Jessie Bell Hill's Obituary
Jessie Bell Kineard Hill, 97, of Chattanooga, passed away Monday, August 25, 2025, at her residence. She was a proud graduate of Howard High School where she earned the honor of Salutatorian of the Class of 1946. She continued on to Zion College where she majored in Business. She was employed by Dupont and retired after many years of service.
Jessie was a long-term member of New Monumental Baptist Church and remained involved until her health prevented further participation. She faithfully served the church in various roles. She was an active member of the Evergreen Club, a member of the Usher Board, and a gracious hostess for countless special occasions. A significant distinction was conferred upon her when she was entrusted with the responsibility of furnishing and decorating a church room in honor of her late mother, who had also served the congregation with dedication.
Jessie was preceded in death by her parents, Lum W. and Jessie Lee Johnson Kineard; and grandmother, Rossie Davis.
Survivors include her daughter, Lennis (Oliver) Tarvin of Chattanooga; granddaughters, Yolanda D. Winston, Valencia D. Winston, Kennedy U. Ainsworth, Shelbry J. Tarvin, and Nikoel J. Smith; grandson, Oliver Tarvin, Jr.: great-grandchildren, Marcus D. Talley, Valencia B. Reynolds, Jontae A. Jemison, JaNay L. Stafford, Calvin W. Stafford Jr, Jalen D. Tarvin, Jordan A. Seitz, JaKyilah N. Knight, and JaNiyah B. Taylor; her devoted cousin, Kathleen M. Custard; along with a host of other loving family members and friends.
Jessie will lie-in-state on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Graveside service will follow at 1 p.m. in Forest Hills Cemetery with Pastor Alonzo Noble giving words of comfort.
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