MS SC633

Mourns the loss of Lavaree "Johnetta" Jones, the first African-American female Realtor and Appraiser in Mississippi, who began her real estate career in 1973 and practiced for over 30 years.

Recognizes her professional contributions including appraising work on major Jackson development projects, serving as an expert witness in the Nissan eminent domain case, and holding leadership positions in real estate organizations including President of the Mississippi Association of Real Estate Brokers.

Commends her civic activism as a charter member and Vice President of Women for Progress, advocate in the Civil Rights Movement, and champion for community improvement, homeownership, and equal treatment.

Acknowledges her political engagement including campaigns for Jackson City Council in 1989 and 1997, service on the Hinds County Democratic Executive Committee, and attendance as a delegate at the 2008 Democratic National Convention supporting Barack Obama.

Extends the Legislature's sympathy to her surviving family members, including her two children, five grandchildren, and siblings.