Harriet Verneda Crosland

Harriet Verneda Crosland, lovingly known as Mother Crosland and Grandma to everybody. Harriet took her final breath in this life Monday, June 2, 2025, surrounded by the family, she so deeply cherished and loved.

Born on May 20, 1964, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Bernice Williams and Selvester at the Women’s Hospital, Verneda was the oldest of three siblings.

She attended John Wayne High School, and later, Gordon Phillips Cosmetology School, where she discovered her talent and passion for hairstyling.

Harriet was united in Holy Matrimony to Curtis Tony Crosland, Sr. Together, they raised nine children, Apostle Curtis T. Crosland (Kiera), Wadiyah Lattimore (Bishop Douglas), Tasha Crosland, Risheen Crosland (Megan), Chadera Cryer (David), Kenny Crosland, Kareem Crosland, Malik Crosland, and Sharneiqua Crosland. Her home was filled with laughter, music, good food, and the warmth of her loving presence. From a young age, Harriets nurturing spirit, strength, and deep sense of responsibility shaped the lives of those around her.

A devoted member of New Life Perfecting Praise Church where she was made assistant pastor in 2023 and made Elect Lady of Grace Temple Fellowship of churches that same year under the leadership of Apostle Isham Cordery. She was lovingly known as Mother Crosland. Her service to the church was tireless and true, and she was a spiritual mother and mentor to many in the congregation. Her words were wise, her prayers powerful, and her faith unshakable.

Beyond her spiritual leadership, she was famous for her cooking, especially her homemade mac and cheese, which brought comfort and joy to every church function and family gathering. Feeding people—body and soul—was her gift and her ministry.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Bernice Williams; and her beloved sister, Carolyn Williams. Survived to cherish her memories, her brother, Shawn Williams; her nine children and was a proud and devoted grandmother to thirty-three grandchildren and great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren. Whether by blood or by love, many called her "Grandmom"—because she made everyone feel like family.

Harriet's life was one of selfless love, deep faith, strength, and generosity. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and devotion that will live on in every life she touched.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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