Mary Annie Jackson was born on May 28, 1935, to Charles Geralds and Drucilla Grayson Geralds in Benton, Mississippi. Mary is the loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, as well as the wife to Eddie Lee Jackson, whom she married in June of 1957 in Bell City, Missouri. To this union, eight children were born: sons, Freddie Jackson (Calumet, IL), David Jackson (Marion, IN), Everette Jackson (Marion, IN), Terrell (Angie) Jackson (Kokomo, IN), and Walter L. Jackson (deceased); and daughters, Patricia Jackson, Dorothy Jackson, Joyce Jackson (all of Indianapolis, IN), all of whom she cared for and loved deeply.
Mary was one of six siblings, Grover Geralds (deceased), Charlie James Geralds (Marion, IN), Essie Geralds (George) Levy (Bentonia, MS), Lloyd Shearman Geralds (Benton, MS), Author Lee Haymer (Chicago, IL), and Stella Haymer (New Orleans).
Mary dedicated her life in Christ at the House of Worship in 1971 and, in the same year, was baptized by Rev. Perkins. Throughout her life, Mary was steadfast in her faith and love for Christ. She would travel to go see Paster TD Jakes preach and Lee Williams sing. She united as a member of the House of Worship for All People, under the leadership of Rev. Elder Nukes.
Her life was a living example of the Bible verse, Ephesians 4:32–“And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” A woman with undeniable faith, dignity, honor, integrity, pride, class, and compassion are just a few words to describe Mary Ann Jackson. This is the legacy we have from her. She taught us to fight for what we believe in, fight for what is right, and to have faith in all we do. She gave us strength at times when we didn’t have any. She poured life into us consistently through her actions of genuinely caring and loving us all. She fought for all of us countless times, and we are forever grateful for her guidance, love, and grace. Mary had a vibrant personality and charismatic spirit about her that always made others who were in her presence smile, laugh, and feel welcomed and loved.
Mary received her education foundation at Fugate School in Benton, Mississippi, and Bell City High School. She was an active member of the N.A.A.C.P., where she was awarded a President Award for her dedication and continued support in 2003. She was also a member of the Commanders Club for Disabled American Veterans, where she was rewarded a bronze leadership award in Indiana. She was an active community member and involved with the yearly planning for the Juneteenth celebrations and yearly events.
Mary’s work history is long and diverse. After relocation to Marion, Indiana, she took a position at Foster-Forbes Glass Co., where she retired after 30 years. Upon retirement, Mary loved to travel, especially on a cruise line. She was a dedicated mother first and foremost. Mary treasured her family and embraced every moment with them. She especially adored her role as a grandmother/great-grandmother. She found joy also in hobbies that included gardening (which her favorite was her mustard and turnip greens), shopping, fashion, and cooking! She could make anything from scratch and was famous for her Caramel Cakes. She enjoyed planting flowers outside and caring for her house plants inside.
Mary gained her wings on Wednesday, August 16, 2023. It was a glorious day in heaven as the angels welcomed Mary to the gardens of heaven at 9:30 am. She transitioned from her mortal life to eternal life in the arms of our Lord at the Community North Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Mary left her family and friends beautiful memories we will all cherish forever. Her love will still be our guide. Though we cannot see her, she will always be by our side, as she leaves our circle of love: sons, Freddie Jackson (Calumet, IL), David Jackson (Marion, IN), Everette Jackson (Marion, IN), Terrell (Angie) Jackson (Kokomo, IN), Walter L. Jackson (deceased); daughters, Patricia Jackson, Dorothy Jackson, and Joyce Jackson (all of Indianapolis, IN); grandchildren, Corliss Jackson, Maurice Jackson, Eugene Jackson, Justin Bronaugh, Shayna Jackson, Shanelle Jackson, Christian Brown, Jevante Jackson, Amanda Jackson, Jowan Brown, and Rosie Jackson; many great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, Lori Bobson, Robbie Macon, Lynette Macon Kelly, Roxanne Inman, James Shelton, Sharlean Geralds, Kathy Thompson, Sherman Bassett, Christopher Bassett, and Ruby Johnson.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at House of Worship for All People, 1824 S. Branson St., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Mary’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with Elder Thomas Nukes officiating. Burial will take place at Grant Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to House of Worship for All People, 1824 S. Branson St., Marion, IN 46953.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.