Amelia Y. Jackson

Amelia Yvonne Jackson was born on February 4, 1931, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Sultan and Jannie Savage. Affectionately nicknamed “Tug”, Amelia grew up in a large, close-knit family alongside her three brothers—Leroy, Rosco, and James—and her two sisters, Sadie and Bessie. The roots of the Savage family ran deep in Memphis, and their branches would eventually stretch across the country, but family always remained at the heart of who Amelia was.

In 1956, Amelia married Eugene Jackson Jr. in Memphis, following his freshman year at Howard University. The young couple began their life together in Washington, D.C. while Eugene completed his studies. In September 1959, they set out for a new chapter in Denver, Colorado, building their home and their dreams side by side.

After nearly a decade in Denver, Eugene accepted a position with the U. S. Department of Transportation in 1968, prompting a move back to Washington, D.C. The family later settled in Silver Spring, where they planted lasting roots. It was there that Amelia devoted herself fully to raising their two children, Mark Anthony and Lisa Ann. Articulate, intelligent, and determined, she instilled in them the value of education and the importance of character. She believed in “tough love” and often reminded them, “It’s okay to have nice things—but don’t be a showoff.” Responsibility, humility, and respect were non-negotiable lessons in her home.

Once her children were older, Amelia reentered the workforce as the Manager of Housekeeping at the Ramada Inn in Silver Spring, Maryland, where she was employed for eight years. She quickly became a favorite among the staff as she was known as a steady, trusted leader and the person everyone turned to when problems needed solving.

In 1986, Amelia began yet another meaningful chapter by opening a daycare in her home caring for up to six children ranging in age from infants to six years old. She lovingly cared for the children and taught the alphabet, arithmetic, shoe tying and potty training, Amelia prepared her little ones for school and for life. Parents spoke highly of her dedication, patience, and warmth. She continued her daycare until 1994, later turning her loving attention to her own grandchildren, Lauren and Amber.

Amelia was also deeply creative and artistic. She had an eye for beauty and a love for art and scripture. She painted and crafted stunning peacock designs adorned with rhinestones, each piece a reflection of her vibrant spirit. Music filled her home as naturally as sunlight. She sang everything from Aretha Franklin classics to Chuck Brown’s “Bustin’ Loose,” her voice carrying joy from room to room. On a few special occasions, she even performed at a jazz club alongside Eugene and friends. Her love of singing and dancing continued later in life at the Riderwood community, where her lively spirit remained unmistakable.

When asked for a favorite memory, Jerry, her nephew shared, “Seeing her smile as she told me things. She always said to me, ‘I LOVE YOU’. He also remembered how she would cut hedges and work in the yard on the hottest days, somehow appearing to enjoy every minute of it. The Jackson family yard was one of the most admired in the neighborhood—and that was all Amelia.

Above all, Amelia was a woman of deep faith. She believed wholeheartedly in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, and reminded her family often to keep God at the center of their lives. Her most consistent refrain—“I LOVE YOU”—was more than a phrase. It was her legacy.

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Amelia Yvonne Jackson passed peacefully at Riderwood Village’s Arbor Ridge at the age of 95.

She leaves to cherish in her memory her children, Mark Anthony and Lisa Ann; her daughter-in-law, Bonnie; her grandchildren, Aja, Alya, Amber, Lauren, Orion, and Tarrus; and her great-granddaughters, Jaesei, and Emarosa, along with a host of extended family and friends who will forever carry her love in their hearts.