Our Team

Twala Lockett-Jones | Broker, Owner

As far back as she can remember, Twala Lockett-Jones has had a love for buildings, houses and land– all things real estate really. She knew her life’s work would somehow involve real estate. Twala remembers visiting properties with her parents as a child, and envisioning opening up a wall or adding a beautiful staircase and a chandelier. She recalls driving through Kalamazoo’s downtown, admiring the intricate architectural details of the historic buildings.

When she was 10, Twala built a clubhouse in the family’s backyard from scrap wood and vinyl siding. The children from the neighborhood would hang out in the clubhouse for hours eating chips, snack cakes, and candy from the corner store and playing fun games, and participating in learning activities.

Twala was born and raised in Kalamazoo. She has a special love for this great city and deep roots in this community. Twala credits her ability to communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and various communication styles to having ten siblings, all with unique personalities. Her eldest sister, Robyn (Lockett) Robinson, became a Realtor in the early 80’s. The two had many similar interests and Twala wanted to follow her big sister’s real estate career path. In 1989, at the age of 19, Lockett-Jones purchased her first home. Needless to say, her sister, Robyn, represented her in the transaction. Twala vowed that she would NEVER pay anybody rent!! She recalls the pride she felt in achieving the dream of homeownership at such a young age!

Twala began working as a receptionist at Pierson Real Estate in 1988. The most fulfilling part of her job was interacting with clients and playing a part in helping people achieve homeownership. She felt so passionate about it that she decided to obtain her real estate license in 1996. Lockett-Jones remained at Pierson Real Estate as a salesperson under the tutelage of Broker Willie Mae Pierson from 1996 until she started Lockett-Jones Realty Group in 2019. Willie Mae Pierson made history by becoming the first black woman brokerage owner in Kalamazoo in 1967. Over 50 years later, Twala became the second black woman to own an independent real estate brokerage in Kalamazoo. Twala is grateful and thankful to stand on the shoulders of such a trailblazer. She feels a responsibility to pass the torch that has been passed to her to future generations.

Twala is also an author. She recently wrote a children’s book entitled “Princess Mackie Buys A House” to educate youth in underserved communities about the importance of homeownership and generational wealth building. Twala has become affectionately known as “The Purpose-Driven Realtor” in the community. She recently received the 2023 GKAR Philip Perry Humanitarian of the Year Award for her service with various organizations and committees which create housing opportunities: Kalamazoo County Housing Task Force, Kalamazoo County Affirmative Marketing Committee (Reducing Barriers to Housing), Eastside Gateway Project Committee, Kalamazoo Homeownership Event Working Group, Eastside Neighborhood Association–Show Me The Money Events. She is very passionate about black & brown homeownership and financial literacy education.

Twala and her husband, Kenneth Jones, live in Kalamazoo and have three adult children. They own a small construction company. The couple also own and manage several rental units. They are Landlords, Real Estate Investors, and Developers. They take pride in transforming blighted and neglected properties into dignified affordable housing in underserved
neighborhoods within the city of Kalamazoo.

For her success, Twala credits her faith and her close-knit family. “Counting my blessings is very important to me. I have been blessed with a loving family and a successful and fulfilling real
estate career, which has allowed me to live an abundant life, and to be a blessing to others, says Lockett-Jones. “I am surrounded by an amazing team of like-minded Realtors at Lockett-Jones Realty Group. We have built so many wonderful relationships in this community. Real estate plays a significant role in everyone’s lives, and it’s an honor to provide such an important service to this amazing community.”

Twala Lockett-Jones looks forward to providing high-touch service and offering real estate strategies to help you build wealth through real estate.

Anthony Andrews, Sr. | Realtor

Anthony T Andrews Sr. is married to Karmin Armstrong-Andrews. He is the father of Neveah, Anthony Jr. and Kayleb. Anthony is originally from Grand Rapids, MI. He relocated to Kalamazoo in 2011. Anthony has an extensive background in manufacturing, sales, customer service and entrepreneurship.

Andrews has started various business ventures throughout the years. He decided to pursue a career in real estate in 2018. Anthony joined Lockett Jones Realty Group in 2020. Now, in the fifth year of his real estate journey, Andrews enjoys challenging himself and stretching beyond his comfort zone to learn different aspects of the industry.

