In Loving Memory of Lenore Beckles-Baly

February 23, 1941 – July 14, 2025

Lenore Beckles-Baly, a vibrant spirit and beloved soul, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, at the age of 84. Born at Harlem Hospital in New York City, Lenore grew up in the heart of Harlem and later moved to The Bronx as a teenager. She attended Evander Childs High School, where she graduated at the top of her class—an early sign of the brilliance, determination, and grace she carried throughout her life.

After high school, Lenore began working at Gimbels Department Store in Manhattan, a prestigious accomplishment at the time. She joined the accounting department as office personnel—trailblazing in a role where few African American women were seen. She dedicated many years to Gimbels and often spoke of her time there with pride and affection.

In 1966, Lenore married Robert Collier Jr., and a year later, welcomed her cherished daughter, Kim. Lenore embraced motherhood wholeheartedly, choosing to stay home and pour her love, energy, and wisdom into raising Kim, while also lovingly caring for her dear mother, Lucille.

Once Kim reached high school, Lenore returned to the workforce with characteristic grace and determination. She joined the New York City Health and Hospitals system as a communications operator, where she skillfully routed routine and emergency calls to key hospital personnel. Her voice became a reassuring presence in critical moments, and she served with deep commitment until her retirement at the age of 65.

Though her first marriage came to a close, Lenore's journey led her to love once again. On Valentine's Day in 1993, she married Marcelin (Mal) Baly, her devoted husband and companion. Together, they left New York and made their home in Miami, Florida in 2006, sharing 19 beautiful years filled with sunshine, laughter, and deep companionship.

Lenore was an avid reader who cherished her quiet time with a good book. Whether curled up in a cozy corner or relaxing outdoors, she found joy, knowledge, and comfort in the pages she turned- reading was her escape, her sanctuary, and her lifelong passion.

Lenore is survived by her husband Marcelin, her daughter Kim and son-in-law Howard, her sister Claire, brother-in-law David, niece Diane, nephew David, and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness, wisdom, and radiant presence.

Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped and the love she gave so generously. May Lenore forever rest in peace in the arms of the angels.