Mrs Kay Jackson

MRS Kay Jackson, of Inishmore, Killyleagh, who passed away peacefully on August 22, was a much loved and highly popular member of her community and will be sorely missed. She was 77.

A Killyleagh woman to her fingertips, she spent her entire life in the town, contentedly at ease with her familiar surroundings, her beloved family and her many friends.

She was a kind, thoughtful and considerate lady with a tremendous capacity for hard work, a trait which she had demonstrated from an early age. After her education she worked in the office at Killyleagh Mill and, later, at the Downshire Hospital for 23 years before retiring.

In July 1961, she married Rob, who was the love of her life. The couple were blessed with two children, Jim and Vilma, and Mrs Jackson became a wonderful homemaker, enjoying cooking, sewing and knitting. She also enjoyed gardening and playing badminton with Rob.

In time she became a grandmother and took great delight in the achievements of her grandchildren, who adored her.

She had strong Christian beliefs and was a faithful member of Second Killyleagh Presbyterian Church. The death of Rob four years ago was a terrible blow, but with the support of the church she kept up her spirits and continued to be a rock for her family.

She remained vibrant and full of life until she suffered a fall earlier this year which resulted in complications.

The respect and affection in which Mrs Jackson was held was reflected in the large attendance at her funeral service in Second Killyleagh on Saturday, August 27, when a touching tribute was made by Miss Zena McAllister, a lifelong friend from her childhood.

The Rev Hiram Higgins, church minister, said he gave thanks to God for “someone who touched all our lives.”

The sympathy of the community is extended to her children, Jim and Vilma, and grandchildren Leanne, Zoe and Ross.