Tonnie Dean Jackson

Tonnie Dean Jackson, a cherished wife, loving mother, wonderful grandmother, and remarkable woman, passed away on September 26, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer; she was 70 years old. Tonnie was born on December 20, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri to Kelzie Ardeen Wisdom and Dormalee (Adams) Wisdom. She is preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Barbara "Barbie" Jean Howard. On April 6, 1973, she was united in marriage to Charles Willard Jackson, Jr., who survives. To this union two children were born, Kellee Dement and husband, Chris, of Ironton, Missouri, and Bradley Jackson also of Ironton, Missouri. Tonnie and Charley began their life together in Lesterville, Missouri, where Charley sold Jeeps at his father's Jeep dealership, Jackson Jeep. Tonnie began her career by owning and operating a beauty salon in Lesterville, where her warmth and kindness turned everyday visits into lasting friendships. Even after changing careers, she never stopped doing hair for those she loved, a gift she shared with joy throughout her life. After some time, they both went to work at First State Community Bank in Ironton. Eventually, they answered their true calling to serve by building Meadowbrook Residential Care from the ground up. They created more than just a facility; it was a mission driven by compassion and affection. Meadowbrook stands today as a warm, welcoming home where residents receive not only the care they need, but genuine love. Tonnie passionately reminded her staff that Meadowbrook was far more than a workplace; it was truly a home for the residents, who deserved respect, warmth, and heartfelt care. She touched not only the lives of her residents and their families but the lives of her employees as well. Tonnie was a brilliant and accomplished woman and Meadowbrook was her life's work. She always said, "If you love what you do then you will never work a day in your life." Tonnie's colleagues and friends remember her as a tireless caregiver and a mentor to many. She also contributed immensely to the community through sponsorship of many youth programs. She served her community by being a founding board member of Iron County Hospital where she served as vice president for many years. She served on the board of the Missouri Assisted Living Association as well. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Tonnie was known for her warm and caring personality, her generous heart, and always being ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. While she treasured rare moments of leisure, like playing golf, Tonnie's happiest times were spent caring for others, often putting their needs before her own. Tonnie's nurturing spirit, unwavering support, and boundless love will forever live on in the hearts of her children. The love and pride she had for her children was indescribable. Tonnie had four grandchildren who she was immensely proud of: Karson Harbison and husband Levi, Jackson Dement, Connor Jackson, Kate Jackson, and a great-grandchild, Aniston Harbison. It can't be put into words how much she loved her family, and how much her family loved her. They were her heart. Tonnie embodied everything we all aspire to be. Tonnie was the heart of the home, creating the love and warmth that made every gathering special. She was the glue that brought everyone together, and made each moment special. She had a passion for hospitality and loved hosting family gatherings, making every holiday magical . An exceptional cook and homemaker, she delighted in preparing large family meals, always going above and beyond to ensure no one left her home hungry or empty-handed. She also leaves behind a cherished circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were all touched by her generous spirit and warm heart. She loved her church family, who were very supportive of her during her battle. Tonnie faithfully followed Jesus Christ, trusting Him as her Lord and Savior throughout her life and was an active member of First Baptist Church of Iron Mountain. Tonnie's memory will be forever cherished by her family, friends, and colleagues. Her legacy as a mother, business woman, and friend will endure, and her spirit will continue to inspire us all. In our hearts, Tonnie lives on, and we will forever honor the legacy of a remarkable woman who made a lasting impact on all of us. This loving tribute was written by granddaughter, Karson Harbison. Memorials may be made to the Pink Penguin Project or the Boss Cemetery Association. www.pinkpenguinproject.org