Genevieve Hazel Jones Depriest
MEMPHIS - Genevieve Hazel Jones Depriest was born to Frank and Genevieve Jones on July 18, 1941 in Memphis, Tennessee. She died peacefully on Saturday, March 13, 2021, at St. Francis Hospital. Genevieve Depriest was the embodiment of a person who truly made a difference in countless lives through her beneficence, education profession, and the Greater Memphis community.
Genevieve Depriest graduated from Booker T. Washington High School and earned a B.S. in Psychology and Education at Tennessee State University. She earned a M.A. + 45 post graduate hours at the University of Memphis. Genevieve began a career in education with Memphis City Schools as a teacher in 1968. Her service with legacy MCS extends over three decades, beginning as a special education teacher. During Depriest’s years as an educator, she served as a teacher, instructional supervisor, director, and adjunct college professor. Throughout her career she dedicated her talents and her energies to ensuring a quality education for students with disabilities.
During her tenure as the Director of Exceptional Children, Depriest’s framework for leadership undoubtedly had positive outcomes for children with disabilities. She was instrumental in orchestrating changes in the division, clearly reflected in the change of the division’s title. Highlights of her accomplishments during service include establishing the first preschool class for intellectually gifted children, establishing the first day treatment program for students with severe behavior disorders, creating the first system-wide screening team for identifying intellectually gifted children, initiating Infohandler Computerized IEP program, and collaborating as a Founding member of the West TN. Special Education Conference.
Genevieve Depriest retired in 2001 after 33 years of service. She was an inspiration to all who knew her. Her legacy will be remembered by her niece, Shera Jones-cantrell (Bryant) and great niece and great nephew, twins, Peighton and Bryson Cantrell; one sister, Clara Allen; one brother Richard Jones (Jacqueline); a “special” nephew, Kevin Brooks (Karen); and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and life-long friends.
Visitation for Genevieve H. Depriest will be held on Friday, March 26th, 4-7pm at M.J. Edwards Whitehaven Funeral Chapel, 5494 Elvis Presley Blvd.
Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, March 27th, 12:00pm. New Park Cemetery - 4536 Horn Lake Rd.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to St. Matthew Missionary Baptist, 2016 Pendleton Street, Memphis, TN., or, Church Health, 1350 Concourse Avenue, Memphis, TN.