Obituary published on Legacy.com by Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors - Oxford on Oct. 17, 2025.
Maureen (Sullivan) Jackson
November 26, 1935 - October 16, 2025
It is with both great sadness and profound gratitude for a life beautifully lived, that we announce the passing of Maureen Jackson of
Oxford, Michigan.
Born on November 26, 1935, to Thomas and Catherine Sullivan, Maureen was one of five children. She was preceded in death by her parents and three cherished sisters-Eileen, Patricia, and Kathleen. She is survived by her youngest sibling, her loving brother, Kevin Sullivan. She lived a life grounded in faith, family, and love-and on October 16, 2025, at the age of 89, she left us with a final, peaceful "Irish Goodbye."
Maureen took great pride in her Irish heritage, often describing herself as "100% Irish." She and many of her daughters participated in Irish dancing at the Gaelic League in Detroit, and she even danced the hornpipe in a bar in Ireland. Many of her nieces and nephews will miss "Aunt Moe's" fun-loving and welcoming spirit.
Maureen attended St. Ambrose Catholic Parish High School in Detroit, graduating in 1953. She often spoke with warmth and pride about her time there, and remained in touch with several of her classmates throughout her life, keeping in touch with one (Fred) even until her passing.
Maureen's devotion to her Catholic faith marked every chapter of her life. For a time she embraced religious life and entered the nunnery, yet ultimately love called her from the convent when Joe Jackson won her heart. They were married on October 27, 1956, and together, they built a beautiful life and shared a devoted marriage until Joe's passing in 2009.
They went on to raise nine children: eight daughters-Kitty (Kevin, dec'd) Burke, Joleen (Terry) Makar, Karen (Danny) Landa, Kelley (Les) Thomas, Patty (Mark, dec'd) Densmore, Jill (Bill) Trahan, Coleen (Tom) Downs, and Mary Beth (Jeff) VanBuskirk-each born one year apart. Seven years later, their son, Dan Jackson, completed the family. Their home was a place of laughter, kindness and faith, and Maureen was the heart of it.
Maureen will also be remembered lovingly by her many grandchildren (Bridgette, Karen, Tara, Tommy, Terese, Gina, Craig, Kate, Danielle, David, Shawna, Katie, Billy, Beth, Jesse, Tommy, Kevin, Erin, Paul, Mark, Ethan, Nathan and Aubree) and great-grandchildren (Myles, Jillian, Molly, Lucy, Jackson, Hayes, Moxie, Pierce, Luna, Micah, Mariella, Carina, David, Shea, Quinn, Declan, Owen, Austin, Eli, Gabi, Evey, Breslin, Liam, Sophie and Liam) who will carry forward her legacy of strong family, kindness and love. As they all say, "We were lucky enough "
Maureen will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives were touched by her bright spirit. She worked as a secretary at several schools over the years, forming lasting friendships with colleagues who became like family. She supported numerous charities and volunteered regularly through St. Joseph Church, where she served meals alongside a remarkable group of women. She and Joe shared countless joyful hours with their treasured "P-12" group, creating memories full of laughter, love, and card games. It's easy to imagine her now, surrounded by hugs from many of them, a full table, and a deck of cards in hand. No doubt, they're already deep into a few lively rounds of "Oh Heck."
Maureen was the most kind-hearted woman one could ever meet! Her smile was truly infectious. It was impossible to know her and not feel the warmth of her love. Her generosity of spirit, her gentle encouragement and her open heart touched everyone she met. Maureen's kindness, humor, and love will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is now reunited in peace with her beloved husband, Joe.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:
The Solanus Casey Center
Attn: Br. Ben Joseph, Director
1780 Mount Elliott Street
Detroit, MI 48207
https://www.solanuscasey.org/donation/
Visitation will take place at Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors, 39 W. Burdick, Oxford on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 from 3-8 PM with a rosary at 7 PM. The Funeral Mass will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 715 N. Lapeer Rd, Lake Orion, on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 11 AM with visitation beginning at the church at 10:30 AM.