~~Jetha Pinkston Lawson was born on October 10, 1943 to the union of Willie Louis Pinkston (deceased) and Alberta Campbell Pinkston in Jackson, Mississippi and was the third born of five daughters. She was united in holy matrimony with Dr.Cassell A. Lawson on June 19, 1992 in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
After graduating from Jim Hill High School in Jackson, Mississippi, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English Literature from Tougaloo College, Tougaloo, Mississippi; a Master of Science Degree in Reading from Jackson State University, Jackson, Mississippi; and an Administration Specialist Degree from University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Prior to moving to Racine, Jetha taught Reading/English at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Mississippi. She held various positions within the Racine Unified School District: Reading Specialist, Sub-School Principal at J. I. Case High School, Assistant Principal at Gilmore Junior High School, Directing Principal at Starbuck Middle School, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services, Assistant Superintendent for Human Services and Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. Students and colleagues could always expect to be treated with her characteristic warmth, compassion and complete attention. Providing the best education for children was a top priority for her. Jetha retired in 2006.
Jetha was a member of professional organizations such as, Phi Delta Kappa, Delta Kappa Gamma, National Association of Black School Educators, American Association of School Administrators, and Wisconsin Association of School Personnel Administrators. Jetha continued her love for helping others through volunteering her time with Governor’s Commission on Families and Children, Board of Directors for Women’s Resource Center, Board of Directors for the YWCA, Board of Directors & Budget Committee for Racine Area United Way, Board of Directors for the Girl Scouts of America, Board of Directors for OIC, Board of Directors for National Middle School Association, Board of Directors for 21st Century Preparatory School, Homeless Improvement Committee, Association of Funding Organization’s Coordination Council, Racine Area Manufacturers Association Council Community Involvement Committee, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, Wingspread’s Youth Focus Groups, and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s Pre-College Advisory Council, Teacher Preparation Steering Committee and Improving Teacher Quality Program Committee.
Jetha was recently honored by Phi Delta Kappa with the “Distinguished Leadership in Education Award”. During her career she pledged to “start students from the point of their last support and bring them as far as their capabilities can take them.” Jetha never stopped believing what she states as her philosophy of education: “All children can learn, given the time, the opportunity, and a caring adult.” And Jetha has proven to be that caring adult throughout her career and during retirement.
Jetha departed this life on Monday, April 6, 2015 at the age of 71. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Lee Henry and Jeather Campbell and Major and Roberta Pinkston; her father, Willie Louis Pinkston; and sisters, Delores Pinkston Pritchett and Rev. Dr. Billye Pinkston Bridges.
Jetha leaves to cherish her memory her husband Cassell A. Lawson (Racine, WI), her mother Alberta Campbell Pinkston (Madison, Mississippi); her sisters, Lola Pinkston Richardson (Jackson, Mississippi), Kathryn Pinkston Worthy (Madison, Mississippi); Brother-in-Law Floyd Bridges; her nephews, Victor (Patricia) Richardson (Atlanta, Georgia), Richard Richardson, Jr. (Jackson, Mississippi), Kelvin (Carmen) Richardson (Memphis, Tennessee), Alando (La Shron) Cooley (Jackson, Mississippi), Christopher (Tamika) Cooley (Detroit, Michigan), R. Edward Worthy, II (Madison, Mississippi) and a host of other relatives, friends and neighbors.
A celebration of her life will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2015 at 4:00 pm at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 1123 Center St., Racine, WI. Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until the time of the service.
Ann Laing says
I am so sorry to hear of Jetha’s passing. I will keep her and her family in my prayers.
Cheryl Swiatko says
I will miss your laugh and hugs that you always gave me when visiting at my school. You were a one in a million administrator who always showed your caring side to all of us who were teaching. You will be deeply missed.
Sue Gorman says
Jetha was an exceptionally beautiful, gracious and kind lady. I am fortunate to have had her as my mentor, as my friend. You will be the classiest angel in heaven kind friend.
Kris Cohen says
I am very saddened to hear about Jetha’s passing. I was always so happy when she came to our school to be the substitute principal. She was a role model and a friend. Her wit, positive advice and great sense of style will always be remembered. Her legacy will live on always through the people she touched.
Becky Jones says
What a TRUE class act! She is missed already. RIP Jetha, carry on your work in Heaven, they need you.
Linda Heitzinger says
Jetha was a wonderful educator and a beautiful person. I feel blessed to have known her. My sympathies to her family.
Angela Ingram-Johnson says
Ms. Pinkston-Lawson, you have always been an inspiration to me. I will miss our talks and advice you would give me regarding the education of my daughters. The advice you shared I did take it to heart and applied at your direction.
My heart is heavy knowing we have lost a dedicated and sincere educator.
Anonymous says
Deborah Coca says
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of our dear sweet Jetha! Jetha was always there for her family, friends, and employees of the Racine Unified School District. I loved when she called me and said let’s go to lunch. Her laughter and true professionalism will always be remembered.! She was also was such a classy well dressed woman at all times. Rest in peace Jetha. There are so many of us who will deeply miss you.