Anthony likes the residential side of real estate; but found his niche working commercially zoned vacant land deals. He has primarily focused his energy in the commercial space.

Anthony gets excited about working with business owners, engineers, city staff, excavators and attorneys to bring a commercial vacant land transaction to fruition. Anthony says “This work brings me to life.”

Andrews is the owner of Infinite Potential Development LLC. He is also an award
winning rap artist, author, and has ventured into podcasting to express his passions about personal development, wealth, and entrepreneurship.

Anthony is committed to serving his real estate clients with excellence. One of his motto’s to live by is “You are a walking commercial. What are you advertising?”
Anthony understands the customer/client experience should be memorable. He is
dedicated to building long-lasting relationships with the community, business
owners, and local municipalities.
Reach out to Anthony Andrews today for your real estate needs.

 Dionna Johnson| Realtor

Originally from Ypsilanti, Michigan, Dionna Johnson is a 2nd generation Realtor. Her father was a well-known Realtor in her hometown of Ypsilanti. She has been a resident of Kalamazoo, MI for more than 35 years.

Dionna earned a degree in criminal justice from Western Michigan University. She is the proud mother of two adult children who are dedicated to serving others as a family medicine physician and a Unites States Airman.

After 21 years in law enforcement as a Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Deputy, plus several more years as the owner of Diamond Security Company, Johnson decided to follow in her fathers’ footsteps and become a Real Estate professional. Dionna joined Lockett-Jones Realty Group in 2021. Her background in Law Enforcement helped prepare her for success in Real Estate by enhancing her development of interpersonal communication skills, her ability to pay close attention to detail, and building relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. These skills are essential to the development of a well-rounded Real Estate Agent.

Dionna volunteers time at her local church where she is the Director of the Security Ministry. She also serves as the announcement Secretary for the church’s social media presence.

Serving others is very important to Dionna. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, an organization known for being service-oriented and giving back to the community. Dionna goes above and beyond to exceed client expectations.

Whether you are looking to purchase a home, sell your home, or both– look no further! Dionna is ready to walk you through the process; and the relationship doesn’t end at the closing table! Contact Dionna Johnson today to learn more.

James Bailey | Realtor

James C. Bailey was born in Alamo, Tennessee. Due to family hardships in the South, he, along with 4 siblings, and his disabled veteran father moved with his paternal grandfather from the cotton fields of Trenton, Tennessee to his home in Kalamazoo, Michigan in 1963. James has been married for more than 50 years to his wife, Kate. They have 2 daughters, 4 grandchildren and 1 great grand.

Bailey recently retired from the position of Director of Facilities Maintenance with Family Health Center of Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he served energetically with joy, passion, compassion, commitment, and dedication in support of the under-served, under-insured, and under-appreciated, while overseeing maintenance crews, and cleaning staff to keep the buildings aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally hypoallergenic; also keeping creature comfort systems functioning properly.

Prior to Family Health Center, James retired from his position of Supervisor of Utilities; Facilities / Multi-Craft Maintenance with the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, Michigan, after 24-1/2 years. He received his Journeyman’s License through their apprenticeship program in collaboration with KVCC, and the Bureau Of Apprenticeship Standards. He taught “Introduction to Machining”at KVCC.

James earned his martial arts black belt in Uechi-Ryu – Okinawan Karate studying and training under 5th Dan, Bill Keith, 3 rd Dan – Kevin Earl, and 2 nd Dan, Nicholas Ball in order to confidently and effectively assist in neutralizing bullying, and rescuing victims where necessary. James C. Bailey served as youth minister at Faith Temple Church of God, when he was called to pastorate and departed to assist a pastor suffering failing health. Then in 1980, Pastor James C. Bailey founded; “Rock Of Revelation Apostolic Church, Inc,” in Kalamazoo.

In 1998, Pastor James Bailey was elevated to the office of Bishop. Enrolling in the Ministerial Training Institute, he completed his Bachelors of Arts in Biblical Studies, Master of Arts in Biblical Counseling, and Doctor Of Theology. He passionately pastored for 37 years.

He was also Founder and Trainer at the Lion Hearted Training Center in Kalamazoo, which ran concurrently with the Church, teaching construction trades to the community.

