Fay Jackson Anderson

Known for her love of family, sports and animals, Fay Jackson Anderson of Raleigh, North Carolina, died at home June 14, 2022. Eleanor Fay Jackson was born June 21, 1934, in Spivey’s Corner, North Carolina to James Kermit and Mabel Williams Jackson. Her athletic prowess manifested early as a star forward on the basketball team at Dunn High School. Fay was an animal lover from an early age, and always had a favorite dog at her side. She moved to Raleigh to attend Peace College, where she was known as a phenom on the basketball team. Upon graduation, she went to work for Dr. Howard Powell at Edenton Street United Methodist Church. It was there, during a church service, she met the love of her life, William Edward Anderson, who was an usher at the time. They were married in 1959, settled in Raleigh and raised two daughters, Nina and Elizabeth.

It was after the birth of Elizabeth that Fay discovered what arguably became the second great love of her life – golf. Tuesdays and Thursdays would find her on the golf course. She competed in and won many tournaments both locally and statewide, winning the Carolina Country Club Championship in 1981 was a highlight. Only recently was she forced to give up the game she loved.

Fay was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother who gave generously of herself to her family and the many organizations she supported. She was President of the Raleigh Jaycettes, the United Methodist Women at Edenton Street Church, and the Women’s Golf Association at the Carolina Country Club.

Supporting her Alma Mater, William Peace University, was a central focus of her life. She served on the Board of Directors, the Board of Visitors, the Foundation Board, and supported Peace through her continued philanthropy. She and Ed created an endowment fund to support students in need. Athletics remained a core focus and each spring she hosted the senior graduating athletes at a dinner. Her remarks varied but always carried the same core message – once you leave here remember to support the institution that supported you. In 2014, she received the highest honor bestowed by the University, an Honorary Doctorate. Ever the sportswoman, her favorite recognition was the naming of the basketball court in her honor in 2017.

Fay was a member of the Carolina Country Club, Cape Fear Country Club, the Surf Club, and the Assembly Club.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Marvel Tart, and her brother Dr. Don Jackson. She is survived by daughters Nina Anderson Cheney of Atlanta, Elizabeth Anderson Purrington (John) of Raleigh, six grandchildren and devoted companion Charlie, her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The family wishes to thank her most special care-giver Valerie Levine.

The family will receive friends at the home of Elizabeth and John Purrington June 20 from 5-7pm. The service for Mrs. Anderson will be held June 21 at 2:00pm in the Dinwiddie Chapel at William Peace University. A reception will follow on the Fay Jackson Anderson basketball court.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to The Ed and Fay Anderson Athletic Endowment Fund at William Peace University, 15 East Peace Street, Raleigh, NC 27604, or First Presbyterian Church, 112 South Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27601, or a charity of one's choice.

Services arrangements are being handled by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St. Raleigh, NC.