Jessica Lankford
Jessica Diane Lankford
03 Apr 1946 - 12 Jun 2014
Clubs & Associations
Obituary
Jessica Lankford died on June 12, 2014 surrounded by loved ones. She was born April 3, 1946 as Jimmy Doil Lankford in Lubbock Texas, the second of nine children. She graduated from high school in Houston. Her first year at college was Texas Bible College, a United Pentecostal college. Though a conscientious objector, Jessica served in the Army from 1965-1968, and spent one year in Vietnam as a Surgical Scrub Tech. On her return, she worked for Methodist Hospital for five years, attended Commercial Business College, and finished her career in accounting. She moved from Houston to Portland in April 1979 to make a change in her life, which was one of the best things she did for herself. That move began the exploration of her true essence and gender identity of who she really was. Because of her painful experience at Bible College, she did not attend church until she was in her late 40s. The banner outside Ainsworth and her friendship with Lisa Benson led her to Ainsworth United Church of Christ, as she was searching for a church that was inclusive to everyone. She joined Ainsworth in 2001, where she served on the Nurture Commission and the Nominating Committee, served as Church Treasurer, Cashier, and Usher and Greeter. Jessica coordinated fellowship hour and hosted many of them. Jessica was a vegetarian and she enjoyed gardening. She volunteered for several organizations including the Community of Welcoming Congregations. But she was an integral part of the community at Our House of Portland for more than 21 years. Jessica worked as a bookkeeper for businesses and some organizations including VOZ (Center for Day Workers) and St. Francis Catholic Church. Jessica is survived by sisters Donna Mays, Linda Parrott, Janie Lankford, Sherry Wilson, LaJuana Lankford, and brothers Jamie Lankford, Jackie Lankford, and predeceased by brother Connie Lankford and niece Ashley Wilson. She is survived by 15 nieces and nephews and at least 25 grand nieces and nephews. She is also survived by dear friend Diane Keeler and her goddaughter, Salome Bunyoli, sister of Malcolm, and daughter of Arika and Geoffrey. A Celebration of Life Service will be held this Saturday at 11:00am at Ainsworth United Church of Christ, 2941 NE Ainsworth Street, Portland, reception to follow. All are welcome. There will also be a party in memory of Jessica at 2:00pm at Starky's, 2913 SE Stark St., Portland.
Service
- served on the IAGSDC Executive Committee as Treasurer, 1987-1988
Memorial Panel
- 3UL | Rosetown Ramblers
Photos
Obituary photo
At Star Thru The Golden Gate, 1986
