Outstanding Native Women

Judy Jacobs:Internationally renowned gospel artist and speaker

The daughter of sharecroppers Johnson and Gaynell Jacobs, Judy Jacobs (Lumbee Tribe) was born in Lumberton, North Carolina, and is the youngest of twelve children. Her family, devout Christians, struggled financially.

Judy began singing in church at age six, and at eight, underwent a spiritual conversion experience. Her parents recognized her talents and encouraged her toward a music career. She and her sisters formed the gospel singing group, The Jacobs Sisters.

She attended school in Orrum, North Carolina, population 79 at the 2000 census. After graduating from Orrum High School, Jacobs ente...