Kourtenay Shanne’ Jackson, affectionately known as “Nay” or “Nay Nay,” was born on November 28, 1991, in Akron, Ohio to Aaron and Danita Jackson. She was the youngest of three children and the only girl -role she carried with grace, strength, and love. Kourtenay was bright, vibrant, intelligent, and deeply loving, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
From an early age, Kourtenay’s personality shined. As a child, she adored her “kyo” (pacifier), loved reading, and could often be found singing. Her academic excellence became evident early on. As a first grader at Wynnton Road Elementary, she received an award for outstanding reading and was proudly featured in the newspaper. While attending Rigdon Road Elementary School, she won the spelling bee and represented her school with confidence and poise. She later attended East Columbus Magnet Academy and went on to become an IB and honors student at Hardaway High School, graduating in 2010.
Following graduation, Kourtenay began working at Subway while attending Columbus Technical College, where she studied cosmetology. Her strong work ethic, determination, and natural leadership abilities led her to rise to the position of Assistant Manager at Subway. She especially cherished her time working alongside Mrs. Jackie and Mrs. Janice. Later, she joined the Publix family at the Macon Road location in the deli, where she truly enjoyed her work and built meaningful relationships with her coworkers.
Although Kourtenay did not have children of her own, her love for her family knew no bounds. She adored her nieces and nephews and poured into them wholeheartedly. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved pitbull, Leo, who brought her immense joy.
Kourtenay leaves to cherish her memory her loving mother, Danita Jackson of Columbus; her two brothers, Torrian Williams (Tuandra) and Atron Jackson (Malena); her nieces Tyauna Bishop (Rohan), Tavia Williams, Torri Williams of Dallas, TX and Arin Jackson; her nephews Aidan Jackson and Aason Jackson of Columbus, Georgia; her maternal grandfather, Dan Williams (Norma); her aunt Pamela Jackson-Kates (Eddy) of Newark, NJ; aunts Beverly Williams and Ramona Terry; uncle Donald Williams of Columbus, Georgia; aunt Angela Morgan (Darren) of Houston, TX; aunt Victoria Banks (Roderick) of Mansfield, OH ; aunt Monique Eddins of Fayetteville, GA; her sister-cousin Senayit; Emery, Caleb, Terrell, Xavier, Zachary, and Alaisha, affectionately known as “the rat pack”; as well as a host of loving cousins and dear friends including Darius, Gabby, Imani, and Lucky.
She was preceded in death by her father, Aaron Jackson; her paternal grandparents, Atron Jackson and Barbara Jackson; her maternal grandmother, Margaret Williams; and her maternal uncles, Johnathan Williams and Vincent Williams.
Kourtenay’s life, though far too brief, was filled with love, laughter, dedication, and purpose. Her radiant smile, compassionate heart, and unwavering love for her family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.
A celebration of Kourtenay's life will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, located at 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia, 31907. The service is scheduled for February 28, 2026, starting at 2:00 pm.
The event will be available via live stream at https://www.facebook.com/134850700522361.
