Zelma Ruth Francis

Zelma Ruth Francis was born the first of six children in Nacogdoches, Texas, on April 26, 1935 to Frank & Louella Mathews. She completed most of her formal schooling in Nacogdoches, where she attended school up through tenth grade at E.J. Campbell High School. The family soon moved to La Marque, Texas where she received her diploma from Lincoln High School in 1952.

Zelma married Lonnie Charles Jackson on June 27, 1953. During this union, she gave birth to five beautiful children, was able to attend nursing school, and received her nursing license in June of 1965. She later had another child turning the Jackson 5 into the Jackson 6. She began a long and successful career in the nursing profession. She enjoyed helping those in need and was a positive ray of light for the many patients she served over the years. She was an active member of several nursing organizations and the Chocolate Chip Social and Charity Club. Outside of work, Zelma enjoyed music. Her home was a popular place for many family gatherings and music was often involved. In her spare time, she would DJ under the moniker of Lady Z. Her strong will and spirited personality will be fondly remembered by all those who love her.

Zelma is preceded in death by her parents and three of her siblings, Charles Edward Mathews (1999), Dorothy Jean Lane (2008) and Raymond Earl Mathews (2017). She is survived by two of her siblings, Roy Ellington Mathews (Loretta) of Texas City and Nancy Lynn McKnight of Fort Worth. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Lonnie Terence Jackson (Dewana), Karen Sue Dunlap, Lonnie Charles Jackson, Debra Kay Hughes, Theresa Alain Jackson (Joseph), and Rodrick Jay Jackson (Sharon); fifteen grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The Lord called Zelma home at 5:19 a.m. on Monday, December 18, 2023 at UTMB Health Clear Lake Campus Hospital after 88 years of life. She will be laid to rest alongside her parents and siblings at Forest Park East.

Acknowledgement

The family of Zelma Ruth Francis wishes to express our sincere thanks to all of the relatives, friends, loved ones and caregivers who gave their love, time, and support over the years and during this difficult time. We think of you all as our extended family and in that spirit, hope you will reflect on your fondest memories of Zelma and smile as you think of her.

You all are forever in our prayers.

Final Resting Place

Forest Park East Cemetery

21620 Gulf Freeway

Webster, TX 77598