Jessie M. Chaney
Jessie M. Chaney, age 91, passed away on Friday, May 24, 2013 surrounded by family and friends. Well known civil rights activist in the Milwaukee community for over 70 years as an executive committee member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Jessie worked tirelessly for the NAACP supporting such initiatives as the insurance red-lining lawsuit that was of national importance. As a result of the discrimination lawsuit, $50,000.00 was awarded to the Milwaukee Branch NAACP in support of the educational scholarship program for youth. Jessie volunteered numerous hours promoting NAACP membership as well as promoting the annual Freedom Fund Dinner. Jessie also took youth involved with the NAACP to enrichment activities such as horseback riding and bowling. An avid bowler, Jessie was a member of bowling leagues in the Milwaukee area for over 60 consecutive years. Jessie retired after 36 years of service from Allis Chalmers.
For Jessie, working hard, family, and traveling was what life was all about. Her optimism, friendliness and graciousness, will be missed. A perfectionist, she took great care in preparing holiday meals and always invited seniors in the community who had no where else to go.
Jessie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years, Felmers O. Chaney, mother, Artha L. Martin; Jessie James Jones, father and Ruby Skinner, sister. She leaves to cherish her memory: Debra L. Skinner, niece; Dr. Sharon F. Skinner, niece and a host of loving relatives and friends.
Visitation services for Jessie Chaney will be held Friday, May 31, 2013 at Williamson Funeral Home, 2157 N. 12th Street, Milwaukee, WI from 4:00pm- 7:00pm. Funeral will be held Saturday, June 1, 2013 at St. Matthews CME Church, 2944 N. 9th Street, Milwaukee, WI with final viewing from 9:00am to 10:00am; funeral services start at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the NAACP Milwaukee Branch, 2745 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Dr. Milwaukee, WI 53212.