Life Story Of

Loretta Devore

Loretta Devore was born in Philadelphia, PA December 29, 1941, and was the youngest daughter of the late Essie Devore and Otis Boyd. She peacefully departed her earthly journey on Monday January 19, 2026.

Loretta was educated in the Philadelphia Public School System where she excelled in Inter-Trade Sports and Main Office Support.  After

graduating from Bok High School, Loretta gained employment at Mikes Cleaners on 8th & Cantrell Street. While working at Mikes cleaner’s she met Nolan Johnson and went on to have two sons, Steven and Eric. While working at Mikes cleaners Loretta was determined to make a

better life for herself and her two children. She began studying for the Civil Service exam with the help of her dear friend Doris Pitts testing her along the way.

 In 1974, she gained employment with the US Government Department of Veterans Affairs. While working at the VA Loretta met Charles McDuffie and gave birth to a daughter, Rasheda Devore. Loretta started working for the US Government as a Clerk Typist (GS -1) and worked her way up to become a Contract Specialist (GS-14), working on

multi-millon dollar contracts for the VA, all while having no college

degree, and after 40 years and 3 months she retired in December 2014.

Loretta enjoyed shopping in the vintage and thrift stores with her niece Tysheen and shopping with Rasheda on Saturdays at Franklin Mills. She enjoyed taking trips with her son Eric to family events and long talks on the phone with her son Steven.

She leaves to cherish her memory, sons Steven Devore, Eric Devore (Leslie) and her only daughter Rasheda Devore. Grand Children Ashley Pelzer, Eric (EJ) Devore Jr. Great Grandson Brendan Jackson. Nephews, Billy, Philip, Joe, Larry preceded in Death David. Great Nieces, Rachel, Donna, Lynn, Nicole, and Great Nephew Brian. Her dear Sister friend Doris Pitts and a host of Family and Friends. She was preceded in death by her sister Viola Devore Randolph.