James C. Bailey, PhD is an accomplished artist, having artworks posted and marketed on Saatchiart.com artworks; donating 10% of all art sales to the United Way. He is also a self-published author of several books: The Blood Throughout The 7 Dispensations, What About The Thief?, Seduced Exploited X, Snow Spiders, PK- Preacher’s Kids, The Inducer, Observations, and I Want To Be A Custodian When I Grow Up!

James founded JCB UNLIMITED, LLC to assist aging homeowners with repairs and modifications to help them remain in their homes. Bailey supports many charities including Kalamazoo Gospel Mission, Disabled American Veterans, United Negro College Fund, St. Joseph Indian School, Doctors Without Borders, March Of Dimes, UNICEF, Shriners Hospital For Children, The United Way, Wounded Warrior Project, and the American Cancer Society. He is also a regular blood donor with the American Red Cross.

Bailey has received the following certifications: Certificate of Completion for The Steven R. Covey – 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People; Primavera Systems Inc Project Planning and Scheduling, Coaching and Team-building; SkillPath Inc for Skills for Managers/Supervisors, Toastmasters International Public Speaking; L. Lee Stryker Center for Management Studies; Marshall Institute – Effective Planning; Scheduling.

James C. Bailey has a proven life of passion, a voracious appetite for knowledge, and unparalleled performance in efforts to help others. Being enthusiastic about life and opportunities to pursue dreams, James is stepping boldly and energetically into a new, exciting and challenging venture to continue service to humanity in a critical area of need – housing. Bailey’s passion to help others aligns perfectly with the mission of the prestigious Lockett-Jones Realty Group.

James is excited to continue learning and utilizing all related training and experience to optimize performance for the benefit of clients and the Greater Kalamazoo community.

Mr. Bailey is ready to assist you with your real estate needs. Give him a call today!

James Jackson | Realtor

James Jackson, also known as Jimmy Jamm, is a dedicated individual serving the communities of Kalamazoo, Michigan, and Buffalo, New York. With a passion for helping others accomplish their dreams and goals, he has made a significant impact on the lives of numerous individuals over the past year.

Originally from Kalamazoo, Jimmy has established himself as an integral part of the Kalamazoo Eastside Neighborhood Association, serving as the former board president. Through his active involvement, he has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life in the neighborhood, advocating for positive change and community development.

Inspired by the joy of cruising and exploring different places, Jimmy has embraced the opportunity to travel all across the country. Whether he is sailing on majestic cruise ships or immersing himself in new destinations, he finds solace in being surrounded by the beauty of the open waters and the vastness of the world.

While traveling is an important aspect of his life, Jimmy has a profound passion for helping clients achieve their dreams of homeownership. As a real estate professional, he works diligently to guide first-time homeowners through the process, ensuring that their dreams of owning a home become a reality. Just like his love for personal training and transforming his clients’ bodies, Jimmy’s commitment to empowering others is evident in both his professional and personal endeavors.

With his charismatic and energetic personality, Jimmy is truly dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of those around him. He believes that by serving his community and facilitating the accomplishment of others’ dreams and goals, he can contribute to a brighter and more fulfilling future for everyone he encounters.

Jimmy is actively involved in the following committees:

Kalamazoo Eastside Neighborhood Association

Eastmain Corridor Committee

GKAR Community Relations Committee

Serve For Kids Committee

Kalamazoo Land bank Real Estate Committee

His unwavering dedication to community service, love for travel, and passion for helping others sets him apart as an incredible individual who continues to inspire those around him with his boundless enthusiasm and genuine care for the well-being of others.

Reach out to Jimmy if you have any questions about what’s happening in the community and to help you prepare to purchase your new home.

Jennell Robinson | Realtor

Jennell Robinson, by way of Saginaw, MI is an exceptional individual who brings passion, talent, and dedication to her work. Born in Brooklyn, New York, rooted in her Caribbean background from Trinidad and Tobago, she proudly infuses cultural richness into her relationships.

As a Realtor, notary and seasoned Manager, she possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the real estate industry.

Jennell’s role as the Operations Manager for Lockett-Jones Realty Group highlights her abilities in training, mentoring, policies, and procedure composition and overseeing daily operations. With over 20 years of customer service competency and management, she implements effective marketing strategies that contribute to the success of the brokerage and teammates and utilizes her talents to create a supportive and productive work environment.

