Ida Mae Rather

Ida Mae Young-Rather, beloved mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend, peacefully departed this life at the age of 96 surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Ida Mae, affectionately known as "Momma" by her children and grandchildren was born on May 30, 1928, in Baltimore, Maryland, Ida Mae was the cherished daughter of the late Will E. Jones and Sarah Williams.

Ida Mae accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and personal Savior at an early age, and her life was a testament to her unwavering faith. A devout Christian, she loved the Lord with all her heart. She was very active in her church throughout her life, always serving and nurturing her faith community with warmth and kindness. Her belief in God was the foundation of her life, and her love for the Lord was evident in everything she did. On Good Friday, April 18, 2025, a day of reflection and grace, Ida Mae peacefully went home to be with the Lord. How fitting for a woman whose life was filled with love, strength, and unwavering faith.

She was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System and attended Dunbar High School. A woman of strength and dedication, she worked as a supervisor for Holiday Inn, where she was known for her exceptional leadership and work ethic. Ida Mae also contributed to the success of the 3 W’s Tavern owned by her brother and sister-in-law, Norman T. Williams and Ora Retta Williams—a place that brought the community and family together.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ida Mae was a woman of many passions. She found joy in the simple pleasures- fishing, cooking delicious meals for her loved ones, sharing stories, and visiting the casino. Her zest for life and infectious sense of humor brightened every room she entered. Above all, Ida Mae’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother whose love knew no bounds.

Ida Mae was the last survivor of her 5 siblings, a testament to her resilience and strength. She was preceded in death by her loving parents and two of her children, Delores Yvonne Young and Percell Young. Ida Mae was first united in marriage to Sandy Young, who preceded her in death. From this union, thirteen children were born. She later met and married Roosevelt Rather, and together they built a loving home in Crewe, Virginia, where she established another loving family that cherished her deeply.

Her memory will forever be cherished by her ten surviving children: Gregory Livingston (Mary), Ronald Livingston (Gladys), Carroll Young, Bernard “Jack” Young (Darlene), Carlos Young, Laverne Whitener (Reggie), Ursula Francine Young, Cynthia Young, Ida Carter, and Karen Rather.

Ida Mae had a special love for animals, especially Phoebe, her cherished “granddog.” Though Phoebe originally belonged to her daughter, she quickly became Ida Mae’s constant companion. Their bond was deep, bringing her immense comfort and joy. She also held a tender place in her heart for her dogs Midnight and Mr. Brown, and her beloved bird Tim-Tim, all of whom had passed away. When Tim-Tim died, she was so heartbroken that she called each of her children to pray for her—an expression of both her deep faith and the love she had for the animals who meant so much to her. These pets brought her joy, peace, and unconditional love, reflecting the gentle, nurturing spirit that defined her life.

Ida Mae was lovingly cared for by Karl Anderson, who affectionately called her "Five". He cared for her as if she were his own mother, and his kindness and love brought her great peace.

Her legacy lives on through her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends—five generations in total—who will continue to celebrate her remarkable life and the impact she had on all who knew her.

Ida Mae Young-Rather will be remembered for her loving spirit, her strength, and the unbreakable bond she shared with those who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and resilience that will live on for generations to come. She was a beloved mother, aunt, grandmother, and friend, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rest in peace Momma. You are now in the arms of the Lord.