Essie Mae Jones' Obituary
Essie Mae Jones, 86, passed away August 1, 2010, with her family by her side in Tacoma, Washington. Ms. Jones was born on February 23, 1924, in Gilmer, Texas, to Henry and Jodie (Darden) Henderson. She moved to Washington in 1952 and made Tacoma her home.
Miss Essie, as her family and friends called her, was a member of the New Hope Baptist Church and enjoyed walking, sewing, gardening, spending time with her grandchildren, and enjoyed reading the Bible. Miss Essie made several contributions to various organizations; her favorite was the Boys & Girls Town (Saving Children, Healing Families). She was known for traveling around town using the bus system which she referred to as her "Cadillac" or her "Limousine."
Those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Her gentile smile and kindness brought so much joy to our family.
Although she was so tiny and frail, she gave us all such courage and hope and reminded us of the preciousness of life. She always told a good story and was known for giving much of herself to all that were in need. She will greatly be missed by her family and everyone who knew her.
Miss Essie is survived by her children, Machelle Jones (Margaret), Debra Burrough, Diane Blount (Marty), and Shelia Brenneman (Steve); son, Mark Martin; and a host of grandchildren: Anthony Allen, Marcus Philpot, Kieona Allen, Fernandez Shaw, Maurice Shaw, Moria Pickings, Michael Brenneman, Matthew Brenneman, D'Nara Jones, Kiana Martine and Vondrae Martin. Miss Essie also has beautiful great-grandchildren Zykius Pickings, and Tres Chere Shaw.
What’s your fondest memory of Essie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Essie?
Share a story where Essie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Essie you’ll never forget.
How did Essie make you smile?