On December 11, 2005, our precious jewel "Debbie" was ushered into the presence of God. "Debbie" came as a blessing to Viola and Odell Jackson on February 10, 1955 in Ossining, New York. She was the eldest of two daughters.

"Debbie" was the daughter of deeply religious parents whose love and faith in the Lord influenced her greatly. She was an active member at Mt. Lebanon Baptist Church of Peekskil, New York and New Psalmist Baptist Church of Baltimore, Maryland. Filled with faith and knowledge of the word, she continuously offered words of comfort and encouragement to all that were in need.

"Debbie" grew up in a very loving, close-knit family with her sister, Lisa. "Debbie" was educated in the Peekskill public School System. She graduated from Peekskill high School in 1973. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Stony' Brook University in 1977 and a Masters of Social Work from Howard University, School of Social Work in 1979.

"Debbie" was always admired for her diligent work ethic. She was employed by the Veteran's Administration and the Department of Housing and Urban Development for twenty plus years.

"Debbie" was very civic-minded as displayed by her commitment to various organizations. She held numerous local and national offices in Blacks In Government and the Association of Black Social Workers. She was the advisor of the Children's Ministry, member of the Senior Female Usher Board and PUSH. (Praying Until Something Happens). "Debbie" as also the "Queen Mother" of the Sibanyc Chapter (Red Hat Society).

"Debbie" was a unique and exceptional person. Everyday was planned to the fullest. She was a sister that always lent a helping hand, a sister that was always there and friend who was strong at heart. She was all that you could ever ask for' in a wonderful woman.

"Debbie" will be sorely missed by all those who knew and loved her. Her smile, hugs and special greeting to friends and family will no longer be a part of our day to day reality. however, the legacy of love and happy memories that she created will remain in our hearts forever.

We thank God for the life of Debbie R. Jackson and the wonderful blessing she was and still is, to all of us.

She leaves to cherish her most precious memory: her parents, Viola and Odell Jackson; her sister, Lisa O. Jackson; two nephews, Robert O. Jackson and Ajani W Jackson-Clair; Godparents, Reverend and Mrs. Floyd Warren; special friend, James Brown; and a host of other relatives and friends. She will be especially missed by her longtime friends, Iris Phillips-Pulliam, Chandois Phillips, Diane Ritter, Cynthia Nelson-Dennis, Carrie Brown, Amber Wooding and Marina Gethers.