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Mother Jessie LaVerne Jenkins was the fourth child born to the parents of Tilman and Cloties Singleton on November 25, 1935. Mother Jenkins was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, and one sister. She leaves to carry the torch, with hope of the Great Resurrection: Skip (Sharnett), James, Carolyn, Bobby, Jesse (Angela), John (Gwen), Barbara, Bruce (LaRonda), and Lydia; 30 Grandchildren, 54 Great Grand- children, nine Great-Great Children, a host of relatives/friends, and a community in which she loved.

Mother Jenkins grew up in the rural area of Ruston, Louisiana. She attended Grambling Elementary School and graduated from High School. Mother Jenkins met the love of her life John Jenkins in Mt. Olive while walking down a dirt road. After courting for some time, John went to Jessie’s father and asked for her hand in marriage. With his blessings, the two became one. This union bought forth eight precious children and a loving Goddaughter. With eight of her own, she still managed to feed and babysit many others. Her passion has always been youth and the community.

Mother Jenkins accepted Christ at a young age at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Ruston, LA. Once married and moved to Southern California, she became a member of Greater Light Apostolic Faith Church under the leadership of Bishop Isaiah Flucker. This is where she was saved and began to live for Christ. Mother Jenkins was a devoted member of this church and was finally able to convince her husband John to attend. It was during this time that John was saved and became a member of Greater Light Apostolic Faith Church until they started to attend Mt. Calvary Assembly Apostolic Faith Church under the leadership of Bishop Frank Canada.

Her husband, Eld. Jenkins became the Pastor of the church located at 10114 Beach Street in Watts, CA., before reconstructing the current building located at 1920 E. 103rd street in Watts. Here she served as the honorable First Lady, Secretary and Mother serving individuals and families of the Watts Community. Children was one of her favorite pastimes. Her cooking also bought friends and family near and far to visit. Holidays and any given Sunday, her house was the place to be for some good southern home cooking made from scratch.

Mother Jenkins was a loyal participant in the Women of Watts March. She was an activist for the cause until her health began to decline.

If a vote was taken to determine the passion, charisma, and drive of a person committed to this community, Mother Jenkins would be voted #1!