Mrs. Edalene Roberta Haynes' Obituary
Edalene Davenport Haynes was born to Edgar and Harriet Davenport on August 18, 1920, in Montgomery, Alabama. She was the elder sister to her beloved younger brothers Jeff (1985), Edgar, and Andy, and two sisters, Ada and Peggy Anne (deceased).
Harriet Davenport recognized the value of a good education. As a successful entrepreneur, she worked hard to send Edalene to Tuskegee, where she met her college sweetheart, George Edward Haynes, Jr. They married at Tuskegee Institute.
Edalene and George raised two children, George Edward and Elizabeth. Edalene dedicated over 35 years to public education, teaching home economics and adult night school in the Houston Independent School District. She was known for her friendship with Mrs. Ruth Thornton, whom she affection ately called “teacher,” and her steadfast commitment to Booker T. Washington High School. Edalene and George were happily married for nearly 60 years until George’s passing in September 2001. While George was the love of her life, Edalene found immense joy in her children, George Edward III, and Elizabeth “Ba-Ba.” Her love for her three grandchildren was limitless, and they affectionately called her Grandearie. Despite an initial skepticism towards her outspoken and somewhat boisterous son-in-law, Larry Jemison, Sr., their relationship blossomed into a loving bond. They’d laugh while recounting a memory from a visit to Tuskegee’s campus when Edalene jokingly said, “Lord, I hope that’s not him,” which became a cherished story.
Edalene’s life was filled with beauty and passion. She had a fondness for fine garments, Mount Vernon United Methodist Church, and exotic flowers. At one time, she served as the president of her local Houston Garden Club, demonstrating her love for nature and community. She was also a member of the Top Ladies Club and inspired those around her with her social graces.
Edalene, was appreciated for her conversations, vast family memories, and spirited personality. Her love for her daughter enabled them to build many memories of vacations, cruises, and trips across the country.
Edalene Haynes is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth Haynes Jemison (Larry), three grandchildren, Ledra Jemison, George Edward Haynes (Allison) IV, and Larry Jemison Jr., her brother Andy, and sister Ada. She leaves four great-grandchildren: Madison Jemison, Jada Jemison, Taryn Haynes, and Grayson Haynes and a host of loved ones.
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