Maedean Jones Backstrom was born on July 25, 1934 in Kilgore, Texas to James Maceo Jones and Naomi Staley Jones. She was the third of four children. Maedean accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior at an early age and was baptized. She joined Harbor Christian Center in 1989 and remained strong in her faith throughout her lifetime.

Woman Scholar Child of God

Maedean attended Grape Street Elementary School and David Starr Jordan High School. She was recognized for her perfect attendance in Girls’ League and her personal accomplishment and outstanding ability in Senior Ladies Service Organization.

After graduating David Starr Jordan High School in 1952, Maedean attended Los Angeles City College earning her Associate of Arts degree in 1955. Maedean continued her education and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from California State University, Los Angeles in 1965, and a Master of Science in Education from California Lutheran College in 1977. She was also a member in good standing of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and a devout and dedicated member of Harbor Christian Center.

Life Love Career

While attending college, Maedean met and fell in love with the handsome and charismatic James Backstrom. They wed in 1959 and were married for 63 years. God blessed their union with a wonderful son, Keenan, who was a constant source of pride and joy to them both.

Maedean’s career as an educator began at Garfield High School where she worked as a teacher and counselor. She was recognized throughout her career for her outstanding leadership and service to the students of Garfield High School.

Maedean retired from Garfield after a long and distinguished career spanning 21 years.

Upon retiring, Maedean started her second career as a caregiver. First, for her mother, Naomi, and then her grandchildren, Kameron and Alana, and eventually her beloved husband, James. She was a very devoted, caring mother, wife, grandmother, sister and unwavering in her faith.

Maedean is preceded in death by her mother and father, and siblings: Maceo, Alden and Naomi.

Maedean leaves to cherish her memory: son Keenan (Nancy), grandchildren Kameron (Orly) and Alana, sister-in-law Yvonne, niece Crystal, nephew Kevin (Pam), great-niece Emerald, great-nephew Christian; as well as many devoted long-time friends.