Mrs. Jennie Veronica (Banks) McKissack was born on
February 15th, 1924, in Three League, Louisiana to proud parents Simuel Banks and Mary Wafer Banks. After spending
her formative years engrossed in bayou life, Jennie joined
her sister Alvie in California for better work prospects and
opportunities. In San Diego, CA, she found work at the
Balboa Naval Hospital as a nursing assistant; she
additionally performed domestic work. Jennie eventually met
Lucius McKissack Jr., whom she soon married, and became
the mother of their four children Deborah Ann, Kathy Marie,
Lester Rene, and Glenn Foster.
An enthusiastic gardener and cook, Jennie greatly
enjoyed tending to her wonderful garden which was always
brimming with fresh vegetables and fruits. Strong in her faith
and true to her Christian values, Jennie provided the
McKissack household, on the corner of Delta and 41st
Streets, as a beacon for all in the neighborhood. She was
always ready to provide shelter and comfort to the lonely,
nourishment for the hungry, and to be an embodied example
of God’s unconditional love. After the transition of her
husband, as a comfort zone, Jennie joined the Senior Center
at the Neighborhood House. There is engaged in numerous
activities including taking third place in a drawing exhibition
at Balboa Park and having her picture on the information
pamphlet for the Senior Center.
Jennie is preceded in death by her devoted husband
Lucius McKissack Jr., son Glenn Foster, parents Simuel and
Mary Banks, brothers Simuel, Jr., Leroy, and Emeal, and
eldest sister Alvie. Jennie is survived by her daughters
Deborah and Kathy of San Diego, son Lester (Sue) of
England, as well as grandchildren Diva, Brian and Olivia and
a great-grand daughter Adrena, in addition to many loving
nephews and nieces, extended relatives, and dear long-time
friends in San Diego as well as across the United States.
When my work on earth is done, and I behold the setting of thy sun; Oh, I'm going to my home over there
I shall walk the golden stairs, and be free from every care, and I'll be happy, in my home over there
In my home over there, that the lord has prepared. there will be peace, there will be joy, everywhere
I shall see his face up there, and be free from every care, and I'll be happy in my home over there.....
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