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Ethel Jackson Obituary

Ethel May Harris Jackson, 87, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Born on June 15, 1938, to the late James Lee and Millie Harris, Ethel was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Jackson Jr., and her son, Roskar (Junnie) Epps Jr. Ethel leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and culinary excellence.

Ethel was educated in the Norfolk Public School System. She went on to cultivate a deep passion for cooking. As a professional chef, she lent her talents to several esteemed restaurants, including the Carriage House, Lone Pine, and the Wainwright. She also worked as a private chef, where she was known for her signature "meal in a minute with a chef's touch. "Ethel's culinary creations were not just about food; they were about hospitality, and she loved bringing family, friends, and church members together for a meal and fellowship. Her home was a place where laughter and love filled the air, and her warmth was felt by all who knew her.

Ethel joined Enoch Baptist Church in the early 1990s under the leadership of Dr. Michael G. Daniels. She faithfully served on the Pastor's Aide Committee and was a cherished member of the Golden Pioneers. She remained an active and dedicated member of the church community throughout her life.

Her devotion to family, friends, and her church will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Ethel's memory will live in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, love, and generosity.

Ethel leaves behind her five loving daughters: Debra Tatum (Eric), Cynthia Austin (Matthew), Jacqueline Rice (Tony), Pamela Epps (Kelly), Renee Sandifer (Anthony), and one son, Darryl Epps (Angela). She is also survived by twelve grandchildren, Orlando (Darnell) Epps, Sr., Iran Epps, Charity Epps, Marica Smith, Mytina Wilson, Ivory Powell, Stephen Williams, Joseph Epps, Nicole King, Aniya Epps, Zahra Sandifer, and Gabrielle Sandifer; fourteen great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and a host of relatives and friends.

Ethel Mae Jackson's legacy of love and hospitality will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate to know her. She's now sleeping in the bosom of Abraham. May she rest in eternal peace.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Obituary published on Legacy.com by WFSB on Sep. 16, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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Evg. Carolyn Cowans

September 27, 2025

Rev. Arthur & Evang. Carolyn Cowans send our deepest sympathy to Sister Jacie Rice/husband Elder Tony Rice & family in the loss of her mother. We adored meeting your mother and how she loved my comfortable shoes. May you be comforted and strengthened with peace from GOD. Your Mom was truly a fine example of what having family means. We love you and send up prayers for you at this difficult time.

Elder/Evangelist Carolyn Cowans

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Metropolitan Funeral Service

7246 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA

Sep

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Celebration of Life

11:00 a.m.

Enoch Baptist Church

5641 Herbert Moore Road, Virginia Beach, VA

Funeral services provided by:

Metropolitan Funeral Service - Granby Chapel

7246 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23505

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