Michael Herndon

Michael Herndon (63), of Paterson, passed away after an illness on Saturday, September 10, 2016. He was born on February 6, 1953, in Englewood, NJ to the late Harry Molina and Evelyn Herndon. At about 6 years old, his family relocated to Paterson, NJ. There he attended School #8 and went on to graduate from John F. Kennedy High School. He enjoyed drawing, dancing, and cars with his childhood and lifelong friends George "Sport" Edwards, Herbert Hall and Victor Jackson.

Michael worked at S.B. Thomas, Inc. (Thomas' English Muffins) and Drake's Bakery. During his time at S.B. Thomas, Inc. he met a co-worker, Richard Ricks who introduced him to Jesus Christ. Richard and his wife, Nannie also introduced him to Lynda F. Davis. In August of 1994, Michael and Lynda were united in marriage.

In 1987, Michael joined Redeeming Love Christian Center where he served in the ministry as a Host, a PWOP (Persons Without Partners) and Living Seasoned committee member.

Michael was a very giving and friendly person and a great cook. Many family members and friends looked forward to eating his banana pudding (his granddaughter Heaven's favorite), sweet potato pie, corn pudding, sweet potato pound cake and banana and zucchini bread. Food was not his only specialty; he was also known as a sharp dresser. He sported suits with everything to match, down to the shoes. His ensembles were inspired by colors that he observed in nature.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Daryl Herndon; brother-in-law, Henry Forbes; aunt, Susie Herndon; uncle, Ernest Herndon; and his grandmother, Effie Mae Herndon.

His memories will forever be cherished in the lives of his wife, Lynda F. Herndon, of Paterson; son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Tennille Gillespie, of Passaic; two step-daughters, Shontell, of Irvington, and Jerri Gillespie, of Newark; two sisters, Carla Forbes, of Paterson, and Eileen Herndon, of Clark; granddaughter, Heaven Monet Gillespie, of Passaic; and a second cousin, Nina York, of Englewood; as well as a host of relatives and friends.

The viewing and funeral will be held at Funeraria Alvarez, 66 Passaic Avenue, Passaic NJ 07055. Viewing will be Thursday, September 15th, 2016 from 5-9pm and the Funeral on Friday, September 16, 2016 at 10:00am. He will be laid to rest in East Ridgelawn Cemetery, 255 Main Avenue, Clifton, NJ.