Mother Jessie B. States was born on December 12, 1929 in Alexandria, Louisiana, to Harvey and Bertha Cotton. At an early age she gave her life to Christ and united with the Antioch Baptist Church.

After relocating to Tacoma, WA she became an active member of St. John Missionary Baptist Church. Mother States served as the First Lady of Mt. Tabor Baptist church for nearly 30 years. She also worked and retired from the Tacoma Housing Authority .

She is preceded in death by her husband Rev. Dan W. States, and son Charles S. Mitchell, Jr. She leaves to mourn her death 5 children Barbara, Eugene, Flora, Joann and Johnny. Viewing services Friday April 12th 11am-7pm at Scott Funeral Home. Funeral services Saturday, April 13 ^th at 11am at Shiloh Baptist Church.