Jimmie Jay Jackson

January 7, 1945 - October 3, 2026

Jimmie Jay "JJ" Jackson, 81, of Beaumont, Texas, passed away on October 3, 2026. She was born on January 7, 1945, in Houston, Texas, to Beatrice "Noonie" Rae Schornstein Utitz and James Jay Utitz.

JJ graduated from Beaumont High School in 1963. She went on to the University of Oklahoma. Graduating in 1967 with a degree in Education. That same year, she married Bruce Weaver Jackson.

JJ was a longtime English as a Second Language teacher with the Beaumont Independent School District, where she helped students find their voices and their footing in a new language. She was also a partner in Educational Services Links, where she guided students through the college application process and taught SAT and ACT prep. She was a devoted member of the Junior League of Beaumont and past school board president of All Saints Episcopal School.

JJ had a spitfire personality and an even bigger heart. She loved to shop, and she loved dogs more than anything else. She was famously thoughtful: she sent cards for every occasion, and on the Sunday before each friend's birthday, she would announce the start of their "Happy Birthday Week" on Facebook. Those who knew her will remember being celebrated by her and will carry that warmth with them.

She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and too many beloved pets to name, though she fondly remembered Daisy.

She is survived by her daughter, Amy Jay Jackson of Beaumont; her son, Bruce Maxwell Jackson II, and his wife, Katrina Marie Jackson (née Winterboer), of League City; and her grandchildren, Matilda Rene Jackson and Matthew James Jackson. She is also survived by her step-brother, David Vallee. And of course, her favorite corgi, Lilly.

Interment will be a private family service. A memorial service will be held at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 680 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77701, on Saturday, November 14th at 10:00 AM

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Southeast Texas, 2050 Spindletop Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77705, or to the St. Mark's Episcopal Church Memorial Fund, 680 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, Texas 77701.