Deanna "Lori" Jackson

Deanna "Lori" Jackson passed away peacefully at home on August 29, 2025. She was born in Lewistown, PA, on May 6, 1950, to the late Forrest W. and Marion L. Doebler. She is also preceded in death by her first husband, Doug Jackson, and her second husband, Anthony Cesare. Lori's career was spent as a librarian for the Phoenixville School District, where her love of books and learning touched countless lives. But her impact extended far beyond her career. Lori loved to travel and delighted in exploring new places with her trademark zest for life. She had a lifelong love of animals and shared her home with many beloved dogs through the years. Pugs, in particular, held a special place in her heart, and her last pug, Gracie, was a devoted companion who brought her great comfort after the loss of her first husband, Doug, until she later met Anthony. Her life was rich with friendships, community, and creativity. As her dear friend Nia shared, "Lori didn't just 'show up'-she contributed and always made a difference. Some people offer to help because they are polite, but Lori always meant it. She seized opportunities, committed to doing her very best, and she never disappointed." She lived this truth through countless organizations: the Halford Civic Association and Garden Club, the Norristown Garden Club, and Questors. Whether organizing a neighborhood cookbook, hosting a holiday house tour, or carefully tending to her responsibilities as treasurer, Lori infused every task with thought, grace, and flourish. She also gave her time generously to the Suburban Hospital gift shop, where she helped build one of the most welcoming shops in the Philadelphia area. She was active with the Norristown Public Library, reflecting her lifelong love of books and learning. She even volunteered at the Philadelphia Flower Show, combining her love of beauty and service. Faith was at the center of Lori's life. Lower Providence Presbyterian Church was not only her church home as an adult, but also the church of her childhood. Over the years she served faithfully on the Preschool Board of Directors, was part of the Circle of Faith, and found fellowship in the Lunch Bunch widows' group. Her craft-crocheting-became a ministry of love, as she made prayer shawls for church members experiencing hardship. Lori was also a longtime member of a women's knitting and crocheting group, where she and friends gathered weekly to make hats and scarves for underprivileged children in the Norristown Area School District who may not have access to warm clothing. Beyond this, she crocheted countless preemie hats on her own, quietly donating them to the hospital as a way of offering comfort to families and their tiniest loved ones. Through every season of life, even in the face of health challenges, Lori found ways to keep going, keep giving, and keep inspiring. Her resilience, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her. Above all, Lori treasured family. She often said that the greatest gift her husband Anthony ever gave her was his children, Anthony P. (Jessica) and Danielle M. Cesare. From the beginning, she loved them as if they were her own, and over the years their bond grew into something truly special. That love was deeply returned, and Anthony, Jessica and Danielle will forever carry her in their hearts. She was also blessed to be "Lori" to five grandchildren-Jackson, Isabella, Chloe, Charlee, and Quincy-who adored her in return and will carry her memory with them always. Lori's life was one of love, service, and joy-a life well lived and a legacy that will continue in the lives of all who were blessed to know her. Those who wish to honor her may do so by sending flowers in her memory or by making a donation to Lower Providence Presbyterian Church, a place that held her heart from childhood through her final days. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather for her viewing on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 10–11 a.m., followed by a service of celebration at 11 a.m. at Lower Providence Presbyterian Church, 3050 Ridge Pike, Eagleville, PA. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Szpindor-Meyers Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared by visiting www.meyersfh.com.