Naoma J. Staten

Naoma J. Staten, 79, passed away Monday, February 8, 2010 at a local hospital. She was born on July 16, 1930, in Topeka, Kansas. Naoma was the daughter of Robert and Louise (Bolton) Ross.

After graduation from Topeka High School, she was employed as a Psychiatric Aide in two hospitals. Subsequently, she worked as a Cottage Parent at Boys Industrial School. Naoma set a precedent by being the first female promoted to Cottage Director, in the history of Boys Industrial School.

Naoma was a member of Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, where she sang in the choir until some two years ago. She was a member of the Golden Timers Bowling league and enjoyed traveling.

She married David L. Staten on August 20, 1948. He preceded her in death on August 20, 2007. Survivors include two brothers, Frank L. Ross and Edward L. Ross, nieces, Ethera Fisher, Denise Coleman, Bernetta Wilson, Nadirah Habeebulah, nephews, Shawn Fisher, Shaquan Fisher, Tauheed Habeebulah, Faakir Habeebulah and other relatives and friends.

Mrs. Staten will lie in state at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday, February 15, 2010. Funeral Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the Church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.