Maggie Lee Meynard Jakes

Mrs. Maggie Lee Meynard Jakes was born on December 1, 1941, in Colleton County, South Carolina, the beloved daughter of the late Maryann Stokes Meynard and Charlie Meynard. She peacefully passed away on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

She received her early education at Smoaks Elementary School. At the age of sixteen, Maggie relocated with her sister to Patterson, New Jersey, beginning a new chapter of life. She later moved to Brooklyn, New York, where she was united in Holy Matrimony to the late Joe Lewis Jakes.

In later years, Maggie returned home to Smoaks, South Carolina. She first joined Bethel United Methodist Church, Smoaks, South Carolina and later became a devoted member of Lovely Hill Baptist Church, Smoaks, South Carolina where her faith continued to flourish.

Maggie found joy in singing with the Southern Six, dressing with style, and lovingly caring for our brother Whitfield. Their bond was unbreakable— “Mom did not play about Whitfield”—and the two shared a deep, enduring love.

She was cherished by all who knew her, and her warm spirit, strength, and kindness will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her grandchild, Kareem Jakes, and her siblings: Charlie Meynard, Annie Mae Risher, Jersey Mae Elliot, Daniel Meynard, and Deloris Meynard.

Maggie leaves to celebrate her life and cherish her memory, nine children: Vonetta Stephens (Edward), Jonathan Jakes of New York, Jeannette Jakes, Joseph Jakes (Linda) of New York, Margie Murray (Grady), Anthony Jakes (Nichelle), WhitfieldJakes, Vera Jakes, and John Jakes; one brother, Robert Lee Franklin Meynard of New York; two sisters, Olinthia Meynard of New York and Sharon Hallman of Smoaks; Twenty-two grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren; one aunt, Mrs. Redell Fields and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends; a devoted special friend, Earlene Risher, and a special nephew and niece, Daniel Meynard Jr. and Josey Simmons. Her legacy of love, resilience, and family devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

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