Daphne Dixie Nichols Jackson

Daphne D. Jackson nee Nichols was born February 25, 1918 in Eldorado, Oklahoma to Thomas J. and Ada W. Nichols. She lived her early life in Eldorado, graduating High School and then leaving to attend the University of Oklahoma. There she attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Education while enjoying an active social life which included singing (one of her life-long interests) in a ladies’ quartet. She returned to Eldorado, where on September 21, 1940 she was joined in marriage to Earl Jackson of nearby Quanah, Texas, and thus started a union which lasted some 67 years until Earl’s passing in 2007.

Daphne’s passion in life, besides her family, was education. She was a highly respected teacher in the O’Fallon, Illinois school system, counting amongst her many accomplishments being chosen an “Outstanding Teacher of America” in 1974. When the family moved to Texas in 1978, she resumed her career with the Kingwood schools in the Humble school district. She was a “Charter Member” of the Delta Kappa Gamma Educational Honor Society in Kingwood and remained a member for 43 years until her death. Daphne’s focus was always “her children”, and this led to several of her former students staying in contact with her through the years. One of her greatest joys was observing her commitment to children blossom in her granddaughter, Carrie, who is now an award winning teacher herself. Upon retirement, Daphne became one of the most highly sought substitute teachers in Kingwood, working almost full time.

Earl and Daphne enjoyed many happy years in Kingwood, developing life-long friendships they cherished through the end of their lives. Due to failing health, they moved to the Terrace in First Colony, where Earl passed in 2007. Earl and Daphne’s many friendships amongst the residents helped Daphne cope with her loss. Her final years were spent in the company of caretaker and loving friend, Marcia Charles. Marcia’s contributions to her comfort and well-being can neither be overstated, nor repaid. Daphne’s final months, and especially her final days, were enriched by the constant and tireless attention of her daughter-in-law, Peggy Jackson. Between Peggy and Marcia, Daphne never missed an appointment or test, and she received the best and most loving care possible prior to her passing.

Daphne is survived by son Steve Jackson, his wife Peggy, grandson, Bryan Jackson, his wife Leanne, granddaughter Carrie Nesmith, and her husband Trey.

The family is asking that memorial contributions be made to the Fort Bend Education Foundation, 16431 Lexington Boulevard, Sugar Land, TX 77479