Jeanette Hubert Whatley, exceptional wife, mother, educator and friend passed on September 26, 2004. She was born in Atlanta, Georgia on November 17, 1918 to Reverend Gaddus Johnson Hubert, Sr. and Pearl Parks Hubert, an Atlanta Public School principal. Jeanette was one of four children and the only daughter. She was preceded in death by brothers Dennis and Leon.

Jeanette received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Spelman College in 1937 and her Master of Arts degree from Atlanta University as a Ford Scholar in English and American Literature. She continued her studies at Columbia University (NY), the University of San Francisco and Georgia State University, and earned additional certifications and honors.

Jeanette was a talented and dedicated educator who taught at Fort Valley State College, but found her niche at Booker T. Washington High School in Atlanta. For over 20 years, she taught French, English and Literature. She later designed, implemented and coordinated the first public high school Humanities Magnet Program in the southern United States. Washington High School students, faculty and staff loved and respected her.

Jeanette was tireless in her efforts to expose students to literature, humanities, arts and language. She was a perfectionist and constantly challenged the intellects of her students. She inspired thousands to discover their God-given potential to learn, to understand and to communicate. For nearly 20 years, she orchestrated every Washington High School graduation and required each graduating class to develop a thought-provoking theme and to present it with compassion and persuasion. After teaching for 27 years and serving as Humanities Department Chairperson for 15 of those years, Jeanette retired in 1985.

Jeanette possessed a rare combination of keen intellect, common sense and humility. She always put everyone else's needs before her own, insisted on working behind the scenes and never sought recognition. Her wonderful disposition and love of people made her a valuable asset to many professional, civic and social organizations including the Twelve and One Club and Spelman Alumnae Association. She was a longtime member of Providence Missionary Baptist Church.


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