Betty Jean Brown Jenkins

Betty Jean Brown Jenkins, affectionately known to family and friends as Mom Betty/Bet Jean and or B.J. departed her earthly home on September 27, 2019. She was born October 1, 1946 in Columbus, Georgia to her father, John Brown, Sr., and mother Mamie Mae Brown. As an adult, Betty went on to establish a life in New Jersey. Her life was full of rich experiences and meaningful relationships. For decades Betty worked in the healthcare industry where she loved and attended to patients and residents at Memorial Park Home in Piscataway. Anyone who spent time in Betty’s presence knows she was kindhearted, loving, nurturing, and sensitive; and she always kept her word. Yet, her kindness should never be mistaken for weakness. She was a woman who commanded order and excellence. And she made a mean sweet potato pie. As a great virtuous woman of faith, she used her wisdom, talent and resources to serve others. For years, many people had come to depend on Betty’s godly advice. Also, unbeknownst to others they were the recipients of Betty’s ongoing anonymous financial gifts. Betty was an extraordinary singer – she sang with power and conviction. Her signature song was “Thank God I’m Saved” which she recorded at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. She was a member of First Baptist for many years where her uncle Charles H. Brown, Sr. served as senior pastor. She will also be remembered for singing lead to “A Storm is Passing Over.” Betty leaves five siblings to cherish her memories: Sylvia Fenn (Willie); Gloria Brown; Elizabeth James (Delbert); John Brown, Jr. (Donna); and Benjamin (Bennie) Thomas Brown. She was predeceased by Charles Brown and Robert Muhammad. Her children Ernest Jenkins, Jr. (Latesha), John Eric Jenkins (Sandra), and Kimberly Ann Cullen (Christopher), and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Betty also mothered many spiritual children who always be grateful for her love and direction. Betty’s legacy includes several grandchildren: Jamarial Tyanna Richardson, Kamri Jenkins, Elijah Nasir, Derriss Rashun Brooks, Saniyah Cullen, Kimora Lyric Cullen, and Micah Alim Cullen, as well as great-granddaughter Draya Rose Brooks. Betty is the cornerstone on which our family is built upon. She has left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Betty Jean Brown Jenkins

October 1, 1946 - September 27, 2019