KATHERINE LEIGH "KATIE" JACKSON AUG 8, 1985-FEB. 6, 1997 An anniversary of incomprehensible sorrow turns 16 today. Bittersweet 16 thrums in the background, the ceaseless soundtrack of our lives. Time does not heal, exactly, but it dulls the agony. We are no longer unaccustomed to Katie's absence, although, like amputees, we know the phenomenon of the phantom limb. Katie is the phantom daughter. Even now, we reach for her, look for her, call her name. Sixteen years later could it possibly be so long? her powerful presence endures. Memories make time travelers of us all, and in ours, Katie is here, giggling, dancing, singing, beaming, hugging, wondering. Every new day an amazement, dreams chased in flashing waves of copper crashing across her ballerina's shoulders, keeping a graceful rhythm known only to her. It is as Tennessee Williams said: "In memory, everything seems to happen to music." But now, stillness prevails. Hard reality crowds memory, where joy abides. Katie, forever just 11, is frozen in amber, a lifetime of boxes gone unticked. College. Europe. The Broadway Dream. Our Katie, brimming with cheer and ambition has gone from us into the arms of the Savior, where all wisdom is revealed, every comfort embraced, every glory achieved. Left behind, we are selfishly miserable in our melancholy, comforted only in the knowledge that each day brings us closer to the moment of divine reunion. Until then, Godspeed, Angel Katie. Love, Mom, Dad, Elizabeth and Christopher
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I'm so amazed every year when I read the article of remembrance Tom writes in Katy's memory.
It's always a reminder to those of us that were fortunate enough to have known Katy, the memories are precious even though God hand picked her to be one of his precious angels. Love to all.
Norma Moses
February 9, 2016
God Bless Katie,Elizabeth,Christopher, Debbie and Tom! What a Beautiful child. XOXO
Dean and Susan Twiggs
February 6, 2016
I remember that day as well. Lives forever changed. May you reflect on the love and memories of your beautiful soul, Katie. God bless you all and comfort your hearts today and forver.
Star Garcia
February 6, 2016
God Bless you Angel. I remember that day like it was yesterday. You are in Gods arms now and praising His Almighty name. I can't even imagaine how your parents felt that sad day. You are a bright and shinning star in the center of Heaven. God bless your family and freinds for having to go through this sorrow. Your memory will always shine in the life of those who knew and loved you.
Beverly Davidson: Adkins
February 6, 2016
God Bless!!!!
Valorie Ballentine
August 9, 2015
Katherine Leigh I did not know you but I know your Mom what a blessing she is and you would be my Daughters age. As I think of her I will think of you. God is holding your hand in Heaven on this your 30 year Happy Birthday in Heaven with our Sweet Lord.
Cheryl Zamora
August 9, 2015
May you find Peace..time does not always heal all wounds.
Cyndi McNatt-williamson
August 9, 2015
Happy Birthday in heaven Angel! you are missed so much by so many. May you continue to keep watch over your Mom, Dad, Sister and Brother. God bless.
Star
August 8, 2015
We always keep your family in our thoughts and prayers on these sad times. We hope you find peace knowing she's being taken care of by God, in Heaven.
Felipe and Pam Yanes
August 8, 2015
For those of us who have experienced multiple losses and tragedies, it's difficult for most people to understand how hard it is at times to carry on. I rely on Blind Faith during the moments of sadness and try to hang on to Sweet Memories...
Jerry Close
February 12, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
danny mcleod
February 8, 2015
I still pray for all of you
susan baker MADD
February 6, 2015
Precious family of Katherine, My heartfelt thoughts & prayers go out once again to each you. Typical of you, you are sharing your innermost feelings with the world. Perhaps not
realizing how much these very words mean to so many, including myself. Thank you, while facing again this painful memory, you are sharing with others. Great words. Great family that represent Katherine so lovingly & so remarkable. You remain an inspiration.
August 12, 2014
A beautiful daughter ... two inspiring parents. Love to all....
