Opal Lee Jackson

We are so grateful that she had such a long life surrounded by her loving family. Opal celebrated her 90th birthday in August. She was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Vaughn Jackson. She is survived by her four children - Sherry (Dave), Jeff, Rod and Kathy (Wally) - five grandchildren - Dan (Kelley), Christie (Shawn), Frank (Beverly), Ben (Toni) and Sam. She is also survived by her wonderful great grandchildren - Jill (Collin), Brittany, Lexie, Zach, Kala, Casey, Ben Jr., and Laney. We were so much hoping that she would get to meet her expected great-great granddaughter.

Opal Lee was born August 17, 1922, the 9th of 10 children. She was the last surviving sibling. Born and raised on a Missouri farm, she grew up during the depression era. Opal was the only one in her family to graduate from the 8th grade. She, her younger sister and parents moved to Southern California when Opal was a teen. Her parents did not adjust well to California life and moved back to Missouri. Opal moved further south to San Diego to live with her older sisters. There she supported the WWII war effort by sewing parachutes, and she met the love of her life Vaughn Lee Jackson. He was a tall, dark and handsome sailor who fell in love with her big blue eyes. They spent as much time as they could together when Vaughn was in port, but much of their relationship was conducted through letters due to the war. Vaughn asked Opal to meet him in Seattle to tie the knot in the "Little Church by the Side of the Road". Thus began Opal's traveling days as a Navy wife. Vaughn and Opal traveled all over the United States and to two foreign countries, Italy and Japan. During that time, their four children were born and Vaughn made a career switch to the Army in order to spend more time with the family. Opal's passion was her family. She loved having the whole family over for holiday celebrations and always decorated her home beautifully. Opal was a good cook. She loved her big back yard and over the years planted many flowers and shrubs. During the warm months, she loved to sit on the patio, have her morning coffee and enjoy the flowers. Opal loved to go to garage sales where she found many treasures. She greatly enjoyed trips to Reno where she was always incredibly lucky playing the slot machines. Yahtzee was her favorite game, although she also enjoyed dominoes and card games.

We will miss Opal’s physical presence going forward in our daily lives, but gain comfort knowing that she will live in our hearts forever.