JANE STEPHENS JACKSON

Jane Stephens Jackson, beloved mother and friend, passed away peacefully at home on February 18, 2025 at the age of 71. She was born on April 17, 1953 in Wise, VA. Jane was a caring matriarch who loved everyone in her world deeply and unconditionally. Jane’s light touched the lives of all who knew her, and though she was taken from us too soon, her spirit and love will shine in our hearts forever.

Jane will be remembered as a giver to all of those who were fortunate enough to be blessed by her friendship. She had a heart that was larger than life itself. In her younger years, she was a shy cheerleader at J.J. Kelly High School who quietly commanded the room with her smile. That sweet smile captured the heart of Mark Jackson, her high school sweetheart. In March of 1973, Jane and Mark were married and shortly after they moved to the Atlanta, GA area where she lived out the rest of her life, while forever keeping Wise, VA in her heart. During her married years, Jane was a homemaker who dedicated her entire world to raising her children and was ever so proud of the adults that they grew into. In her later years, she so deeply cherished her grandchildren and blanketed them with that same love and encouragement, never missing a ball game, piano recital, family chapel, parade, or class party. Jane relished being able to spend her time in retirement watching her grandchildren grow, often mentoring them through life’s challenges - they will forever remember precious time with their Gigi. Whenever any of her children or grandchildren took a knock in life, Jane was always there as a compassionate voice of reason and support, no matter the circumstance. A selfless inspiration to everyone around her, Jane always made everyone strive to be better. 

Jane’s zest for life was evident in everything that she did. She loved being outside and spent countless afternoons on her patio enjoying the beauty of nature, feeding the birds, and watching the critters frolic in the yard. She was a magnet for all sorts of animals, drawing them close without trying and showering them with love and kindness. Jane was a true animal lover, always rescuing strays of the human and animal kind, offering them the same warmth and affection that she gave to her family. Jane never met a stranger and took in many strays over the years in times of need which evolved into an ever-growing extended family as could be felt during every holiday celebration. Her laugh, her smile, her dry humor, and her fun, loving personality drew everyone in who had the pleasure to know her. 

Jane will be remembered for her ability to find happiness and joy in the simplest of things, positivity in the darkest of moments, for her selfless nature, and for the warmth that she brought to everyone around her. Her presence lit up every room that she entered. Her infectious smile, caring nature, and radiant energy made her a beacon of light in the lives of all who were lucky enough to know her. Jane loved to watch sports whether at her grandchildren’s games, college football, or anything professional. She was always watching some sort of game with baseball leading the pack as her favorite past time. She spent countless hours playing in her fantasy leagues always vying for the coveted first place so that she could have the bragging rights. 

Jane’s love for her family was immense, and she leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and compassion. Jane was the daughter of the late Donald Stephens Sr and Bertha Jeanne Harris. Jane is survived by her four children Jesse Stephen Jackson, Shana Nicole Dolan (Michael), Carmen Jackson Hagen (Bradley), and Luke Fletcher Jackson. She is also survived by her siblings Donald Stephens Jr (Jonelle), Ruth Alene Elkins (Edward), Patrick Stephens (Tracy), Retha Robinette (Emory), Rhonda Moore, and Renee Moore, as well as five grandchildren - Jonah, Charles, Thomas, Ella, and James and many extended family members. Jane’s presence in the lives of those who knew her was a blessing to all and her love and laughter will live on in the hearts and minds of her family and friends. She is going back home to Wise, VA for her eternal rest and will be forever missed.

A celebration of life service will be held on March 15, 2025 from 11-2 at The Inn at Wise for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Friends of Oconee County Animal Shelter https://www.friendsofocasga.org/