Mrs. Earlean Jenkins Washington

Mrs. Earlean Jenkins Washington, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of God, entered into eternal rest on January 30, 2025. She was born on September 30, 1934, in Brandon, Mississippi, to the union of Levi and Geneva Jenkins. Earlean is welcomed into heaven by loved ones who preceded her in death including her parents, Levi and Geneva Jenkins; her devoted husband, J.C. Washington; her siblings, Levi Jenkins, Thelma Kersh, and Earnestine Smith; and her grandson, Jermaine Hill. A Life of Faith and Service Earlean's spiritual journey began early in life at Taylorsville Methodist Church, where she accepted Christ as her personal Savior. Upon marrying J.C. Washington, she joined Sweet Home Church of Christ Holiness USA, remaining a dedicated member until she and her husband relocated to Berkeley, California. There, she became a member of All Nations COCHUSA before later transferring to Emmanuel COCHUSA in Oakland, California. Following her husband's retirement, the couple returned home to Brandon, Mississippi, where they rejoined Sweet Home COCHUSA. Earlean remained a faithful servant, dedicating her time and love to various ministries, including the kitchen committee and the deaconess board, until her health no longer allowed her to serve. A Commitment to Learning and Hard Work Earlean's educational journey began at Taylorsville School before she attended Carter High School, from which she graduated in 1953. Prior to that, she and her sister attended Lanier High School in Jackson, as there were no high schools for African Americans in Rankin County at the time. In 1962, she earned her cosmetology license and later pursued vocational training as a nursing attendant, embodying a lifelong commitment to learning and service. A Heart for Family and Hospitality Earlean had a deep love for opening her home and sharing meals with others, often hosting pastors, their wives, and visiting family and friends. She was well known for her delicious homemade meals, including cakes, cobblers, pies, and her unforgettable homemade ice cream. She also had a passion for sewing, which she enjoyed until her health declined. A Loving Legacy On March 5, 1955, Earlean united in holy matrimony with J.C. Washington, and together they built a beautiful life centered around faith, family, and love. Earlean will be remembered and missed by her children Pauline (Charles) Thomas of Vallejo, CA; Doris (Larry) Thompson of Austin Town, OH; Willie (Jean) Washington, Cassandra (Felton) Hill, Arnetta (Ado, deceased) Bolton, and Joe (Brenda) Washington of Brandon, MS; and Lavetta (Edward, deceased) Pettway of San Leandro; sister Barbara (Ira) Bridges of Brandon, MS; brother Shedrick (Helen) Byrd of Norfolk, VA; and brother-in-law Isaiah Washington, Sr; sisters-in-law Shirley Jenkins Thompson; Gertha Washington; Bonnie Leonard; Earnestine (John) McLin; Barbara Turner, Vickie Robinson, and the Jones Family; and 23 Grandchildren, and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished by her seven children: Additionally, she leaves behind a treasured family of in-laws, including brother-in-law Isaiah Washington Sr.; sisters-in-law Shirley Jenkins Thompson, Gertha Washington, Bonnie Leonard, Earnestine (John) McLin, Barbara Turner, Vickie Robinson, and the Jones Family. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her 23 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Earlean's life was a testament to faith, love, and service. She was a beacon of warmth and generosity, touching the lives of everyone she encountered. While she will be deeply missed, her legacy of kindness and devotion will forever be treasured by those who were blessed to know her.

Mrs. Earlean Jenkins Washington

September 30, 1934 - January 30, 2025