Obituary of Celestine Simpson Jordan

On Sunday, May 15, 2011, a quiet warrior peacefully departed this life in Powhatan, Virginia, surrounded by family and dedicated caretaker. Celestine Simpson Jordan was born on February 4, 1919, in Powhatan to the late Charles F. and Lillie Pearl Simpson. She is the last of the six siblings born to this union. She was predeceased by her husband, Clyde Wilson Jordan; her sisters, Bertha S. Johnson, Faustina S. Trent, and Baylies S. Brown; and her brothers, Lorenzo Charles Simpson and Slyvester Franklin Simpson. Celestine attended public schools in Powhatan and Halifax counties. She then furthered her education at St Paul's College in Lawrenceville, Virginia, Virginia State College (university), in Petersburg, VA, Hampton Institute (university) in Hampton, VA, and Virginia Union University in Richmond, VA. She initiated her teaching career in Goochland Virginia, and later taught in the Powhatan School system from 1945 until her retirement in June 1979. In August 1967, Celestine was one of the first two African American teachers to integrate the staff at the Powhatan Elementary School, prior to the system being fully integrated in the county in the years to come. Celestine joined the Little Zion Baptist Church at a very early age. She spent most of her adult life being an active, dedicated member. During these many years, she worked diligently in numerous capacities until she was no longer capable due to failing health. After she was incapacitated, she remained concerned about the welfare of the children, choir practice or a church service, program, or activity for which she once shared some responsibility. Her involvement with Little Zion included the following: Member of senior choir for more than 50 years, pianist for many of those years; treasurer of Young Women's Club until it combined with the missionary; treasurer of missionary ministry for more than 40 years; and Sunday School instructor. There were very few programs/activities held that she was not in attendance. She always unselfishly provided services to the church and to her community without any desire for personal recognition. Yet, she has been honored on several occasions for her outstanding services. In May 2001, she was honored by the Women's Missionary and Education Convention for services faithfully rendered as treasurer for 53 years. Celestine has been recognized by the Little Zion Baptist Church for years of devoted service and by Rising Zion Baptist Church for 40 years of contri-buting to the music ministry. The Powhatan Branch of the NAACP recognized her for being a dependable, long- time member and for her dedication and devotion. She was the first secretary of that branch. Her extensive community involvement also included, but not limited to, working with the senior citizens, Retired Teachers Association, and the 4-H club. She had an unwavering sense of responsibility - very serious and committed. To cherish her memories ,she leaves her daughter, Barbara J. Mayo (Bernard); three grandchildren, Benita Mayo , J. B. Mayo, Dallas Mayo(Katrice); one great grandson, Joshua Ethan; sister-in-law, Bessie Simpson; brother -in-law, Alfred Johnson; and a host of devoted nieces & nephews, other relatives and friends.