Jessie Mae Lemons

With grace, strength, and deep faith, Mrs. Jessie Mae Lemons peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on August 1, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on December 30, 1948, in Brooklet, Georgia, she was the beloved daughter of the late Hinson Howard, Sr., and Leonia Howard. A woman whose presence was both gentle and powerful, Jessie Mae lived a life rooted in faith, selflessness, and a deep devotion to her family.

A proud graduate of the former William James High School, Class of 1960, Mrs. Lemons pursued her passion for service as a certified dietitian. For many years, she faithfully served as Head Cook and Dietitian at Heritage Inn Health and Rehabilitation in Statesboro, where her meals were seasoned not only with skill but with love and care. Her work was never just a job; it was a ministry of nourishment and compassion.

Jessie Mae was united in holy matrimony with the love of her life, Mr. Herman Lemons. Their marriage, a sacred bond lasting an incredible 62 years, was a shining example of enduring love and spiritual partnership. Herman preceded her in death just weeks earlier, on June 11, 2025; fitting for two hearts that walked hand in hand in this life and now resting together in glory.

Affectionately known for her warm soul and wise sayings, like "Tomorrow ain't promised to you" and "My God Almighty!"; Jessie Mae was the heart and soul of every gathering. Her love of cooking brought comfort to countless family meals, while her talent for artwork and her enjoyment of classic Westerns showed the beauty and simplicity of the things she loved. A lifelong member of Little Bethel Baptist Church, she lifted her voice in the choir, worshiping God with both reverence and joy.

She leaves to cherish her memory two loving sons: Frankie Lee (Carita) Lemons of Brooklet, GA, and Norman Howard of Trenton, TN, and her treasured grandchildren: Jessica Lemons and Tylon Howard; and two precious great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her devoted siblings: Hinson (Linda) Howard of Jacksonville, FL; Adella (Tyrone) Howard of Atlanta, GA; Joe Howard of Pickens, SC; Diane (Stanley) Clark of Alexandria, VA; Delorise (Cameron) Howard Shaw of Locust Grove, GA; and Johnny (Cassandra) Howard of Collierville, TN. Also mourning her passing are her sisters-in-law Patricia Taylor and Shirley (Emmitt) Porter; brothers-in-law Homer Lemons, Billy Johnson, and Ronnie Cope; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss her dearly.

She now reunites in eternal peace with her parents, her loving husband Herman, her brothers Freddie and Ronnie Howard, and her sisters Patricia Joyce and Mamie Lee McNeal.

Mrs. Jessie Mae Lemons was a woman of dignity, humility, and radiant love. She was a quiet giant; never needing a spotlight, yet always the source of warmth and wisdom. Her life was her testimony, and her legacy is etched in the hearts of all who knew her.

As we celebrate her homegoing, we rest in knowing she has heard the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." Her journey here is complete, but the light she shared will forever continue to shine.

Public viewing for Mrs. Lemons will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 2:00 - 5:00 PM at the funeral home.

The family will receive visitors for the family visitation on Friday, August 8, 2025, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

Funeral services to honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Jessie Mae Lemons will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Little Bethel Baptist Church, 327 Railroad St, Brooklet, GA 30415, with Pastor Brock Taylor, officiating and Rev. John T. McPhatter, pastor/presiding.

Burial will follow at Bulloch Memorial Gardens.

Active pallbearers will be Anthony Howard, Roosevelt Cone, Larry Cone, Cameron Shaw, Randy Keller, and Bernard Howard.

Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements.

Family and friends may sign the online register book, express online condolences, send flowers or other memorial gifts via our website.