Lenel Elmo Golden was born in Minter City, Mississippi, on October 11, 1949.  Lenel was the cherished son of the late Elmo and Ruth Golden.  Lenel departed this life on November 20, 2025, at the age of 76.

He moved with his family to Cleveland, Ohio at the age of six, and accepted Christ at an early age.  Lenel attended John F. Kennedy High School where he graduated in 1968.  Lenel was a hard worker and held various jobs at a tender age.  After working many odd jobs, he began his long career with RTA, where he proudly served as a bus driver for the City of Cleveland and retired after 30 years. After retirement to fulfill his love for driving, he drove the employee shuttle for Hillcrest Hospital and Solon Community Center.

Affectionately known as “June”, he was known for his great smile, cool demeanor & memorable stroll. He loved golfing and had a passion for playing backgammon. A true sports enthusiast, he truly enjoyed baseball, basketball, football and bowling.  He had an unmatched passion for cars and took great pride in keeping his vehicles extremely clean and always detailed.  For him, cleanliness was next to Godliness.

Lenel enjoyed shopping, collecting watches, and listening to Jazz.  He also had a love for dancing.

Lenel loved family outings and was thrilled being around his family and friends.  He loved good conversations, talking sports, and was an avid listener—attentive, patient, thoughtful, and always ready to give good advice. He was a nurturer and very supportive in your time of need.  He had a love for different colognes and always smelled great.  Lenel had a love for desserts, especially Rhondel’s banana pudding.  He loved watching Westerns and enjoyed going to the movie theatre.  Lenel adored his children and grandchildren in all their endeavors which brought him complete joy.

Lenel was preceded in death by Ruth Golden (Mother) and Elmo Golden (Father).

Lenel leaves to cherish his loving memory, his children; Marcel Golden (Sonita), Rhondel Golden (Tony), Anjanette Watson, Latrel Golden; Andre Golden (Brooke), Grandchildren; Christopher Golden, Perris Watson Blackman, Terrel Golden, Arionna Patterson, Jasmine Golden, Paityn Herring, Montana Golden, Great Grandson; Jordyn Collier.

Lenel is survived by his siblings; Eloise Duckworth, Linda Clemons, Brenda Golden, Moneda Golden, Jerome Golden Sr (Marilyn), Romel Golden (Felicia), Michael Golden, Jeffrey Golden. He leaves two Aunts Undean Brown and Willie B Simmons of Chicago, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  He treasured his lifelong friendship with Clarice “Elaine” Green.