June 23, 2024, 96, Selma —

Mary Elizabeth Watkins Jackson, 96, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2024. Born and raised in Johnston County, she was the daughter of the late Elisha Watkins and Celeste Minshew Watkins.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Jackson; son, Mickey Jackson; brothers, Harold Watkins, Ralph Watkins, and Ray Watkins; and sisters, Mildred Narron, Myrtle Fleck, Lillian Narron, and Doris Collier.

Mary is survived by her children, Donna E. Jackson (Fred) and Steve Jackson (Hope); and grandchildren, Phillip Jackson (Dana), Corkey Jackson (Tammy), and Lee Jackson (Janet). Mary is also survived by many great-grandchildren that she loved dearly.

Mary was her happiest when working. Not one with idle hands, she loved nothing more than being outdoors cutting her grass or working with her flowers. For over 17 years, Mary worked at Kenly Medical Associates with Dr. Woodall. She loved the doctor’s office, interacting with the patients, and being able to keep up with all the happenings in Kenly.

A graveside service to celebrate Mary’s life will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the Jackson Cemetery 2788 Piney Grove Church Road Kenly, NC 27542. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to Paralyzed Veterans of America, 1875 Eye St NW, Suite 1100 Washington, DC 20006 in memory of Mary.

Services have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.

To leave an online condolence, please visit www.kenlyfs.com.