Wanda Joyce Jackson

She was born at home in Oklahoma near the small town of Ringling in 1930. Her mother was Lula Mae Dougherty and her father was Kern Albert Dougherty. Wanda had a younger sister, Polly Ann.

Wanda’s family moved to Houston, Texas during World War II. After graduating from San Jacinto High School, Wanda attended Business school. Upon graduation, she joined the Shell Oil Company as an office assistant. While working there, she was featured in the Shell Oil newspaper as a model. That led to her being introduced to her future husband, Milburn Gene Jackson, who recognized her from her newspaper appearances. Gene was from Iowa Park, Texas.

After their marriage, Gene’s career took them to various locations, including Alabama, Delaware, Ohio, and New York, and finally ending up back in Texas in 1991. Wanda had many interests and activities that she enjoyed. She was an excellent cook and loved to entertain in their home. She was also active in bridge clubs, garden clubs and in her church. Her greatest joy was her family.

She was proceeded in death by her husband, M. Gene Jackson (2009) after 59 years of marriage.

She is survived by her four children, Janet Merkel (William); Terry Jackson (Toni); Karen Lisa (Jim); Amy Brown (Phil); eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Saturday at 1 PM, November 18, 2017 at Dutton Funeral Home, Iowa Park, Texas. Graveside services will be held at the Highland Cemetery in Iowa Park. Memorials are suggested to the American Alzheimer’s Association or the Highland Cemetery Association.