Phyllis Jane Jackson

Phyllis Jane Jackson passed away on March 28, 2023. Born December 17, 1938, she grew up in Oklahoma City. She is survived by her best friend and husband of 64 years, Evan, two daughters, Allison, (Mike Ullrich), and Kirsten, (Stuart Gregory), and four precious grandchildren, Andrew, Morgan, Lydia and Meredith. In 1959, she married her first and only love, Evan Jackson and followed his Naval career from Memphis and Rhode Island to Virginia Beach where the family lived during his multiple sea and land tours until he retired in 1977. Phyllis received a BS in special education at ODU in 1984 and studied for a year at Birmingham University, England. She taught preschool for the Tidewater Association for Retarded Citizens (1970-76). In 1976, she started the Virginia Beach Infant Program at Wycliffe Presbyterian Church. She retired in January of 2006. In 2007, she started an infant play group for first time moms, sponsored by VB Public Health Department. Working as a volunteer with young families and their babies, it brought renewed joy into her life. She said, "What an honor to be working again, doing exactly what I love to do." From 1973-1993, Phyllis was the director of Helping Hands Day Camp. Each Summer, for two weeks, over 100 teenagers and 50 adult volunteers, and a lot of community support, provided 100 campers with special needs two weeks of great fun. She impacted 1000's of lives with her work with young children and their families. Phyllis and her family were longtime members of Wycliffe Presbyterian Church and now First Presbyterian Church. She's taught church school, led youth programs, and sang in the choir, was an elected elder, Clerk of the Session, and a delegate to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Phyllis and Evan loved to travel visiting Ireland, Scotland, Prague, England, Norway, Saint John, USVI (for 25 years at Christmas) and 5 cruises with Garrison Keillor from Prairie Home Companion, meeting many longtime friends. Phyllis' greatest joy in life was her family. Her grandchildren were such a treasure, giving her so much love, laughter, and joy. She often said, "I am so thankful for such a good, healthy life, and for my loving family. I love my work with all my heart and am thankful for the privilege to have shared just a small part in the lives of so many children and their families." A memorial service will be held May 10 at 1 PM at First Presbyterian Church, Virginia Beach, VA. Reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall. Children of all ages are encouraged to come! She loved her "kids". In lieu of flowers, make any donations in her memory to a charity or group that benefits children with special needs.