Evangelist Jerline McDuffie-Lockett

“…Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” Hebrews 11:1 KJV

Evangelist Jerline Fayne Mcduffie-Lockett was born in Osceola, Arkansas on June 11, 1936, to the late Rosie Fayne-Beamon and John Fayne. 

Evg. Jerline was united in Holy Matrimony to Rev. William Lockett on June 13, 2009, in Chicago, Illinois who preceded her in death. She and her first husband King David McDuffie, Sr were married in 1958 where he preceded her in death in 1999. They were blessed with ten children (8 boys and 2 girls).

Evg. Jerline was a woman of God that loved everybody she would not let anything stand in her way and her model was to keep moving forward, to not look back, and to make the best out of life. She always believed that without faith, things are impossible. Conversely, by always having faith, she believed everything would fall into place as a true woman of God.

Evg. Jerline was a hardworking woman, who devoted her life to helping others. She was very active in the community and fought for the rights of others. She Marched with Rev Jesse Jackson (Operation Push/Operation Breadbasket) in the 1960s and 1970s, fighting for equality, economic opportunities in black communities, housing, jobs and the rights for others and black-owned businesses. She also fought for Welfare Rights.

Operation Breadbasket was modeled after selective patronage program developed by Leon Sullivan in Philadelphia. Breadbasket used the persuasive power of black ministers and the organizing strength of the churches to create economic opportunities and help industries selling their products in black communities.

Evg. Jerline started Mcduffie Outreach Ministries, where she ran a daily food pantry out of her basement. She could not bear to see others homeless or those who did not have a place to stay, so she took them in, especially during the time of our dangerously cold, inclement Chicago weather. She started to hand out food to feed the homeless as well as clothing to wear. Her Ministry attracts hundreds--Lines to the end of the block. She also helps others to set up their own food pantry and work with churches to do the same. She kept Church Service in the basement as well. She went to visit the sick in the hospital and pray for them.

Evg. Jerline was a sweet soul with a kind heart. She was always very family oriented, and very protective over her loved ones. She would give you the clothing off her back, along with a loving lecture. She will always be remembered for her generous and caring spirit. She always carried a beautiful smile, even during the time of her illness and pain. Although her steps were slow and her breathing became difficult, she always carries that radiant smile. She worked diligently in the church where she was ordained and acquired her evangelical robe. She dedicated her life to Christ at a very early age and continue to lead and encouraged others to do the same.

Evg. Jerline was featured in the Chicago Tribune Newspaper coming to the aid of an elderly 101-year-old lady whose food pantry was robbed. She helped the lady to restore and replenish her lost.

Evg. Jerline always looked forward to celebrating her Birthday annually. Two/three months before her birthday, she started to call the family reminding them of her upcoming party. Her home on Wentworth Avenue, where her children was raised, was nicely decorated (…by one of her sons Solomon), where she would greet you with one of the biggest smiles.

Rest in Heaven Evangelist Jerline McDuffie-Locket, your work on earth is done and we thank you for all that you have done. You’re the last of your siblings. You lived 85 years on earth. Fond memories will forever linger in the hearts and minds of your remaining 8-children, grand-children, great-grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews, In-laws, numerous Family members and Friends. 

We love you and will miss you Mama Jerline!!! 

By the way, say hi to Dad, and our siblings--Alphonso and Jackie for us. Tell them we love and miss them!

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