Jessie Mae Ravenell was born in the Eutawville Community of Orangeburg County, South Carolina on May 5, 1918. She was the eldest child of Frank and Louise Guess Williams. She quietly departed this life on Thursday, December 22, 2011, at her home following an extended illness.

She was educated in the public schools of Dorchester County.

Jessie Mae was a faithful and dedicated member of Bethel AME Church in St. George, SC until her health failed. She was a member of the Trustee Board, Senior Usher Board and Stewardess Board No. 3. In addition, she sang on the Senior Choir and worked as part of the Eveready Club.

In December of 1938, she married Malcolm Ravenell who passed away in 1990 after over 50 years of marriage. They had one son, Robert S. Ravenell and one daughter, Shirley B. Evans Small who preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death were her three brothers, Louise, Jr., Leon and Johnny Williams as well as her grandson, Samuel E. Ravenell.

She leaves to cherish her memories, one devoted son, Robert S. Ravenell of St. George, SC; a loving and devoted daughter-in-law, Mamie Ravenell of St. George, SC; four grandchildren, Freddie Mae (Stephen) Mason, Robert Ravenell, Jr., Veronica (Kelvin) Hardy and Gennetta Ravenell; seven great grandchildren; one aunt, Sarah Guess of Bowman, SC and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.