The Beatification of Lanette “Nettie” Jennings

by Frank Gist

Lanette Jennings

St. Martin de Porres was a Peruvian Friar who lived during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, who was known for his extraordinary humility and charity— he cared for the sick and distributed food to the poor. Many miracles were attributed to him during and after his lifetime. He was beatified in 1837 by Pope Gregory XVI and canonized in 1962 by Pope John XXIII. St. Martin de Porres is recognized as the patron saint of Black and mixed-race people, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers, those seeking racial harmony, and animals.

Last week, St. Martin de Porres Roman Catholic Church was filled with an extraordinary outpouring of love for a very special woman. Lanette Jennings, affectionately known as “Nettie,” was suddenly called home to take her place beside her Heavenly Father.

Hundreds of people gathered for a standing-room only funeral service at the church Nettie loved so deeply. The service could only be described as a people’s beatification—a heartfelt celebration of a woman whose life was defined by faith, love, leadership, and service to others Few people are blessed to receive such an overwhelming demonstration of affection and respect. Nettie’s sanctuary at St. Martin de Porres was the place where she poured out her heart and soul, serving her church and community with unwavering devotion.

Lanette “Nettie” Jennings transitioned into eternal rest on August 15, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on August 1, 1951, in Buffalo, New York, she was the daughter of the late Dolores J. Hopkins and Edward Jennings. Throughout her life, Nettie was a beacon of grace, strength, compassion, and vibrant devotion.

A proud native of Buffalo, Nettie was educated in the Buffalo Public Schools. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from Empire State College and a Master of Science degree from [name of college]. Her academic accomplishments laid the foundation for a distinguished career devoted to community leadership and human services.

Her professional service included leadership positions at Bethel Head Start and Erie Niagara Area Health Education Center. Through her work, Nettie helped strengthen families, support children, and create opportunities for people throughout the community. At the center of Nettie’s life was her lifelong commitment to the Roman Catholic faith. As a dedicated parishioner of St. Martin de Porres Roman Catholic Church, her service was unmatched.

She served the church with distinction in numerous capacities, including as chairperson of the Finance Committee. Her passion for worship uplifted the congregation, while her wisdom, experience, and steady leadership benefited the entire parish. Nettie also served as Grand Lady of the Knights of Peter Clever Ladies Auxiliary, Court No. 94, where she exemplified leadership, sisterhood, faith, and service within the Catholic community.

Her faith was not something she practiced only on Sundays. It guided every act of kindness, every leader ship position she accepted, and every person whose life she touched. Nettie lived her faith openly, demonstrating through her actions what it truly means to serve God by serving others.

Like St. Martin de Porres, Nettie understood that genuine faith is expressed through humility, charity, compassion, and service. It was fitting that so many people gathered at the church bearing his name to celebrate a woman who embodied those same principles.

Lanette “Nettie” Jennings leaves behind a powerful legacy of faith, love, leader ship, and community service. Although her earthly work has ended, the seeds she planted will continue to grow in the lives of the countless people she inspired.

She was loved deeply, respected greatly, and will be remembered always.