, and heart of her family. Rachel’s life was a beautiful testimony of faith, love, service and devotion. She was a woman whose presence brought comfort, whose wisdom preserved family history, and whose unwavering faith inspired generations. A graduate of William C. Jason High School, Rachel began her working years at Wright’s Tomato Factory before pursuing her passion for sewing. She dedicated more than a decade of service to the Manhattan Sewing Factory, where her skill, diligence, and creativity reflected the care she brought to every area of her life. On February 16, 1962, Rachel married the love of her life, Calvin Douglas Abbott. Together they built a legacy rooted in faith, family and ministry. Their union was blessed with biological, foster, and adopted children, each embraced with the same unconditional love. Rachel’s heart knew no boundaries; she loved without distinction, making everyone who entered her life feel valued, welcomed., and cherished. Rachel and Calvin’s shared commitment to God led them into decades of faithful ministry. After worshiping together at Clarence Street Church of God, they continued their service at East New Market Church of God in October 1979. For over fifty years, they faithfully ministered to their community, sharing the Gospel and demonstrating Christ’s love through both word and action. Following Calvin’s transition to glory on March 8, 2023, Rachel remained steadfast in her calling. She remained faithful in her willingness to sustain the work they had begun until October 19, 2025, when Pastor Cassandra Abbott established Lighthouse Church Ministries. Even as her health declined, she remained committed to preaching , encouraging others, and sharing the hope found in Christ, and served as church Mother and women’s Ministry Department Leader. Racheal was especially known for her deep love of worship. Her distinctive voice touched countless lives and created an atmosphere where hearts were drawn closer to God. Wherever she ministered, her beloved anthem, "Daystar,” was often requested and became a signature expression of her faith and devotion. Beyond the pulpit, Rachel embodied the spirit of servant leadership. She lived out the words of Matthew 25:35-40 through outreach, hospitality, and generosity. Whether preparing meals, organizing fundraisers, supporting families in need, or simply offering a listening ear, she consistently found ways to share God’s love. She never met a stranger, and those who crossed her path often left feeling like family. Rachel’s home was a place of warmth, laughter and belonging. Through her involvement with the Fresh Air Kids program and countless acts of kindness, she showed many young people the true meaning of family, acceptance, and unconditional love. She planted seeds of love everywhere she went, and those seeds continue to flourish in the lives she touched. Rachel was preceded in death by: her husband of sixty-two (62) years, Bishop Calvin Abbott; her siblings, Catherine and Golden Camper, Essie and James Greene, Joseph and Virginia Palmer, Hattie and Henry West, Bernice and Alfred Cannon, Sr., Samuel and Marie Palmer, Henry and Inez Palmer, Marguerite and Colen White, Peggy Palmer-Murray, Mabel Palmer, Guy Palmer, Milton Palmer, Frank Robinson, Shirley Palmer, and Frank Ricketts; a sister-niece, Bonnie Palmer and two godsons, Michael Jenkins and Bruce Coverdale, Jr. (BJ). Rachel leaves to celebrate her life and carry forward her legacy: a sister-niece, Gladys Briggs; her children, Fredrick Abbott (Mona), Calvinessa Abbott, Cassandra Abbott, Angela Abbott (Anthony), Nekisha (Sherman) Roberts, Tremaine Abbott, Lorraine Smith (Wade), Francetta Abbott, Rosavella Massey (Micheal), Taiwan Cannon, Antone Phillips, Mariah Phillips and Sheante Abbott; 41 beloved grandchildren; 37 great grand Children 6 godchildren; a special son, Bishop Alfred Cannon, Jr. (Lady Patience); a special neice, Elder Patricia White and spiritual children, Willis and Ursula Dickerson and Guan Davis; a loyal caregiver, Arlene Green, along with a host of beloved adopted sons and daughters, nieces, nephews, extended family members, a loving and supportive church family, The Lighthouse Church Ministries and many dear friends. While her earthly journey has ended, Rachel’s legacy of faith, worship, compassion, and unconditional love lives on. She faithfully served he Lord, loved her family deeply, and impacted countless lives through her ministry and example. “Well done, good and faithful servant...Enter into the joy of your Lord.”-Matthew 25:23 Rachel will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated. Her light continues to shine in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Lovingly Submitted ~ The Family

Rachel Evelyn Marie Abbott

April 17, 1943 - June 16, 2026