Andrea Brunais
August 9, 2014
I recently saw the movie "Heaven is for Real" and cried during the whole movie. Not of sorrow, but joy. Joy for those who are there and dear Katie is among them. May God hold close those who are waiting for that day of reunification with this beautiful child of God. May peace be with you.
August 8, 2014
My love to Debbie and Tom and family. You are such an inspiration to all of us that know you. You, who have lost so much, continue to give much to those you love.
Peggy Moss
August 8, 2014
Such a beautiful tribute to your beautiful Daughter may God bless you!
Cheryl Zamora
August 8, 2014
Love is forever.
Bonnie Wagner
February 22, 2014
I did not know Katie until the accident. I was heartbroken for the Jackson family. Since then, I feel I know her well due to her families tributes over the years! Her love, gifts and family have touched my life. Memories of Katie and family will not be forgotten.
Judy Renault
Judy Renault
February 9, 2014
Katie you are loved by so many people...you have the sweetest smile..Just like your Daddy and Mommie...
Sherry Kiszka
February 6, 2014
Thoughts and prayers for your family on this day of remembrance. May your memories of your sweet baby comfort you today and always. Hugs.
Tina Owens
February 6, 2014
Katie,
Although we have never met, I can guess what a blessing you were based on your wonderful and loving family. Sending love to ALL the Jacksons!
Barb O'Malley
February 6, 2014
God Bless you and your family. My heart and thoughts are with you all
Anna-Maria McGregor
February 6, 2014
To Tom beautifully worded as always! To all family and friends, know that today the sun that was shinning down on us all was Katie smiling down at us!
Cheryl Puleo
August 8, 2013
Thoughts and prayers with the family and friend ??
Tammy Sheldon
August 8, 2013
Tom, Debbie - This day is marked on my calendar and each year, I remember. I remember Katie and those fresh, innocent years; all of it new: play dates, kindergarten, Halloween (our favorite), Christmas (our other favorite), dear little pals - sweet, sweet moments; easier, seemingly carefree times. Tom, your words are (as always) stunningly beautiful - healing, comforting. I, too, ache and look at my 28 year old son and know they would be friends - still. Time passes, and it is not ours to understand - but we trust God's blueprint and,in time,perhaps we will. Probably not until we once again are in the presence of that joyful little freckled face, bursting with life, love and laughter. Until then, love you - still; miss you more.
Melanie Randel
August 8, 2013
Your beautiful daughter has remained in my heart and mind because you choose to share her and keep her memory alive. I spoke to you a few years ago when my son had an accident and suffered a TBI - your words to me were very comforting and I will never forget that. Please continue to share Katherine's memory with those of us who will never forget her. May God Bless all of her family.
Mary Otero
February 13, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
February 12, 2013
Tom and Debbie,
I too look forward to reading your sweet and melodious words that keeps little Katie fresh in our memories. Your words just make my heart fill with sadness and yet I can feel her presence still here with us. What a wonderful gift you have with words and we're blessed that you continue to share them with us. I have never met your family, but I feel a closeness that your sweet words have brought me.
May GOD be with you always,
Jerline Burney, Tampa Fl
February 10, 2013
Debbie & Tom...I can only imagine the pain you have felt over the years. Like everyone else, I enjoy reading your tribute to your lovely daughter and shed a tear. I know her loss was tragic event in your life, but this event did bring us back together again. I treasure our friendship everyday. Thank you Debbie & Tom for all that you do to make us all SMILE! Love, Denise & Mike
Denise Harkey
February 8, 2013
Oh Tom - your gift with words paints Katie so vivdly; the Katie we all knew and loved. Every year, a small heart on my calendar reminds me of this day; but more so, takes me back to a time when we were all so young and fresh and laughing and learning... Our children, so precious, so prized. All of our everydays were devoted to their care and activities and well-being. The sadness I feel on this day is nothing compared to your and Debbie's, but know that we DO care, and remember and love you both so very much. Miss you...
