Mrs. Herschel Davis Gaines Herschel
Jean Davis Gaines, 77, passed away on Jan. 30, 2020, at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital in Jonesboro.
She was born Oct. 7, 1942, in Togo Community in Parkin, Arkansas.
Mrs. Gaines lived in Jonesboro with her husband of 57 years, Dr.
Wilbert Gaines. She was a devoted mother to their three daughters Jacquelyn (Bishop Mays), Michelle and Genee’ and one adopted daughter Evelyn “Pepper” (Ken Perkins). She was a doting grandmother to Bishop Christopher, Wilbert Gavin and Sydnee Michelle Mays. She is survived by two adoring nephews, Hershel Davis and Darryl Brown and one brother James C.
Davis.
Mrs. Gaines’ generous contributions to the lives of others include more than 50 years as an educator, Craighead County Spelling Bee moderator for 20 years, golden members of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. and Alpha Delta Kappa, Sunday school teacher, mentorship to countless youth and adults, and numerous other civic and church affiliations.
She was an active contributor at First Baptist Church Kitchen Street, Jonesboro and a dedicated lifelong member of Shady Grove MBC #2.
Mrs. Gaines received countless awards, honors and recognitions throughout her lifetime.
However, she was most proud of her relationships with people, longtime friendships and the ever-present love of her family.
Visitation will be Friday, Feb. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m., at First Baptist Church, 700 Kitchen St., in Jonesboro. Homegoing Service will be Saturday, Feb. 8, at noon, at First Baptist Church, 701 S.
Main St., in Jonesboro, with interment immediately following at Jonesboro Memorial Park.
Mrs. Gaines loves flowers and all florae are welcome. To continue her legacy, please consider donating to the AKA Herschel Gaines Academic Achievement Scholarship. Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home of Jonesboro.
