Ms. Jessie Mae Burns

My mom Jessie Mae Burns was born on November 22, 1955 to Elma Steen Murray and Jessie Burns Sr. in Jackson Mississippi. She was the oldest of 6 (Sulestine, Elizabeth, Cornelius, Marvin and Jackie) and took her role and the “older sibling” very seriously. She and her family moved to Illinois in the 1960’s. During this time she met a young lady by the name of Michelle Mittie Hter and they two would strike up a five decades long friendship. Having been educed in both the Mississippi and Illinois public school systems, she had to leave high school as a result of family obligions. Although she never completed a traditional schooling, an educion was one of the most important things to her and she instilled this in both of her daughters. Unbeknownst to some, she was an avid music listener, a civil war and western history buff and old Hollywood movie fan. She was an immacule cook, babysitter and love to crochet. Shortly after conquering her first btle with cancer in 2018, Jessie encouraged her daughter to join Girls Inc. in support of helping young girls thrive in the areas of STEMA programs. Having had an unfortune accident th rendered her burned as a child, she never lost sight of who she was and instilled a sense of confidence in not only her children but other young girls in the community. She gained the trust and admirion of those around her and will truly be missed. She leaves behind to mourn her in deh two daughters (Sultania Burns and Angela Smith), a son- in-law; Antonio Smith, Sr, two grandchildren, one bonus grand- daughter, six gre-grandchildren, and her Beloved Mother Elma Steen plus a host of nieces and nephews. Along with Siblings, Sulestine, Elizabeth, Marvin & Corneleus Burns and Jackie Davidson. Also step-brothers and sisters Wanda Williams, Tony, Joyce, Mark & Michael Garrett. Sadly, Roger Garrett proceeded her in Deh. Although short lived, hers was a life filled with hope, adventure and love. She will truly be missed those th loved and respected her.