Dr. Dr. Jacquelyne E. Wallace Gorum

A Life of Love, Service, and Inspiration - Dr. Jacquelyne "Jaki" W. Gorum

Dr. Jacquelyne W. Gorum was born on July 20, 1939, in Camden, New Jersey, to John Wallace and Evelyn Weekes Wallace but was raised at 446 Muriel Ave in Pitman, New Jersey. The Wallaces had four children-Shirley, Sylvia, Jacquelyne, and John - Jacquelyne was the youngest of the three girls. Jacquelyne was an avid reader and would spend her summers at Camp Atwater in Massachusetts, where she cultivated lifelong friendships with Mary Ann Wilmer, who introduced her to Nancy Kirby, and Judy Gordon. From her earliest days, "Jackie," later changed to "Jaki," as she was affectionately known, radiated joy, energy, and a zest for life that would touch countless hearts in the years to come.

Jaki's infectious laugh and gregarious spirit made her a cherished friend to many. At Pitman High School, she immersed herself fully in school life - serving on student council, joining the typing club, cheering from the sidelines, and singing in the girls' chorus, special choir, and trios. Whether on the field or in the stands, she was a devoted fan of football and tennis, a love she carried into her later years.

Jaki began her college journey at Bradley University before transferring to The Ohio State University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in social work in 1961. While at Ohio State, she was initiated into Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Epsilon Chapter on April 25, 1959-pinned by her beloved sister, Sylvia-beginning a lifelong devotion to sisterhood, service, and excellence. She earned a master's degree from the University of Denver and later a doctorate from Howard University.

Inspired by President John F. Kennedy's call to serve-"Ask not what your country can do for you-ask what you can do for your country"-Jaki joined the very first group of Peace Corps volunteers in 1961. Trained at Notre Dame under the guidance of University President Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, she embarked on a transformative journey to rural Chile, becoming one of the first 100 Americans and the first black woman to serve in the Peace Corps. It was the beginning of a lifelong love of travel and a deep connection with people from all walks of life.

In Chile, God's hand guided her to meet the love of her life - Wendell J. Gorum. Though Wendell had been slated for Africa, destiny brought him to South America, where their paths crossed. After returning to the United States, Jaki pursued graduate studies at the University of Denver, while Wendell attended Syracuse University. Love soon brought them together again, and on November 24, 1964, they were married in Denver, Colorado.

Jaki and Wendell matriculated and taught at various universities over the years, including Stanford, Moorehead State, Penn State, Jackson State, Dartmouth, Howard, and Stony Brook. , Yet her heart found its home at Delaware State University, where she served for over 25 years, rising from classroom professor to administration, and retired from the Dean of Professional Studies. She and Wendell built a loving home and welcomed three sons: Jay (Joseph), Guy, and Marc. She was a devoted and nurturing mother - patient, encouraging, and steadfast - always inspiring her children to pursue their dreams and serve their communities.

After settling in Dover, Jaki became a devoted member of Christ Episcopal Church, where her faith and service continued to shine. She had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and capable of more than they imagined. Her unshakable belief in education as a tool for empowerment was matched only by her boundless love for her family and community. Her leadership left an indelible mark on the university and on generations of young people whose lives she touched.

On Sunday, August 3, 2025, at 86, Dr. Jacquelyne W. Gorum entered eternal rest after a courageous battle with cancer. Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate a life beautifully lived-a life of purpose, love, and service.

She is survived by her sons W. Joseph Gorum II (Marie) and Marc E. Gorum (Renita); grandchildren Marc II, Victoria, Olivia, Joseph Gorum, Ronald Benjamin, Skye and Caden Minors, and Naeem Ibrahim; sisters Shirley Slayton and E. Sylvia Richardson; brother John Wallace, Jr. (Barbara); sisters-in-law Diane Smith, Cathy Austin (Richard), and Rita Bond; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Wendell, parents, John and Evelyn Wallace, her son Guy, and brothers-in-law Charles Slayton, Harry Richardson, and Edward Bond.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that monetary donations be made to the Delta Sigma Theta Dover Alumnae Chapter Scholarship Fund in memory of Dr. Jacquelyne W. Gorum.

Her light will forever guide those who knew her, and her legacy of service, wisdom, and unconditional love will live on in the countless lives she touched.