Reflections of Life
Mother Verna Mae Jones was born on December 6, 1925, in Memphis, TN, to the late John Robert and Lillie Bell Mangum. She attended Booker T. Washington High School.

In April of 1945, she was united in Holy Matrimony to Frank Lee Jones. From this union, they were blessed with three children: Ardrey Cash, Frank Lonnell Jones, and Charlotte Jones. Frank and Verna were married for 34 years, until he preceded her in death on September 26, 1979. Also preceding her in death were her three brothers: Earnest Mangum, Louis Mangum, and James Mangum; and three of her sisters: Vivian Nell Woods, Mary Sturdivant and Robbie Sykes. As promised, Verna stepped in as "Auntie/Mom" for her nieces and nephews- Karl Sturdivant, Rita Sturdivant, Beverly Mangum (deceased), Brenda Woods, Gerald Woods, Joseph Woods, Joyce Shaw, and Angela Gray.

Verna accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at a young age and joined South Fort Pickering Church of God in Christ (now Greater Harvest COGIC). Here, she was a dedicated member for over 85 years, faithfully serving as a youth leader, choir member and church mother. For over 30 years, she served as head of the Mother''s Board. Verna truly loved her church.

Verna was employed with Screen Graphics for 30 years. After retiring, she was blessed to nurture and care for children in her home. From grandchildren to children who grew to know her as Granny, Verna poured her unconditional love into each and every one of them.

As the Matriarch of the Mangum family, Mother Jones was affectionately known as Mom, Granny, Auntie, Sister, and Friend. From her infectious smile to her beautiful, yet witty personality, she never met a stranger. She had a unique way of impacting the lives of all those she came in contact with. For some, she was a sweet encouraging voice; to others, she was the mother they never had. Verna had a special love for her goddaughter, Maggie Vann, whom she also considered one of her own. Hundreds of lives have been touched by her generous and compassionate spirit. May the legacy of Verna Mae Jones, a priceless jewel, forever flourish in the hearts of us all.

Our beloved mother made her earthly transition on Tuesday, September 19, 2017, at Baptist East Hospital. Her life will always be cherished in the lives of her children: Ardrey Cash and Charlotte Jones of Memphis, TN, Frank Lonnell (Billie) Jones of Houston, TX, her sister Julia Scott (Lee) Ward of Memphis, TN, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and goddaughter. She also leaves a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, family, friends and the entire membership of Greater Harvest COGIC to cherish her memory.