Prior to entering the real estate industry, Robinson spent over 14 years in gaming and hospitality. During her career in gaming, Jennell was planted in the slot department commencing as a slot attendant making payouts, interacting with guests, and attending to her daily responsibilities. Upon her exit, Jennell retired from the gaming industry as a slot shift Manager having worked alongside an array of people, successfully opening two casinos nearby including recruitment of front line staff, interviewing, training, scheduling, and other supervisory responsibilities as they arose.

Beyond her profession, Jennell is a devoted mother to two wonderful sons, ages 21 & 9 and a proud pup owner, reflecting her nurturing and caring nature that extends beyond her work. Her love for plants is evident in her day-to-day life, as tending to and nurturing brings her immense joy and fulfillment.

In her youth, Jennell spent time modeling in local fashion shows and finds herself comfortable in front of a camera to this day. Additionally, Jennell finds solace and expression through painting on canvas. Furthermore, her culinary skills shine as she loves cooking delicious meals for those who appreciate tasty food.

Her strong faith in Christ further inspires her supportive and personable nature, always ready to lend an ear and offer guidance to those in need.

Enthusiastic about community, Jennell actively engages with organizations such as the Kalamazoo Land Bank, Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services and Kalamazoo Public Housing Commissions and others. She contributes her time and efforts to pop-up events and local projects, driven by her goal of making a positive impact and support wherever she can.

Jennell’s exceptional qualities and dedication have garnered recognition, as she has been nominated for Realtor of the Year by the Greater Kalamazoo Association of Realtors. This nomination underscores her outstanding contributions and commitment to the real estate profession.

Her love for organizing, cleaning, cooking, and home improvement shines through in her mindfulness and ability to create beautiful and functional spaces. With her exceptional relationships with buyers, sellers, and investors, Jennell’s relational-driven approach sets her apart. She understands and caters to the unique needs and objectives of each client, going beyond to exceed their expectations. Jennell’s passion for staging properties ensures that they are presented in their best light, maximizing their appeal and value in the market.

In summary, Jennell Robinson is not just a Realtor, but a compassionate and resolute professional who brings her love for people, nurturing nature, and diverse talents to everything she does. Her commitment to her clients, community, and personal growth sets her apart. Jennell’s passion and love for her work are always evident.

Feel free to give her a call today. She would love to assist in making your real estate goals reality.

#buyandsellwithjennell

Jennellsellsmichigan.com

Kerri Thomas | Realtor

Kerri Thomas is a proud Kalamazoo area native. She attended Western Michigan University, where she studied Community Health Education and Holistic Health. Kerri has more than a decade of sales and customer service experience, and almost a decade in pharmaceutical manufacturing for the largest pharmaceutical company in the world, where she oversees the production of millions of life saving medications that are distributed globally.

Kerri is actively involved in the community where she volunteers at several charitable organizations, including Kalamazoo area homeless shelters, A.S.P.C.A, and other non-profit organizations.

Her background in the pharmaceutical industry has enabled her to serve her community and the world in one of the highest ways possible by ensuring every patient is able to receive great quality medications manufactured in her own community.

Kerri decided to pursue a career in real estate because of her strong desire to continue to serve her community and surrounding areas at the same high level to help clients in the Greater Kalamazoo Area find a place to call their own, to educate her peers about the importance of home ownership, to provide an exceptional level of professionalism, and to carry on the family business.

Please contact Kerri for all your real estate needs.

Tyron Gaddie | Realtor

Tyron Gaddie is a dedicated full-time Licensed Realtor with over a decade of experience, specializing in the greater Kalamazoo County area – his hometown. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned seller, Tyron is committed to making your real estate journey smooth by assisting you along the way.

As your Realtor, Tyron takes pride in being a no-pressure advocate for his clients. He believes in bridging the gap to home ownership, ensuring everyone has a chance to find their dream home. With repeat business and satisfied clients, Tyron has built a reputation of integrity, honesty, and exceptional service.

Having worked with countless buyers and sellers, Tyron understands both sides of the transaction. Let him handle the details while you focus on your next chapter. From negotiations to paperwork to closing, he’s got you covered.

Ready to buy, sell, or explore your options? Reach out to Tyron anytime, he’s here to help!