Essie M. Jackson

Essie M. Jackson passed away on August 15, 2024, at the age of 79. Born on January 24, 1945, in Manhattan, Kansas, Essie's journey began as a daughter to the late Theodore Woolridge and Goldie Jennings.
She is survived by her children, Felicia, Sharon, Joe Jr., and Leslie (Angela) Jackson, all of South Bend, along with her 17 grandchildren, Latieka Page, LaTangela Avance, Montell, Quawaun, Jacenta, Jorey, Loren, Sharon, Lindsey, Jorese, Jasminia, Shaquor, Jakkar, Daija, Shantel, Ashanti, and Tyler Jackson, and a host of great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who were the apples of her eye. She also leaves behind her brothers, Larry (Emma) Woolridge, James (Silka) Woolridge, and Rudolph Woolridge. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Marcella Williams, Dorothy Dawson, Mary Woolridge and brother, Daniel Woolridge.
Essie's educational journey was marked by a commitment to lifelong learning, having attended Ivy Tech Community College and Bethel University. Her professional life was equally impressive, as she served with dedication as a Certified Nursing Assistant and later retired from the University of Notre Dame as a respected housekeeping supervisor at Morris Inn. Her work ethic and leadership were sources of inspiration to all who had the privilege of working alongside her.
But Essie's heart truly belonged to her church, the Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, where she was not only an usher and a board member but also known as Mother Jackson to many. Her involvement in the church was not just a duty; it was a calling. She embodied the very essence of service, and her unwavering faith was a guiding light for the congregation.
Her interests outside of work and church were as lively and spirited as she was. Essie had an insatiable zest for life, reveling in the joys of traveling to new places and dancing to the rhythms of the world. Her laughter was infectious, her moves on the dance floor unforgettable, and her presence at any gathering was a guarantee of a good time.
Funeral services for Essie will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, 1232 E. Bronson St. South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family half hour prior to the services. Graveside services will immediately follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Osceola.
Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
To send flowers
to the family, please visit our floral store.