Deborah A. Jackson

Deborah A. Jackson, 77, passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 31, 2024, after a battle with Alzheimer's disease. Born October 11, 1947, in Mattoon, Illinois, Debbie lived life as a beautiful adventure, traveling across the country and brightening each place she called home. With an untamable spirit, infectious laugh, and a middle finger always at the ready, she made life better for everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Life's challenges never dimmed Debbie's light. Unable to have biological children, she and Jerry, her devoted husband of 56 years, created their family through love instead of blood, adopting Lorie, Mark, and Sharon. Her family grew to include grandchildren Cameron, Reagan, and Jacob, each one blessed by her boundless affection and unforgettable spirit.

Debbie refused to act her age, approaching each day with a mischievous gleam in her eye and an uncanny ability to find silver linings in the darkest clouds. Her kitchen table was the heart of her home, where love took the form of scratch-made meals and baked goods, served with a side of sass and endless laughter. Her hands were rarely still, creating beautiful memories through her cooking and sewing, but her greatest gift was making everyone feel truly seen, accepted, and loved exactly as they were.

Her sister and best friend Darla shared a lifetime of adventures and uncontrollable giggles with Debbie, whose genuine soul touched everyone she met. Even as Alzheimer's progressed, her bright smile and loving nature remained unchanged, proving that some lights are simply too bright to dim.

The evening before her passing, Debbie's family gathered for an intimate bedside service with their pastor, Mike Mallory. She is survived by her husband, Jerry Jackson; children Lorie Grefski, Mark Jackson (Katie), and Sharon Hillis (Matt); grandchildren Cameron, Regan, and Jacob; and sister Darla Sabens (Steve). She was preceded in death by her parents, Bob and Anna Decker.

Arrangements by Watson Funeral Chapel, 2590 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson, MI 49203.

Please express your condolences to the family at www.watson-funeral-chapels.com.

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