Melanie O'Neill-Randel
February 6, 2013
Dear Debbie and Tom~
Every year I read your beautiful tribute to your daughter and I cry every year. Your words are so moving. I wish I could do something to ease the pain. Love to you all
Donna Maggio <3
February 6, 2013
Every year your beautiful memorial to gorgeous Katie brings me to tears. Joe and I always think of all of you on February 6. Give Debbie, Elizabeth and Christopher extra hugs today xoxo
Joe & Lucy Patsko
February 6, 2013
I would have loved to have met your Katie, but by having gotten to know and love Debbie, I can imagine the joy and beauty this lovely young girl inherited...beautiful words so eloquently written by her loving father. God Bless those she left behind.
Jackie Fontanills
February 6, 2013
You guys are always in my heart. Wishing you peace. All my love,
Kelly Seeley
February 6, 2013
God Bless You Debbie & family, on this day of grief for your precious little girl. Prayers for you today...
Debbie Giles-Grieshaber
February 6, 2013
Thoughts and prayers with all of you today.
Keri Everlove White
February 6, 2013
Tom, We were neighbors many years ago on River Grove Ct. Each year I read your memorial to Katie and pray that you be blessed with God's peace that surpasses all understanding. Be well and continue to cherish and find joy in those precious memories. Katie (Schoenig) Nodland-Pope
Katie Nodland-Pope
August 15, 2012
Tom,Debbie;
I cannot fathom losing my first child, or grandchild. I can understand Loss as it speaks to Mother Father & Sister, but it is very very different when it was a gift given to you by The Most High God. I understand a lot more about you, just by your love...
God will continually Bless the both of you..
Herb & Sherri Fluitt
Her Fluitt Jr
August 10, 2012
Thinking of you and your family today. Love to you all
Donna Maggio and family
August 8, 2012
Rest in peace Katie. Thoughts and prayers with you always Tom and Debbie. All our love- the Robinson's(Jody O'Steen and family)
Jody O'Steen
August 8, 2012
I know Katie was one of a kind and enjoyed life to the fullest!!! I know she is a beautiful angel making heaven a more beautiful place. We have the hope of seeing her again!
Joan Butler
August 8, 2012
My love gones out to all of you. Love, Nancy Shannon
August 8, 2012
Saying a prayer for you and Katy.
Frank Jiannetti
August 8, 2012
Beautiful Katy,Gone but you will never be forgotten..That sad day will never be forgotten.May you Rest in Peace in God's loving arms.I am sure you would have become an outstanding young woman,your family would be so proud..
Linda Kender
August 8, 2012
Thank you so much for sharing your painful story twice a year. I have been following every entry since you began . Every time I cry and hug my children a little tighter. About 10 years ago I started posting your memorium in my 6th grade classroom by the door hoping that students would read it and take a moment to reflect on this girls life and how precious it is . Many have read and asked questions over the years. I am on a break from teaching now but I have a 9yr old daughter that I feel the need to share Katie's story and your pain. I believe that one day you all will be reunited and all the pain and grief will evaporate.
February 15, 2012
I just wanted you to know that often when I drive thru THAT intersection I think of your family and that awful day. It is like the "John Kennedy moment" for me, as I associate the girl scout cookies I was arranging to be picked up from Deborah when this happened. My "Brownies" are all young women now just starting their "grown-up" lives with marriages, careers, and even babies. I actually can envision Katie as one of these young women. After all this time, even people like me who barely even knew your family are still effected by the tragedy of this event. My heartfelt prayers are with your family.
Love,
Lisa Grady
Lisa Grady
February 15, 2012
I did not know your daughter, but after reading every memorial to her that you, her father, have written each year, I feel I do know her. Each memorial has warmed my heart to see such loving parents' tribute, but it has also triggered many tears from the words that are so heart wrenching in the aftermath of your loss. May you have God's strength and peace as you continue through the years without Katie by your side.
Bobbi Ross
February 14, 2012
I heard it years ago, but it still rings true: Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal. My thoughts and prayers are with you, just as they were those many years ago.
