Susie Jackson

Susie J. Jackson, 87, lived a long life full of energy and love for her family and fellow church members.

A member of Emanuel AME Church for many years, Jackson was a fixture at Sunday services and Wednesday night Bible studies. She served as a trustee and as an usher. She sang in the adult choir for many years and later enjoyed being a member of the church’s senior citizens group.

Jackson attended Buist Elementary School and Burke High School in Charleston. She was one of six sisters and four brothers and married to the late Walter Jackson. She and her husband raised their son, Walter, Jr., on Charleston’s East Side, and she later raised a daughter, Annette Jackson. When Walter, Jr. moved out of the house, Jackson displayed her “good Samaritan” spirit and offered his room to two young people in her neighborhood who needed shelter.

Close friends and family recall that as an octogenarian Jackson was healthy, active and showed no signs of slowing down. She adored her three grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. She never missed a graduation because she was very passionate about education.

Jackson was very kind-hearted, often giving of her time and resources. Her home was warm, inviting and always a popular place to have good food, fellowship, and fun.

Two weeks before her death, Jackson took a trip to see a cousin’s graduation and visit her son and grandchildren in Cleveland, Ohio. This trip was a little different because she decided to leave cards with her great grandchildren for their upcoming birthdays. She would normally have mailed them from her home in Charleston. It was as if she knew she would not see them again.

Jackson’s legacy of love and service to others has touched many people who have come to appreciate her as a dedicated servant of God.