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Rev. Dr. B.L. Cleveland, Sr.

October 7, 1938 - November 27, 2025
Visitation
Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
6098 North 35th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53209
(414) 466-4342 |
Monday 12/15, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Service
Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
6098 North 35th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53209
(414) 466-4342 |
Monday 12/15, 11:00 am
Cemetery
Wisconsin Memorial Park
13235 West Capitol Drive
Brookfield, Wisconsin 53005
Memorial

In place of flowers, the family prefers contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, a cause dear to their heart.

Dr. B. L. Cleveland

October 7, 1938 – November 27, 2025

Rev. Dr. B. L. Cleveland was born on October 7, 1938, in Gary, Indiana, the sixth of seven children of Elder John H. and Blanche Cleveland. A graduate of Gary Roosevelt High School and Tuskegee University, he later earned advanced degrees from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and Central Michigan University, along with an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Trinity Seminary.

He married Evangelist Elma L. Davis, his devoted wife of more than 60 years, and together they raised four children and were blessed with ten grandchildren.

Rev. Dr. Cleveland served more than 32 years in Milwaukee Public Schools as a teacher, counselor, administrator, and special programs coordinator. In ministry, he founded Eternal Life Church of God in Christ in 1974 and faithfully served as pastor. He held numerous leadership roles within COGIC, including Superintendent of the Trinity District, First Administrative Assistant in the Wisconsin Third Jurisdiction, member of the General Assembly Executive Committee, and official General Assembly timekeeper. He also chaired the Business and Finance Committee, served on the Ordination Board, and helped raise over $40,000 in scholarships for graduating students.

A dedicated community leader, he ministered in correctional facilities throughout Southeastern Wisconsin, where he became known as “The Prison Pastor.” He served with the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC), contributed to the development of Riverside University High School, and launched after-school programs supporting youth and families.

Rev. Dr. Cleveland was also a visionary housing developer. As founder and CEO of New Horizon Property Management, Inc., he established eight multifamily housing communities serving seniors and individuals with disabilities—an enduring testament to his commitment to dignity and care for all.

Rev. Dr. Cleveland leaves behind a legacy of faith, leadership, and compassion. He is survived by his loving wife, Evangelist Elma L. Cleveland; his children—Melody (Steven Ellison), Ondralita, Trila, and Bennie Jr. (Denise Cleveland)—ten grandchildren, and a host of relatives, friends, and church family who honor his remarkable life and service.

Visitation at Mason Temple COGIC, 6098 North 35th Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Monday, December 15, 2025, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM. Service to follow at 11:00 AM. Procession to Wisconsin Memorial Park, Brookfield, Wisconsin.

In place of flowers, the family prefers contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, a cause dear to their heart.

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Krause Funeral Home & Cremation Services
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Liz Harris-Taylor
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Mr and Mrs John Ledbetter
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Yvette Moncrieffe
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Diane Cosey Light a candle
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Visitation
Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
6098 North 35th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53209
(414) 466-4342 | Map
Monday 12/15, 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Service
Mason Temple Church of God in Christ
6098 North 35th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53209
(414) 466-4342 | Map
Monday 12/15, 11:00 am
Cemetery
Wisconsin Memorial Park
13235 West Capitol Drive
Brookfield, Wisconsin 53005
Map
Memorial

In place of flowers, the family prefers contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, a cause dear to their heart.

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Dr. B. L. Cleveland October 7, 1938 – November 27, 2025 Rev. Dr. B. L. Cleveland was born on October 7, 1938, in Gary, Indiana, the sixth of seven children of Elder John H. and Blanche Cleveland. A graduate of Gary Roosevelt High School and Tuskegee University, he later earned advanced degrees from the UniversityContinue Reading

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Annette Parker left a message on December 31, 2025:
Sending our condolences to Mother Cleveland , family & friends. He will be truly missed. Let's Keep those precious memories at Heart. Love you All, Parker Family McKinney Texas
Tasha Johnson left a message on December 15, 2025:
Sending condolences and love to you and your family! Love you, Dr. Jay & Family
Tasha Johnson left a message on December 15, 2025:
Sending condolences and love to you and your family! Love you, Dr. Jay & Family
Liz Harris-Taylor left a message on December 15, 2025:
In memory of Rev. Dr. B.L. Cleveland, Sr., Liz Harris-Taylor lit a candle
Frank A. Davis Jr left a message on December 14, 2025:
Please know family that you have my deepest condolences and are in my prayers. Love Always, Frankie
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Sister Mildred, Nephew Rodney and Niece Lisann left a message on December 14, 2025:
Our deepest sympathies and prayers for your lost. We love you all.
Mr and Mrs John Ledbetter left a message on December 9, 2025:
Our prayers and condolences are with the Cleveland Family.
the Alllrite Team/Jordan Miller left a message on December 8, 2025:
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will be greatly missed. With our deepest condolences - Allrite Home and Remodeling
A memorial tree was planted in memory of Dr. B.L. Cleveland, . Plant a Tree
Yvette Moncrieffe left a message on December 7, 2025:
Please accept our deepest condolences as we pray for your family.
Mr. and Mrs. Marathon Hobbs left a message on December 7, 2025:
We are sorry to hear of the passing of Rev. Cleveland. The family and his wife have our deepest sympathy and prayers.
Diane Cosey left a message on December 7, 2025:
So sorry for your loss...You are in my Prayers.
Krause Funeral Home & Cremation Services left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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