Ida Wess Green

On February 18, 1933, in the warmth of her family home in Yulee, Florida, Ida Wess Green (née Jacobs) was born. The fourth child of Ophelia Jacobs and Charlie Jacobs Sr., both of whom preceded her in death, Ida’s life began in the embrace of family, and she spent her 92 years pouring that same embrace into others.

At just nine years old, Ida was already stepping onto a soda crate in her mother’s kitchen, learning to cook and care for her siblings. It was there that she discovered her calling: to love, serve, and nourish those around her. That spirit of devotion defined her life.

Ida graduated from Peck High School in Fernandina Beach, Florida, where she excelled as an athlete and was celebrated as the county’s MVP point guard. Though she shined on the basketball court, her truest victories were won in her home, her church, and her community.

On August 1, 1953, Ida married the love of her life, Leo Green Sr., and together they shared an extraordinary 71 years of marriage before his passing. Their union was blessed with three children: Gwendolyn McIntyre, Kathy Benjamin (who preceded her in death, and is survived by her husband, Robert Benjamin), and Leo Green Jr. (Neko). Her legacy extended through her grandchildren—Ida Patreace Heard (Reginald), Avery McIntyre, Wesley McIntyre, Demond Jefferson, Jeremy McIntyre (Tara), Ollie McIntyre Jr., Amanda Jefferson, and Nia Green—and her great-grandchildren: Damiyah Jefferson, Marley McIntyre, Symphony McIntyre, Harmoni McIntrye, Kamden Heard, Karter Heard, Tristan White, and Lyric Jefferson.

She was preceded in death by her siblings Margaret, Erlene, James Jr., Barbara, Lonnie, Leonard, Adolphus, and Johnny Jacobs, and is survived by her beloved sister, Maxine Robinson. Maxine was more than a sister; she was Ida’s inseparable best friend, her lifelong confidant, and her joy. Ida is also survived by her siblings Sandra Jacobs-Taylor (Leonard Sr.) and Lettie Jacobs-McClain (Kenneth Sr.), who were part of the wider family circle that enriched her life with love.

Ida’s circle of love extended to her sisters-in-law as well. She shared a cherished bond with her husband’s sisters, Maggie Wingard and Corene Rainey. She also embraced as family Carolyn Jacobs, the widow of her brother Leonard, and Annie Pearl Green, the widow of her husband’s brother. These women, along with Ida, upheld the bonds of family with strength, compassion, and enduring love.

In the early 1970s, Ida gave her life to God, a decision that shaped her walk for the rest of her days. She became a devoted servant of the Solid Rock Church of God by Faith, faithfully singing in the choir, ushering, teaching Sunday School, and pouring her energy into every role asked of her. Her dedication extended beyond her local church—she also served faithfully on the district level of the Church of God by Faith, offering her time, talent, and spirit to the wider body of believers. She was known not only for her kindness and love for people but also for her steadfast faith and willingness to serve.

Her kitchen was her ministry. Every Sunday, Ida prepared a soul food feast that filled not only her family’s bellies but also the hearts of neighbors, friends, and fellow church members. No matter how many sat at her table, there was always enough—and more. She was the matriarch who insisted that family came first, and she made family dinner around the table a sacred tradition.

Ida found joy in life’s simplest tasks—writing poems, cooking, and even washing clothes, which she fondly considered her favorite pastime. In her later years, her home remained a place of love and worship, with her family gathering twice a month to sing, pray, and surround her with faith.

On the morning of August 19, 2025, at 10:00 am, surrounded by her family, God called Ida home.

Ida’s life was a testament to love, faith, and service. She leaves behind a legacy woven into every meal she prepared, every hymn she sang, every lesson she taught, and every life she touched. Her memory will remain etched in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her siblings, her church family, and all who were blessed to know her.

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Northside is serving the Family.

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