Mary Jackson

LIEUTENANT COLONEL (RET) MARY E. JACKSON Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Mary E. Jackson peacefully passed away on January 19, 2023, in Des Moines, Wash. surrounded by family. She was 76 years old. Mary was born in Montana and attended Seattle University after which she joined the U.S. Army and served honorably until her retirement in 1995. Mary will be interned alongside her husband, Wayne Jackson, of 47 years at the Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Wash. Mary's life was defined by her relentless will to help others, often prioritizing the needs of all above her own. Whether in Leavenworth or Des Moines, her actions left tangible improvements in the community. After retiring from the Army she was able to dedicate her time and effort to causes large and small, ensuring a voice to the voiceless, food for those who were hungry, compassion for those most in need, and respect for all fellow humans. You could just as easily find Mary delivering meals to elderly neighbors, arranging utility and rent assistance for families, or speaking out against an international conflict often in the same week. Mary's community service knew no limits. Whether volunteering with her husband to help elementary children learn to read or working to aid veterans experiencing addiction challenges, Mary was not content to merely discuss the issues of the day - she only had time for action. Only the love for her family and the Royals could eclipse her selflessness. Mary is survived by her daughter Hope and son-in-law Bob Sonderman, her son Brian Jackson, daughter-in-law Arielle and grandson Clive. She is also survived by her sisters Cathy, Patricia, Anita, Stephanie, Joanne and brother Dennis, three nieces, three nephews, two great-nieces and seven great-nephews.