Joe Brown
February 7, 2012
Praying that God will always give you peace and help with the pain. David said this in 2 Samuel that his son could not come to where he was but he could go to where his son is.Just knowing that there is the promise of a future reunion brings joy and peace to our hearts. Continuing to pray for your family.Pastor Steve Redman
February 7, 2012
Once again, I am in tears over your family's loss. What a beautiful tribute to your daughter. I will keep you all in my prayers.
a newspaper friend
February 6, 2012
I wanted to send a message to your family that I often think of Katie! I recently came across a few pictures of us at Hunter's Green from Halloween, and from a birthday party! I am so thankful to have known Katie! She was a wonderful, beautiful, person insode and out!
Love,
Ashley Pelon Robertson
February 6, 2012
Always in my thoughts and prays. Love you all. Donna Maggio
Donna Maggio
February 6, 2012
Wishing you all peace. All my love.
Kelly
February 6, 2012
Debbie and Tom,
No matter how much times goes by, a part of yourselves will always be missing. Remember the Blessing of the Gift of Life, Katherine. And to be able to share and to learn from her the true meaning of Life. May the God of Love continue to sustain you with His promise of Hope for the future. When He will soon end all suffering on the earth.
"He will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mouring nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away. And the One seated on the throne said; "LOOK! I am making all things NEW.....these words are faithful and TRUE."
James' Mother
August 15, 2011
Pure Beauty and Sunshine. I am thinking of you Debbie and Tom.
Lynn Murray
August 9, 2011
Your families' tragedy is one that has touched me since the day I read it in the Tribune so many years ago. My children are close in age to your Katie and Elizabeth. I have shed many tears over the years when I have read the beautifully written in Memotiam's each year. Your ability to put into words your love for your precious daughters and son has deeply touched me. I feel you have a profound "sanctity for human life" that you can share with others. I have never met your family, but please know I have prayed for each of you. Katie has touched so many hearts in her short life. Your efforts have made that possible. Happy Birthday Katie! it was a sweet life.
With Love,
A newspaper friend from Avon Park, Florida
August 8, 2011
Love & Light Jackson Family.
Kelly Seeley
August 8, 2011
Beautiful, as ever, my dear one.
Debbie Jackson
August 8, 2011
Debbie & Tom...What strength, courage and love you have shown for your daughter in the past 14 years. She and you are never forgotten in my prayers. I can not even imagine the hole that is left in your heart for her. Peace & love always! Denise & Mike Harkey
Denise Harkey
February 8, 2011
You are all in my thoughts and prayers...my heart just breaks for your loss...and I am humbled and amazed by your strength, grace, and love. Absolutely Beautiful...
Lynn Munoz Murray
February 6, 2011
What a beautiful tribute to your daughter! I am so sorry that your time together was so short. There is so much love expressed in this passage and I certainly feel blessed to have read it today.
Debbie Condon
February 6, 2011
Your loss still takes my breath away. Such a beautiful child gone too soon. God bless you all.
A stranger
Cynthia Clark
August 8, 2010
Dear Jackson Family:
My memories of Katie are so vivid! I think of her and can picture her face so clearly. I lovingly remember lunches at Burrs, the famous Jackson 4th of July parties, Julie and Jamie's barn party. My photo album photographs of all of you from your Christmas cards and from the party at Crawford's Barn are very precious to me. Thinking of you always,
Lisa
Lisa Kale
February 15, 2004
PS I must have lost a couple of years here. How could this have been seven years ago? Is this really 2004?
Susan Snedeker Meier
February 11, 2004
It hardly seems possible that it has been five years. Your memories help us to know this child whose life was way too short.
Susan Snedeker Meier
Susan Snedeker Meier
February 11, 2004
Bert & Betty Adams
February 11, 2004
I remember Katie as a precocious toddler, cute a button, frolicing with her cousin Dustin at her great grandmother's home in Rutherford, TN.
Great Uncle Bob
Robert Crouse
February 11, 2004
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