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"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me" ~ Psalm 23:4

Jessie Bethedra Stephens Parker, the oldest child of James "Scrap" Stephens and Viney Mae Smith Stephens, was born on November 17, 1938, in Madison, Florida, the community where she also lived the early years of her life. Because of her career, she relocated to Detroit, Michigan, and Bridgeport, Connecticut, respectively. However, twenty years ago, she established her retirement residency in Gainesville, Florida.

Jessie grew up with God-fearing parents who took their children to church every Sunday. While they were faithful members of St. Thomas African Methodist Episcopal Church, they also attended Lime Sink Missionary Baptist Church within the community. With a strong spiritual foundation, Jessie confessed her belief that Jesus Christ was her Savior, was baptized by faith, and faithfully served as a dedicated member of St. Thomas.

Jessie acquired her formal education at Madison County Training School, the segregated school for African American students. Because of the supportive village-teachers, parents, church, and community fostering goal setting, students were successfully prepared for real world experiences. Following her 1956 high school graduation, Jessie enrolled in Edward Waters College (now Edward Waters University) in Jacksonville, Florida. She graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in 1958. She returned home to secure her first career position as secretary of Greenville Training School. Her career path later elevated her for employment as an auditor for Aetna Insurance Company, a position she dedicated her untiring service until her retirement.

Jessie's retirement years included quality time for enjoying her family. She loved going to her favorite fishing holes, cooking favorite foods/meals, and being a road runner (traveling). She also was an avid golfer on the fairway with her hole-in-one, eagle, or handicap. Likewise, she was an enthusiastic bowler with the perfect game in her Bowling League.

Jessie adored her extended family and was a supportive role model and matriarch. While she was not blessed with her own biological children, she was a favorite auntie/ second mom for her nieces and nephews. She loved them unconditionally and cherished the wonderful memories they helped create during the holidays or on "just because" visits.

Blessed with eternal life are those who believe in Christ. On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, Jessie Bethedra Stephens Parker quietly transitioned from her labor to rest eternally with the Lord.

Another leaf from the Stephens family tree has fallen. Jessie Bethedra Stephens Parker's leaf is her legacy of life lived with love and laughter that she left in the sands of time. She is gone from her loved ones' sight but never from their hearts. Those who will miss her until they see her again are her siblings: Melva Stephens Morfaw of Cherry Lake, FL, Gloria Sims-Fargas of Gainesville, FL, Theola Killings, Andrew Stephens, and Vernell Williams, all of Madison, FL, and Adolphus Stephens of Leesville, LA; a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; along with many other loving relatives and friends. Preceding Jessie Bethedra Stephens Parker in death were her parents: James Stephens and Viney Mae Smith Stephens; husbands: Jerry McGee (in 1972) and Robert Parker (in 2008); along with brothers: Marion Stephens and Leroy Stephens.