Mrs. Jessie Mae (Harp) Underwood was the second of seven siblings. She was born on June 22, 1937, in Lamar County, to the late George Harp and Lowrannie Harp.
Jessie received her education in Lamar County, where she attended Booker High School. In 1955, she married her one true love, Willie Herman Underwood, Sr. Jessie dedicated many years of her life working as a dietitian for the Lamar County School System until her retirement in 2001.
Jessie joined Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church at a very young age, and remained a member, until her passing. Jessie was a woman whose kindness left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She carried herself with quiet strength, offering love, wisdom, and warmth in ways both big and small. Her laughter could brighten the darkest days, and her compassion created a sense of home wherever she went. She gave selflessly to her family and friends, Always putting others before herself without seeking recognition. Jessie’s legacy is one of grace, resilience, and unwavering love -a life beautifully lived and deeply cherished. Her memory will continue to guide and comfort those she leaves behind.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Willie Herman Underwood, Sr., and her daughter, Angela Marie (Underwood) Foster, and her son, Willie Herman Underwood, Jr.
Jessie entered eternal rest on April 25, 2026. She leaves to cherish her loving memory: Her daughter, Susie (Eric) Banks; her siblings, Charlie Wesley (Jackie) Harp, John Earnest (Gladys) Harp, Marvin (Lilly) Harp and special friend Barbara Penn; her sister, Jean (The late James) White. She is also survived by her granddaughters, Lavista Allen and Kenyonna Foster; her grandson, Glentavious Parks; her great-grandchildren, Quintarious O’Neal, Breasha Parks, and Elijah Pierre; her great-great-grandchildren, Zayden West and Jai’Ceon Smith; along with A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Final Resting Place
Mt Pleasant Baptist Church Cemetery
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