The Life and Legacy of Missionary Ethel M. Law

Missionary Ethel M. Law, was born October 1, 1950, in Crenshaw County, Alabama and was the cherished daughter of the late Annie R. Merritt and Manford Shephard.

Ethel was the beloved sister of Annie J. Perry, Edward Shephard, and Walter Merritt, all of whom preceded her in death.

In 1956, Ethel and her family moved to Cleveland, OH residing on Crestwood Ave. and attended John Hay High School. She excelled academically and was known for her captivating high-stepping performances at school events.

Ethel dedicated over 35 years to the United States Postal Service where her strong work ethics and intelligence afforded her the opportunity to advance her career.

Her position as a Window Clerk, would latter advance her career as Supervisor and ultimately serving as Postmaster at the Main Campus, Beachwood, Euclid, and Akron, Ohio USPS locations.

Ethel’s mother, the late Annie R. Merritt introduced her to the East 105^th St. Church of God In Christ under the leadership of the late Bishop F. E. Perry.  She found her spiritual home, dedicated her life to Christ, and was an active member with the Hospitality Auxiliary and was a choir member with the Perry Inspirational Choir P.I.C.

During her career at the USPS in Akron, OH, Ethel met and fell in love with Douglas L. Law, a fellow mail carrier. They married and shared 25 years together raising their children and welcoming other children into their family and home.

Ethel and Douglas instilled in their children the value and importance of hard work, respect, sound character and gratitude to God.

After retiring from the United States Postal Service, she embraced her newfound freedom, indulging hobbies and other pastimes that she cherished.

For several years, Ethel worshipped at New Jerusalem COGIC under the leadership of Pastor Grimes.

In 2014, Missionary Law served five years ministering weekly to the nursing home residences in Oakwood Village, OH. During her ministry, residents received the Lord as their personal Savior and were healed.

Evangelist Missionary Ethel Law also served as the secretary and adjutant, to the late District Missionary Clara Darby.

She later returned to Cathedral COGIC and served under Elder Emmitt Nevels, Jr. until her final days.

Missionary Law continued with her ministry and mission work at Shaker Garden Nursing Home until her health no longer allowed her to do so. She also taught Prayer and Bible Band and attended the weekly prayer line ministry Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

Ethel loved attending church including both local and national church conventions, shopping, dining, with friends and family, visiting and ministering to nursing home residents. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family delighting in bowling, skating, swimming, cookouts, watching movies, holiday gatherings, and shopping for her beloved grandchildren.

Ethel left her earthly home for her heavenly home on July 12, 2025, joining her husband Douglas L. Law who preceded her in death. Ethel’s son Ronald Law preceded in death.

She was a lover, a fighter, and a SUVIVOR. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering faith will be profoundly missed by all who loved and knew her.

Ethel leaves to mourn and cherish memories her daughters Michelle Miller, Joy Alexander,

Christina Hawkins, and Norma Jean Griffin (Taylor); her sons Deondre Law (Khamesha), Michael Law, and John Law. Her nephew, Tony Perry, and her niece, Tiffany Shepard. Grandchildren Cierrah, Jaylen, McKenzi, Rylee, Parker, Dallas, Maleike, Makayla, DaSean, Destiny, Khamya, Khamani, Deondre Jr., Nami, Helani, and Jaylee.

Ethel also leaves to cherish her memories nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and cherished church members.

Humbly Submitted,

The Family