LaChai Monic Minner's Obituary
Sunday afternoon, June 25, 1972 family and friends gathered to celebrate a baby shower for Sheryl Hill
and U.S. Army Pvt. Kirk McClendon. But LaChai decided it wasn't a party without her presence. The party
ended as her Mom, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother rushed to the hospital to witness her arrival.
At 7:23 p.m., LaChai Monic Hill made her grand entrance into this world and proceeded to impress us
with her talents for the next fifty years.
During the first year of her life, LaChai lived with her Great Grandmother and Great Aunt's family during
the week and home with her Mother and Grandmother when school was out. Everyone showered her with
a lot of love and attention. LaChai was charismatic and loved being the center of attention. She was talented
and learned quickly.
In 1977, she was baptized at New Northside Baptist Church before moving to Decatur, Illinois to live with
her mother, stepfather (Charles Smith), and finally a little brother (Brian) who loved her dearly.
She played clarinet at Stephen Decatur High School, ran track, and was on Pom Pom Squad. After high
school, LaChai finished at the top of her Data Entry class, completed three years at Harris Stowe College
(business major), obtained a real estate license and finished first in her class for tax preparation. Chai
had a level of drive and commitment that energized her talents. The most rewarding job for her was as a
mother.
Her three children, Brianna, Jada and Nyles; were her biggest motivators. Her marriage to Paul Blanchard
ended in divorce, but her marriage to Myron Minner gave her the support and family she craved. Together
they worked tirelessly to enrich extended family connections. She shared her time and creative talents.
She loved working with school activities that supported the education of her children. She was the first
one called in family emergencies because of her attention to detail and ability as a caretaker. Her great
grandmother, grandmother and uncle directly benefitted from her loving care. She became the focal point
for the family and will be sorely missed.
Chai leaves to cherish her memory many loved ones: her mother ~ Sheryl Hill; her husband, Myron; her
children; Brianna (Malik), Jada, Nyles; her siblings ~ Brian, Kenya, Niya and Kahlilah; her sister-in-law ~
Kym (Aaron Sr.); along with a host of other special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of LaChai?
What’s a lesson you learned from LaChai?
Share a story where LaChai's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with LaChai you’ll never forget.
How did LaChai make you smile?
