Willie Ruth Jackson

Our beloved mother, Mrs. Willie Ruth Jackson, was born in Biloxi, Mississippi on February 26, 1925. She was raised in Biloxi under the strict guidance of her father, Joseph Gradford, Sr., who was a minister and her mother, Willie Ruth, who she was named after. Unfortunately, her mother died when she was only 12 years old. Growing up in the South was not easy, but the island-like atmosphere of Biloxi gave her a beautiful escape. She and her one brother and three sisters, would share stories from the past that were both insightful and inspiring. Mother's grandmother studied with Jehovah's Witnesses, and sometimes she was at her grandmother's home when the witnesses would visit. She remembered hearing what seemed like a strange but refreshing message coming out of what appeared to be a victrola. Little did she realize that she too would become one of those kingdom proclaimers sharing a message to others that may have seemed strange but full of truth. Mother dedicated her life to Jehovah and symbolized her dedication through water baptism on July 25, 1969, at the International Convention of Jehovah's Witnesses held at the White Sox Ball Park in Chicago. She served Jehovah whole heartedly and truly enjoyed teaching others about the good news from the Bible. Mother and our father, Robert Jackson, Sr., were married for 33 years and through their union, they had seven children: Robert Jr., Freddie, McKelvie, Priscilla, Delta, Hilda and Jerome. Mother was truly a remarkable woman whose strength carried the whole family especially after dad's death in 1976. Her wisdom was beyond her years. And as for the term, “Superwoman”, she seemed to personify it. She literally did everything for her family and others and never complained. We feel she was the best cook ever and a devoted mother and grandmother with such a great sense of humor. Mother loved her ministry, preaching several hours in addition to taking good care of her family. Sometimes we would hear her humming Kingdom melodies and a little music from Al Green. Her favorite movies included Perry Mason, Charlie Chan and cowboy movies. Mom's outgoing and friendly personality attracted many to her and she was deeply loved. She had a smile that would melt your heart. On June 13, 2018, mom fell asleep in death. We look forward to welcoming her back to a paradise earth where no resident will say I am sick as promised at Isaiah 33:24. She was preceded in death by her father and mother, one brother, three sisters, her husband Robert Jackson, Sr., and her three children, Robert Jr., Freddie and Delta. She will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her, but especially her daughters Priscilla and Hilda, sons McKelvie and Jerome (Tyjuanne), and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, and family members too numerous to mention.

Tributes

Willie Ruth Jackson

February 26, 1925 - June 13, 2018