Corine Jones - Washington

Ms. Corine Jones Washington was born on October 22, 1936, to the late William McKinley Jones Sr. and Mary Howard-Jones in Como, Mississippi.

Born the fifth child of sharecroppers, she grew up in the deep South and later made Memphis her home. Corine was one of ten beloved siblings. She is survived by her sisters Mary Francis Jones Smith, Bertha Lee Jones Williams, Louella Jones Williams, and Willie Ann Jones Bradshaw, as well as her brother Eugene Jones. She was preceded in death by her brothers Otis Jones, McKinley Jones Jr., John Clifton Jones, and James Edward Jones. Corine cherished the special bond she shared with each of her siblings and held their memories close to her heart throughout her life.

She was united in holy matrimony to Abraham Washington Sr. on May 14, 1954. From this union came eight beautiful children: five sons – Willie E. Washington, Charles E. Washington, Abraham Washington Jr., Joseph H. Washington (who preceded her in death), and Audwin Washington; and three daughters – Mary L. Jones, Janice ReShae, and B. Kay Hicks.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory: 23 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren and her beloved daughters and sons-in-law. Corine, affectionately known as "Mom", "Mama," and "Grandma" was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and woman of unwavering faith. She was a member of The Word Church in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised her children with Christian values, always emphasizing the importance of church, morals, integrity, and self-respect.

Corine was a phenomenal cook - known for feeding both body and soul. Her front porch was her sanctuary, where she enjoyed fresh air, quiet moments, and warm conversations. She absolutely loved her family and never missed an opportunity to pour into them.

In the mid-1970s, Corine became a member of the Grand Chapter of Tennessee Order of the Eastern Star. Corine was known for her quick wit and her ability to deliver a dose of truth - always laced with humor. Her children and grandchildren affectionately called her "The Queen of Shade," but her shade always came with a smirk and a sparkle in her eye.

She peacefully departed this life on May 16, 2025. She lived a full and meaningful life - rooted in faith, anchored in love, and wrapped in wisdom. Our Mother's presence is deeply missed, but her legacy lives on in the lives of those she

touched and the generations she raised.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."