Tracy Johnson says
You were a very important part of my life, the teenage years. Love you Ms. Pinkston. R.I.P.
Bryan Albrecht says
Our deepest sympathy to the family.
Bryan Albrecht & Gateway Technical College Board of Trustees
Cecilia Young says
Jetha was dynamic human being and shall be missed! My condolences to the family. God Bless!
Rev. Della J Buckley says
May God continue to give you and your family comfort during this time of bereavement.
Art Howell says
Ms. Pinkston – You were a positive influence on, and a blessing to many students throughout the district, myself included. Thank God for sending you our way. Now its time to claim your reward. Rest in peace in God’s care.
Sue Spicer says
My thoughts and prayers to the family. Jetha was always a ray of sunshine with her ready laugh and hearty hugs. It was my privilege to know her. She will be missed.
Kate Mooney says
My thoughts and prayers are with Jetha’s family at this time. I was always so excited when I would see that she was covering a principal’s absence at my school. She was warm, magnetic and uplifting, and I felt that every time I bumped into her, it instantly made my day better. Every school district should be so lucky to have its own “Jetha.” She has left her mark on so many. Rest in heavenly peace.
Lisa Bennett says
She will be missed. She touched so many of our lives. Praying for her family.
shanda coleman-smith says
Condolences to her family… Wonderful teacher & inspirational woman….
Loved her
Shanda Coleman-Smith
shanda coleman-smith says
Condolences to her family… Wonderful teacher & inspirational woman….
Loved her
Shanda Coleman-Smith
Sandra Helmin-Clazmer says
My sympathies go to Jetha’s family. Jetha was such a kind, energetic person. She will be missed.
The Moore Family says
Our deepest sympathes to the Pinkston-Lawson family.
Cecily Keys-Kelly says
The part Jetha (Ms. Pinkston) played in my life will never be forgotten. My heart is heavy may God bless the family.
Sally Hudec says
Jetha,you taught me so much through the years.I will miss your smile and laughter.
Jennifer Lee says
I am so sad to hear about Jetha. She helped get my start teaching in Racine. Such a positive person. Love and prayers to her family.
Wanda Minued says
When Jetha entered a room, auditorium or gym full of educators, attention was automatically drawn to her. It was so easy to love her, because she knew how to make every one of us feel special. She always had something pleasant and encouraging to say. Most importantly, she never forgot us.
Kim Gloede says
Jetha will be deeply missed. She was always so enthusiastic every time she came to my classroom. She never stopped loving the kids. Love and peace to her family.
rose Ann says
Jetha was the most sweet professional administrator I have ever meet. She will be missed and ever forgotten
Irma O'Hara says
To the Family of Jetha:
I extend my sincere sympathies to you in the loss of your dear Jetha. She was dear to so many including myself. Professionally, she was a master collague. As a friend she was a genuinely kind and loving confidant. We shared many fun and meaningful times at Alcorn College. Although we lost contact through the years and across the miles, I never forgot the positive influence she made on my life. May all of you be comforted in knowing that many others are with you in spirit and lifting you in prayer.
Jenny borke says
Sorry for your loss!! She always had a smile on her face!
Ann Pissard says
Today and always, I will honor Jetha in remembering her with the outmost respect and love. Her kindness and caring soul always made one feel important. She was genuine in her position in wanting the best possible education for all students. It was an honor working with her.
God Bless.
Joe Ann Green - Martin says
I’ve known Mrs. Jetha for about 10 years, her and her husband. She was the sweetest person you every want to meet. We took to each other like sisters, we laugh and talk about every thing. About 2 weeks before her passing, we went to Burger King and she ordered her favorite, Jr. Whooper, Strawberry Shake and a Apple Pie. She will truly be missed.
Our prayers goes out to Mr. Castle and her Family. God bless.
Shelli Tippett says
I’m so sorry to hear of Jetha’s passing. She was a truly positive and beautiful person. I always enjoyed her classroom visits and her wonderful smile. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Shelli Tippett says
I’m so sorry to hear of Jetha’s passing. She was a truly positive and beautiful person. I always enjoyed her classroom visits and her wonderful smile. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Dave & Cindy Brown says
We are so sorry to hear of Jetha’s passing. She was such a force in the growth of education and a wonderful friend. She will truly be missed. Prayers to the family.
SCOTTY MARTIN says
I am going to miss you Mrs Jetha. Love You
Fran DeRosier says
Jetha will truely be missed in our community. Jetha always made her rounds making all of the students and staff feel special. I will never forget her morning announcements, “Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours.”
Tom Tuttle says
We as a community were honored to have known and learned from Jetha. Her impact is one that will last for generations, not years. Racine mourns the loss of one of its greatest assets and friends. Prayers to her family.
Kathy ginther says
She will missed.
Julie McKenna says
Jetha was a great principle and administrator. Racine Unified was blessed to have her service. She was good with the students. I admired her passion and desire to have things work out and her love for Starbuck middle school! I will miss her! God sped Jetha!
Julie McKenna says
Jetha was a great principle and administrator. Racine Unified was blessed to have her service. She was good with the students. I admired her passion and desire to have things work out and her love for Starbuck middle school! I will miss her! God sped Jetha!
