The sun set on a beautiful, vivacious life on April 9, 2024, as Lillie Mae Jernigan, beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and community pillar peacefully departed this world. Born in Paines, Mississippi on January 16, 1936, Lillie’s life was a testament to resilience, dedication, and love. Her generous spirit touched the lives of many, and her creative abilities were reflected in her hobbies, which included baking, shopping, and honing her skills as a seamstress, beautician, and artist. The light of her spirit shone brightly as she was crowned Miss Mt. Calvary Queen twice, an honor that spoke to her charm and grace.
Lillie was a woman of many firsts, always living her life with a sense of purpose and dedication. She made history as the first African American woman to become a Welding Supervisor at Exel, a testament to her resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence. She also owned an Adult Foster Care Homes, pouring her loving heart into caregiving, a field that allowed her to express her innate generosity and compassion. Her dedication extended to her active role in the Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, where she served on the Choir, Usher, Fundraiser, Financial, and Mothers Board.
Her involvement in the Prince Hall Grand Chapter order of the Eastern Stars as Deputy Grand Lecturer, Al Zabir Court #141 Daughters of Isis Desert of Michigan, as past Commandress, Golden Circle Faith Assembly of Michigan #63, as an officer, and Marion Chapter #56 OES Prince Hall Affiliate, demonstrated her deep commitment to community service. As Psalms 37:3 reads, “Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture,” Lillie exemplified these words, dedicating her life to the service of others, and leaving an indelible mark on all who had the fortune of knowing her.
Lillie is survived by her daughter Victoria (Bernard) Roberts, step-children Paulette Johnson, Shawnte Jernigan, Mike Hammond, Ernest Hammond; her brother Timothy (Marie) Shaw, sister Eva Gorman, and brother Lonnie Watkins. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren Nicole Byrd, Latosha Watkins, Damara Watkins, Daryl Watkins, Dylan Garris, Jaydan Garris, Devin Watkins, and Clarvon Robinson, 5 great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
Lillie was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Lottie Watkins, her dear husband Rev. Jernigan, daughter Nanette Watkins, step-daughter Eva Morrison, siblings Charles Watkins, Willie Bacon, and Johnny Gorman.
A funeral service will be held in honor of Lillie on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 12:00 pm EDT at Mt Calvary Baptist Church, 601 Ferry Street, Niles, Michigan, 49120. In the words of Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven,” Lillie’s life was a beacon of love, generosity, and dedication, a light that will continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved her. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos to Lillie’s memorial page, celebrating her life, and cherishing the love and joy she brought into our lives.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan.
Posted On: Wednesday, April 17, 2024 3:32 PM
