Gaye Feuer

Born Gary Avery Jackson on February 17, 1938, in Newport News, Virginia, to Jesse Atwater Jackson and Alberta Gary Jackson, Gaye was delivered by her grandfather, Dr. Benjamin Roscoe Gary, who also delivered her siblings. The family moved to Pensacola, Florida, when Gaye was six and later settled in Jacksonville when she was thirteen.

Gaye attended Florida State University, earning a B.A. in American Studies. While there, her love of dance led her to participate in the FSU circus, performing grounded stunts. After graduating, she moved to New York City, where she met the love of her life, Norbert Feuer, at a dance class. They married in 1966, and Gaye converted to Judaism. Gaye worked for many years as a copywriter and office manager for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) in New York City.

In 1980, Gaye and Norbert retired to Jacksonville, purchasing a home on Lake Lucina, close to her parents. Together, they were passionate square dancers, avid gardeners, and enthusiastic travelers, exploring both the United States and countries abroad.

Following her return to Jacksonville, Gaye became deeply engaged in her community. She was an active member of the Lake Lucina Association, working with fellow homeowners and public agencies to preserve the health of the lake and its freshwater springs. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels and for the local Jewish community center library. Her commitment to service extended beyond her neighborhood. Gaye volunteered with the Jacksonville chapter of the United Nations Association, reflecting her passion for global understanding and local action.

Norbert passed away in 2005, and while Gaye never remarried, she found love again in 2014 with Ron Senior, whom she met through square dancing. They shared ten joyful years filled with travel, dance, and companionship. Ron cared for Gaye with unwavering dedication until her final day.

Gaye is survived by her brother, Jesse Jackson, and eleven nieces and nephews — six from her immediate family and five through Norbert’s family — as well as several grand-nieces and grand-nephews. She is predeceased by her sister, Alberta Espie.

Gaye will be remembered as a loving wife, sister, partner, and friend. Her empathy, kindness and dedication to others left an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to know her.