Jackie I. Highsmith

1928 - 2016

HIGHSMITH Jackie I Highsmith, age 87, passed away peacefully in her sleep early Saturday 1/9/2016 at her home in St Augustine. She was born in Berlin GA in January of 1928, the daughter of John and Nellie Woodard. She was the first in her family to receive a high school education, and grew up in rural poverty not unlike the pioneers of 18th century Georgia. She announced that her name was Jackie sometime time before her 4th birthday and she was known by that name for her entire life. Her determination to escape the limitations of her birth led her to Jacksonville, where she met her future husband Ramon Highsmith, and to eventual employment with St Luke hospital. She worked in the business office for over 25 years. Jackie and Ramon moved to Jacksonville Beach and lived for many years in the Isle of Palms, where she enjoyed fishing and boating. At retirement, they spent summers in their home near Boone NC and wintered in Fernandina Beach, and later in St Augustine. She is survived by her husband Ramon, her son Rodney (Brenda) and her beloved granddaughter Jessica of West Palm Beach. Aunt Jackie was a friend and mentor to generations of close family including the Turknetts, Jones, Houghs, Shaffers,Jenkins, Conners and many others. Her cooking was legendary and enjoyed by literally hundreds over the years she lived in St Augustine. A celebration of her life will be held for family in St Augustine at the end of this month.