Mother Shirlean Jennings was born March 23rd, 1943 to the union of Ed Blackwell and Willard (nee: Jeans) Blackwell in Blue Mountain, Mississippi. In her early teenage years the family later relocated to Racine, Wisconsin.

Mother Shirlean Jennings received her formal education from Washington Park High School in Racine, Wisconsin. She continued her education at the American Beauty College where she received her manager and cosmetologist license.  At a young age she accepted Christ as her Savior and was united with Grace Temple Church of God In Christ located on 12th street in Racine, Wisconsin. Her strong desire to serve God and His people allowed her to serve on several different boards in various capacities in the church.

Mother Shirlean Jennings was united in marriage to Deacon Leslie W. Jennings, Jr. and to that union two children were born, Bryan K. Jennings Sr. and Tamera L. Jennings-Stanley. Her desire to care for all extended well beyond her small family and the family soon expanded to include Kennetra L. Powell and Keandra M. Powell.  She opened their home, their lives, and shared their love with many including Margery and Percy Coulson-Clark of  Blue Fields, Nicaragua).  She was an employee of Chrysler Corporation as a Facilities Maintenance Technician where she retired after more than 15 years service.

Mother Shirlean Jennings departed from her labor to get her eternal reward on Tuesday, October 21, 2014 at 12:40 pm at St. Luke's Medical Center in Milwaukee, WI.  She was preceded in death by her parents; Ed and Willard Blackwell, twin brothers Joy and Toy Blackwell, and sister Jamie Harmon.

Her legacy will continue to live through her loving and devoted husband; Deacon Leslie W. Jennings Jr., son; Bryan (Tracy) Jennings, daughters; Tamera (Leotha) Stanley, Kenntra Powell and Keandra Powell, sister; Shirley (George) Holman, brother; Jimmie (Susan) Blackwell, goddaughter; Marsha Conner, her grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of very dear relatives and friends.

Family and friends are invited to celerate her homegoing on Tuesday, October 28, 2014 at 11:00am in Greater Grace Temple C.O.G.I.C., 522 N. Memorial Dr., Elder Jettie Cornett, Pastor.  Visitation will be in the church on Monday, October 27th from 4-7pm and again on Tuesday from 9am until the time of service.