Selena Thomas Jennings

Selena Yevone Thomas Jennings of Silver Spring, Maryland, known to all who loved her simply as “Mickey”, peacefully answered her call to glory on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the beautiful age of 80.

Born on April 10, 1945, in Southeast Washington, DC, Mickey was the youngest of seven children born to Gilbert and Flossie Thomas. From the very beginning, she carried a spark. She was bright, creative, and full of heart. She attended DC Public Schools and proudly graduated from Dunbar High School. Soon after, she found joy working at a floral shop.

In June of 1964, Mickey married the love of her life, James W. Jennings, Sr. Their union was a true partnership—full of laughter, devotion, and unwavering love. Together, they raised five children. Their home in Silver Spring became the heart of the family for more than four decades. Mickey and James shared 28 years of marriage before his passing in 1992, and she carried his love with her for the rest of her days.

Mickey’s greatest calling was motherhood. She didn’t just raise her own children, she mothered everyone. Her home was a haven, a safe place filled with warmth, food, and unconditional love. Over the years, more than twenty children found comfort, guidance, and family under her roof. And if you were one of “her babies,” chances are you still treasure a crochet blanket she made with her own hands. Each stitch, a quiet expression of her love.

She adored her television shows and made them part of her daily rhythm. Whether she was watching Judge Judy, The Young and the Restless, General Hospital, exploring new dishes on the Food Network, or laughing at reality TV, Mickey used her shows as a way to stay connected. She was always ready to chat about the latest episode with family and friends.

Traveling with her loved ones brought her endless joy. Every year, she made her cherished trip to Virginia Beach, soaking in the sun, savoring seafood, and delighting in the simple pleasure of being surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She also loved her road trips to Florida and Texas. Hours of stories, laughter, and memories that her family will hold close forever.

In her later years, Mickey found community and companionship at the Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center in Silver Spring. There, she made new friends by playing cards,exercising and of course, crocheting.

Mickey loved the Lord deeply and sincerely. He was the center of her JOY! She worshiped at Zion Baptist Church in DC and later at Mount Jezreel Baptist Church in Silver Spring. Even as her health declined, she remained connected to ministry from home, holding tightly to her faith.

In 2024, her health began to shift, and she entered Montgomery County Hospice care, lovingly supported each day by her devoted son Brandon.

Now, Mickey is reunited in heaven with her beloved husband James Sr. and her eldest son James Jr; her parents Gilbert and Flossie; and siblings Edith, Donald, John, Harold, Babara, and Eugene. What a joyful reunion that must be.

She leaves behind a legacy of love. Cherishing her memory are her children: Deborah Cudjoe (Beresford), Anthony (Kimberly), Brandon (Katina), and Christopher (Marsha); her grandchildren: Vivian, James III, Damian, Darian, Brionee, Kamari, Khyara, and Christianna; her sisters‑in‑law Josephine, Jeanette, Ann, and Katherine; and a large, loving circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and lifelong friends.

Mickey’s life was a tapestry of love, woven with kindness, stitched with faith, and wrapped around everyone she touched. Her spirit lives on in every story told, every memory shared, and every heart she helped shape.