Lilly Jackson

Lilly Jackson-Norris was born December 28, 1941 in Anderson, South Carolina to Mae Vinson and Robert Gaines. She was the youngest of four children: Ruth Brown-Grooms and Andrew Vinson (both whom preceded her in death), and Leroy Vinson. Lilly moved to Cleveland, Ohio at the age of twelve, attended Wilson Elementary School and Anderson Junior High. Sometime in 1962, she moved on Thornwood Avenue next door to Elizabeth Hogan who has remained her lifelong friend for the past 63 years.

Lilly started her family in 1964 with her first-born Christopher John (whom preceded her in death), Sherdena Denise (Jeff), Lorenda Faye, Andrej Bernard, and Brenda Joyce. Lilly has nine grandchildren-Nicole, Crystal, Shanice, Chris, Sherrina, Ashlie, Justin, Jason, and Camille-and several great-grandchildren.

She married the late Charles Norris in December 1986 and gained four bonus children: Michael, Michelle, Lisa, and Kim.

Lilly's first job was working in a cleaners, she later worked at Hayden Bi-Rite for many years and eventually retired from Heinen's on Som Center Road in 2009.

Growing up, Lilly enjoyed summer road trips, amusement parks, family reunions, and her infamous Capricorn Birthday parties. She is known for her love of shopping, her collection of elephants, coordinated church suits, her extensive hat collection, and her love for the color purple.

Lilly's love for God and the teachings of the bible led her to Mt. Gillion Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Freddie L. Brown through the current leadership of Pastor Nathan Nance. She has been a faithful member for over 40 years with involvement in the choir and becoming a deaconess after her late husband became a deacon. Her attendance subsided in her latter years due to her illness.

Lilly was able to remain in her home for as long as she could as her illness progressed due to her friend Doretta Walton's instrumental role in caring for her.

Lilly will be remembered by her many nieces, nephews, extended family,

and friends.