Patricia Richardson says
Aunt Jetha u are going to be miss. I’m glad we had time to talk laugh and cry together. My heart is heavy but our memories will live on forever. Your neice and nephew, Patricia,Victor & family
Rajeeyah McWhorter says
Racine/Kenosha will definitely miss this pioneer of education! Being a young African American Female I didn’t have many teachers that looked like me but when I saw this tall,smart,beautiful, and impeccably dressed Principal walking the halls of my school I couldn’t help but notice and smile and stand a little taller ….you and your presence will be missed but not forgotten!
Eileen& Bob Teska says
A truly amazing person gone way too soon. So glad to have had you shine into our lives.
Mary Waller says
I was so very sad to hear of Jetha’s passing. She was such a remarkable and memorable person. She embraced everyone she met and touched them with her kindness.
Gail Boykin-Dansby says
Rest in peace Ms Pinkston.
Mary Waller says
I was so very sad to hear of Jetha�۪s passing. She was such a remarkable and memorable person. She literally embraced everyone she met and touched them with her kindness.
Jill Vander Brug says
So so sorry to hear of Jetha’s passing. She was one in a million! I am so glad we crossed paths. I will miss her smile, her positive attitude, and hugs. She made such an impact on the Unified School District. As I once told her, “Some people come into our lives and quietly go, others stay for while and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same. Amen!
Cindy Weiss says
Jetha was always kind and good! She was also a hoot and a half! I admired the way she showed her love to people, how she cared for teachers and students, and that she allowed me to find my home at West Ridge! She will be greatly missed, but was one of the brightest spots of RUSD and this Earth!
The Cornelius Family of Jackson, MS says
Amy Collins says
A little bit if sunshine will be missing in the days to come. I always enjoyed Jetha’s sunny smile, warm hugs, encouraging insights, and kind words, when visiting our school. She will be truly missed.
Brenda Stockton says
My deepest sympathies, Dr. Lawson. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. Godspeed!
Karla R. Hollingsworth says
It is with great sadness, as I offer my condolences to the family of Jetha. I will cherish fond memories of her. She gave me a position with Racince Unified Schools as a provisional special education instructor, and encouraged me to become involved with the school board. I hold her accomplishments as an educator and pro-active community servant in the highest esteem. She always reached back and pulled people forward with inspirational encouragement. God bless her for blessing my life and living an example of leadership. I know you rest in peace!
Joan Jansen says
Jetha was the most vibrant, happy, loving person I know. Her smile always brought sunshine to my day. She’s like no one else and she will be deeply missed.
Olympia Banks says
Mrs Pinkston..A Phenomenal woman truly a woman of Excellence,you were such an asset to the Racine Unified School District there surely will never be another..you will forever be loved and missed.
Marty Eggener says
If it were not for Jetha, I would never have had the opportunity to work in Educational Administration. She was kind, loving and a dynamic person. Thank you Jetha.
Wendy Fleury says
I will never forget how at ease Jetha made me feel both the first and second time she interviewed and hired me for RUSD. She had a way of making you feel special. She will be deeply missed.
Jennifer Garibay says
My condolences to the entire family. I am so sorry for her passing. I first met Jetha when I worked at the Boston Store while I was teaching. I helped her pick out her beautiful hats that she used to wear. I also helped her with her sunglasses. It was always so much fun to wait on her and sell her things. I loved her sense of style and dress. Her smile always brightened up any room.
sandra lepisto says
Jetha was such a ray of sunshine. She will be missed by all she knew. She was such a great “people-person”. Our hearts are sad with you. Love and prayers, Sandy & Gene Lepisto
Doris Durr Ross says
To God be the glory for her life and legacy.
Doris Durr Ross ’75
Tougaloo College
Dorothy Gray and family says
Our prayers are with you and your family.
The Cornelius Family of Jackson, MS says
Our sincere prayers are with you and your family.
Carolyn Musurlian says
I loved working with Jetha she was a wonderful lady. She will be missed.
Maury and Sheila Blada says
Jetha and Maury were colleagues at Case HS in Racine, WI. She was a true friend and will be long remembered. Sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family.
Sheila and Maury
Phyllis Carter says
Sending my condolences, always telling me how I can do something with my life, always very positive even when I got kicked out of class giving my a positive lecture than tell me to go to class n learn u will be missed
Marilyn Pearson says
You were BLESS by the best to have a place in so many people lives you let me know when i was right and when i was wrong i was thankful to have you in my life at J.I. case high school your work is done on this side now take your rest you are an Angel now.
Mark and Janet Shimkus says
Our Deepest Sympathies, Mark and Janet Shimkus.
Clara Grays says
Jetha was a super woman that added life to any room…she loved color and fashion. During my history at RUSD I. was inspired by her knowledge and relationships with staff. May her soul rest in peace.
Ellie Boldus says
Although I did not know Jetha well, I was always impressed with her genuine care and respect for others, both adults and children. She led by example. My sympathies to her family.
Belinda Mullins says
RIP Ms.Pinkston