Orpah Lee Jackson

Orpah Lee Jackson peacefully departed this life on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the remarkable age of 105. Born on June 15, 1920, in Lumpkin, Georgia, she was the beloved daughter of Emerson Clinton and Ardella Dandy Jackson.

At the age of six, Orpah moved with her family to East Mayport, Florida, the place she would lovingly call home for nearly a century. Her deep roots and lasting presence in the community left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Orpah was united in marriage to the late Leroy H. Jackson. She was a devoted sister to her late brother, Joseph C. Jackson, Sr., and a cherished matriarch to her extended family and friends.

A devoted educator and lifelong learner, Orpah Lee attended Cornell University, where she earned her master’s degree. She dedicated an extraordinary 55 years to shaping young minds, serving as both a full-time and substitute teacher at Seabreeze Elementary, Atlantic Beach Elementary, and Neptune Beach Elementary. Her passion for education and unwavering commitment to her students left an indelible mark on generations of families.

Beyond the classroom, Orpah Lee was an active and cherished member of her community. She gave her time and heart to several civic and social organizations, including the Lily-White Society, the Order of the Eastern Star, Church Women United, where she worked with Meals on Wheels, delivering food and friendship to seniors in need, and the Rhoda L. Martin Cultural Heritage Center. Her life’s work was deeply rooted in service, education, and cultural preservation.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and strength, cherished by her family and all who knew her. She is survived by her beloved sister-cousin, Ida Lee Weech; her devoted daughter, Eleah Daniels (formerly Delora J. Daniels); and her loving son-in-law, Reginald D. Daniels. Her memory lives on through her grandchildren: Tpring Daniels, and Jhamari Johnson and husband Devon Johnson; great-grandchildren: Avierra Johnson, Trinity Johnson, Spencer Watts, Jaelon Smotherman, Devon Johnson Jr., and Judiyah Johnson; and great-great-grandchildren: Leia Gordon, Chavayah Maxwell, Ivri Maxwell, and Chai Maxwell.

She is also lovingly remembered by her nephews, Dr. Joseph “Butch” Jackson, Jr. and his wife Monique Jackson, and Emerson D. Jackson and his late wife Judith Jackson; great-nephews: Dr. Jaih Jackson and his wife Attorney Kimberly Jackson, and Evan Jackson; great-great-nieces: Jordan “Chloe” Jackson and Emerson L. Jackson; along with many dear kinfolk and lifelong friends.

Her final words to her family and friends were filled with peace, love, and faith:

I am at rest, so don’t cry. I have no worries, pain, or fear. It will be easy as time goes by. In this life, I’ve done my best. God has called me home—all is well. I love you all. Put God first in your life and I’ll be seeing you. Prepare yourself, for someday you’ll follow me. See you later, my family and friends!

Funeral services and interment have been entrusted to the National Cremation & Burial Society.