February 7, 2025
Home Going Service & Healthcare Disparities of Black Women
Neptune, NJ – The community of Neptune and beyond is in mourning as we remember Mrs. Alberta January, a beloved figure known for her unwavering dedication to caring for others. Alberta, who passed away peacefully at the age of 63, touched the lives of everyone she met and left behind a legacy characterized by compassion, strength, and community spirit.
Alberta was a proud graduate of Brookdale Community College, where she tirelessly worked late into the night to balance her studies with her full-time position at Monmouth Medical Center as a Patient Care Associate on Todd 6 West. Colleagues and friends recall her commitment to patient care, consistently treating her patients with respect and excellence even in challenging circumstances. "She was the embodiment of compassion," said a fellow Patient Care Associate. "Her ability to connect with patients and provide exceptional care was truly inspiring."
Alberta's journey as a healthcare professional was not without its challenges. In the 1990s, during staff reductions and nursing shortages, Alberta and her friends shared the difficulties of working as Patient Care Associates. They often cared for up to 50 patients each night, a workload that led to physical and emotional wear and tear. Despite these hurdles, Alberta's spirit never wavered. She later transitioned to clinical research and private duty nursing, where she continued to thrive and serve her community while her youngest son became a doctor. Local Kid From Asbury Park & Neptune Promoted To Medical Dir. Of Cooper Univ. Ambulatory Operations https://www.echonewstv.com/post/local-kid-from-asbury-park-neptune-becomes-medical-director-at-cooper-university-health-care
As a nurturing mother, Alberta was dedicated to raising her children—Christina, Stephen, Aisha, Amanda, Ernest and Angelica—under the loving guidance of St. Stephen A.M.E. Zion Church in Asbury Park. She was a remarkable role model and a fierce advocate for her children's well-being, confidently asserting that their strong-minded nature was an asset in facing the world's challenges. Tragically, Alberta faced the heartbreaking loss of her daughter Christina, who passed away in 2018 after battling diabetes for much of her life.
Alberta's infectious spirit extended beyond her family life; her culinary skills and vibrant community events, such as the "January in July!" 4th of July celebration solidified her role as a cornerstone of her community. Friends and neighbors fondly recall her famous potato salad and delicious ribs, which brought people together and fostered a strong sense of belonging.
Moreover, Alberta's story highlights the concerning trend of premature deaths among Black citizens in the U.S. Recent research from Tulane University has indicated that Black adults face a 59% higher risk of premature death compared to their White counterparts. This alarming statistic underscores the systemic challenges affecting health equity and the urgent need for collective action to improve health outcomes in marginalized communities.
As we remember Alberta January, we honor her life and her profound impact on many. She leaves behind her cherished parents, Mr. Allen Thomas Sr. and Mrs. Beatrice Thomas, and her dear children, who will continue to uphold her legacy of love, strength, and community care. Community members are encouraged to come together to remember Alberta, celebrating a life devoted to helping others and inspiring future generations.
In honor of Alberta's memory, we pledge to continue her mission of advocacy, compassion, and resilience as a community. Addressing systemic racism is crucial, as it is one of the most preventable factors contributing to the early demise of Black Americans in the United States.
Alberta's Home going Celebration with be held at St. Stephens A.M.E. Zion Church 1001 Springwood Ave Asbury Park NJ 07712.
Viewing: 10 AM-11AM Funeral Service: 11 A.M.
Please enjoy Stevie Wonders Blues Soul Song
"Looking for Another Pure Love"
Echo News T.V. L.L.C. Disclosure claim: The author did not receive external funding for this work and has no conflict of interest.
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