Massa Clarice Karneh was born on August 7, 1942, in the vibrant community of Robertsport, Liberia, where she was enveloped in the warmth of her loving family. Raised by her devoted parents, Lamie Soko Karneh and Joieh Maima Fahnbulleh, alongside her siblings, Lahai, Yetta, and Foley, Massa was surrounded by a rich tapestry of love, support, and shared experiences. The influence of the late Mr. Ernest C. B. Jones Sr. and late Mrs. Georgia Jones further enriched her upbringing, which included more childhood siblings nurturing a spirit of love and community that defined her life. The names of her beloved siblings within the Jones Household are as follows: Dr. AE Nyema Jones, Justine Tiedi Nimley (deceased), Luna Perry Castle, Elfreda Teetee Gibson (deceased), Carlos Ajavon (deceased), Garwo Alvin Jones, Georgia Appleton, Robert Martiesen (deceased), Edna Deedee Martiesen, Ruth Sando Perry (deceased), Mariah Wreh (deceased).

From her earliest days at Martha Tubman Memorial Day School to her time at St. Teresa's Convent, Massa shone brightly as a nurturing, intelligent, and strong woman of faith. Her unwavering devotion to the Lord was a guiding light throughout her life, as she regularly attended Trinity Monrovia Church, where her love for God and His Word blossomed.

Massa was not only an extraordinary orator with a remarkable gift for communication, but she also embraced life with open arms. She brought joy to those around her, often seen socializing, dancing, and showcasing her impeccable fashion sense. Her generous heart knew no bounds; she was always ready to open her home and her heart to those in need, often sharing her last resources to help others.

After graduating from St. Teresa's Convent, Massa began a fulfilling career as an international phone operator for the Telecommunications Building in Downtown Monrovia. Her professional journey continued when she joined the US Embassy in Liberia in 1976 as an executive switchboard operator, where she served with dedication for many years.

On September 9, 1960, Massa married, Benjamin T. Collins, and together they raised beautiful children: Frank Foley Teba, Lamie Edwards (Konah), Ada Maima (Kedrick), Benetta, and Daniel Sie, and bonus son Benrus Collins. Her youngest son, Mike Hakim, was born in 1969. Each child was a treasure, and her love for them transcended borders.

Massa first ventured to the United States in 1984 to visit her daughter, Ada. Over the years, she traveled back and forth, spending cherished time in Oklahoma with Ada and briefly in New Jersey with her son Lamie. In the US, her nurturing spirit continued to shine through her work as a caretaker at the YMCA's Kidzone and as a compassionate sitter for families with loved ones in nursing homes.

After retiring, Massa embraced her newfound freedom, traveling to see her beloved family across the country, with Tulsa, Oklahoma, as her cherished home base. She found joy in the simple pleasures-sipping Coca-Cola, praying with Joel Osteen on Sundays, and cheering on her favorite WWE wrestlers on Mondays. Her grandchildren affectionately called her "Gaga," the name becoming a testament to the love and joy she brought to their lives.

Massa instilled in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren the importance of education and a steadfast reliance on the Lord. She tirelessly worked to ensure that no one went without, generously adopting others into her heart as her own grandchildren. Her love was a radiant gift that she shared freely, leaving an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Massa was truly everyone's Gaga-a calming, powerful spirit whose legacy of love will continue to inspire and uplift us all.

Massa passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 5, 2024, surrounded by her loving daughter Ada, son-in-law Kedrick, and cherished grandchildren Amber, Kedrica, and Kedleen. She is survived by her children Foley, Lamie, Ada, D.S., Mike, and her bonus son Benrus, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins who loved her deeply.

While we mourn her physical absence, we take comfort in knowing that Massa has returned to her ultimate home, embracing freedom and full wellness with our Heavenly Father. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all she touched, reminding us to love fiercely, live fully, and cherish the connections that bind us together.

Service Details

Services For : Massa C. Karneh --- MAIDEN NAME: Karneh

Viewing Hours: 10:00 - 6:00 PM at Moore Southlawn Chapel

Visiting Hours: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Visitation Date: Friday, November 8th, 2024

Place Of Service: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Time & Date of Service : 9:00 AM Saturday, November 9th, 2024