Jacquelyn Ann Smith Littlefield

Jacquelyn Ann Smith Littlefield

Jacquelyn Ann Smith Littlefield died peacefully after a brief illness Wednesday afternoon, February 27, 2013 at her home in Memphis, TN.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Inez Parker and Henry David Smith; her beloved grandparents, Beulah Gill and John Houston Parker; husband, William Luther Littlefield.

She is survived by children, Ann Houston Gilbert (Joseph III), John Fariss Littlefield (Adrienne), Jean Littlefield Bright (Tom); grandchildren, Erin Gregory Shouse, Megan Gregory Spivey (Michael), Chloe Madison Littlefield, Evan Thomas Bright; great grandchildren, Parker James Shouse and Michael Houston Spivey. She is also survived by her childhood friend, soul-mate, and love of her life, J. Alan Horne.

Born in Martin, TN, Ms. Littlefield spent her adult years in Jackson, TN and then Memphis where she continued to be a life-long social activist. She was selected as "Miss Martin" at the age of 15. She graduated from the University of Tennessee in Martin and completed graduate courses at Memphis State University. Professionally, Ms. Littlefield was a leader in the development and implementation of Tennessee's Child and Adult protective services system's pilot programs. In Jackson, she was a charter member of the NAACP and was instrumental in integrating the school system.

In Memphis, she developed and directed a program, Project R.A.P. (responsible adolescent parenting), designed to teach high school mothers to properly care for their young children while keeping the mothers in school. She was twice recognized by the American Public Welfare Association and four times designated as an exemplary model program by the Tennessee General Assembly. She was a member of the Harmony Circle of Kings Daughters and Sons and served several terms as president. She also served as Chairperson of the Endowment Fund and she was instrumental in the building of a new state-of-the art nursing home facility.

For many years, she served as a member of United Way's grant selection, approval and monitoring committee. Ms. Littlefield was also a member of several boards of non-profit organizations throughout her life. She was a cherished member of Highland Heights Presbyterian Church. In retirement, some of her greatest joys were international travel, frequent trips to the beach, and spending time with J.

As a final act of charity, she donated her body to the University of Tennessee for research.

A memorial service and celebration of her life will held at a later date.

The family wishes to gratefully acknowledge the staffs of Belmont Village and of Crossroads Hospice for their loving care and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor her may donate to the KDS Harmony Circle, 3586 Appling Road, Bartlett, TN 38133; The Highland Heights Presbyterian Church, 2855 Morning Sun Road, Cordova, TN 38016; or the charity of their choice.