Mary Crump: A Healer at the Heart of Her Community

Photo Credit: Imani Khayyam

For the retired nurse and Jackson Association of Neighborhoods board member representing Ward 2, community involvement is a responsibility shaped by her upbringing, education and decades of service. Whether managing a research clinic or encouraging residents to attend meetings, Mary Crump believes progress requires participation.

“In order to make anything better, you’ve got to get in and do your part,” she said.

Originally from Raymond, Crump credits Mississippi Valley State University as her foundation. She continued her studies, earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing at the University of Mississippi and a master’s degree at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Her accomplishments came with obstacles. Crump recalled walking a mile to catch a bus, then riding 24 miles to attend high school, despite living about a mile from another high school. Later, at Southern Miss, she encountered a professor who told her she would not be there if the decision were his.

Crump persisted. She said she completed her master’s degree within a year while working full time and raising three children.

That determination carried into her nursing career. In her final full-time position, she managed the Jackson Heart Study clinic, supporting research into possible causes of cardiovascular disease among African Americans. After retirement, she returned as a consultant and provided consulting services for the University of Houston.

Her commitment to service extended beyond her profession.

Crump and her husband have lived in Ashley Acres for about 40 years. She estimates she has served as secretary of its homeowners association for 25 to 30 years; her husband serves as president. She describes a close-knit neighborhood where residents work together to maintain their properties and address concerns.

Joining JAN’s board required persuasion. Crump was busy and resisted taking on another responsibility. Requests from her council representative and others convinced her to lend her voice to Ward 2. 

She encourages neighbors to vote, attend meetings and learn who represents them.

Crump understands that sustaining neighborhood leadership means making room for younger residents. Her advice begins with asking what they want and how they would improve their community, then listening. Sharing history matters, she said, but so does respecting ideas that differ from those of previous generations.

“Get involved. Be aware of what’s taking place in your community,” she said.

For decades, Crump has answered that call herself. The nurse who cared for people has continued caring for the place they call home, giving her time and lending her voice long after retirement. Her service asks something of the rest of Jackson. She’s asking each of us to show up, to listen, to help carry the work forward and to keep caring for one another.

Interested in strengthening your neighborhood?

Interested in strengthening your neighborhood? Join the Jackson Association of Neighborhoods and become part of a citywide network of residents, neighborhood associations, businesses and community partners working together to build stronger communities. JAN members receive access to leadership training, resources and toolkits, funding opportunities, networking, collaborative programs and other programs.