Jenell Mays Williams

June 11, 1947 ~ November 26, 2023

Jenell Mays Williams was born June 11, 1947, in Webster County, Mississippi to the late Sam Mays and Aleene Mays. She grew up in Eupora, Mississippi , but has called California her home since 1965.

Jenell was a real trailblazer before leaving Eupora. She had the pleasure of attending Eupora High school at a time when Dr. Martin Luther King paid the high school a visit. His quest was to identify a student who exuded strength and leadership and wanted to tackle segregation in the area. Jenell was that student who received the recommendation from the then principal, O.D. Jones, because she was not afraid of or intimidated by anyone. She rose to the occasion and applied to work for and was hired by Garan Manufacturing. This was something noy permitted for women of color during the sixties as they were only offered domestic work in the area. Jenell continued to break barriers by becoming the first African American woman to be employed for the welfare system at the courthouse in Walthall. She was proud of her accomplishments. She continued to teach the importance of voting and equal rights.

Jenell relocated to California and was initially the lead singer in a band. She later married and found employment as a first-grade teacher for several years before discovering her true passion for real estate. Jenell owned and operated a real estate and mortgage company for more than thirty years. She was also an excellent cook and a huge supporter of St Jude Children's Hospital as a tribute to her grandchildren.

Jenell departed from this life on November 26, 2023, at Kaiser Hospital in Fontana, California. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Larry Noble Mays. Jenell is survived by two daughters Chiquita Janet Evans (Eric) and Tanya Dollars (Roshawn Sr.) and two grandchildren, Sean and Courtenay. There were also a host of people who adopted Jenell and affectionately called her mom or grandmom.

Jenell wholeheartedly embraced her Christian faith by loving and accepting everyone with open arms. She knew no strangers. Her home was always open to anyone in need. Jenell will be remembered as a strong woman with a loving soul and whose warm embrace stretched across many hearts. Her laugh filled rooms. Her voice captivated audiences. Jenell's wisdom guided us on our paths, and her faith had no bounds. Her love is forever in our hearts.

There will be a visitation Friday, December 8,2023 at 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Wise Reed Funeral Home.

All services for Ms. Williams will be held at Wise Reed Funeral Home Chapel at 12 p.m. Saturday, December 9, 2023, with burial at North Union Cemetery.

Wise Reed Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements.