Sara Jeane Jackson
Sara Jeane Jackson passed away peacefully at the age of 98 in Charlotte, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness and community involvement. Sara was born on December 28, 1926, at home on her family farm to Burr and Marjorie (Badger) Miller. She embraced the responsibilities of farm life helping with chores and contributing to her family’s well-being.
A proud, hardworking, and kind-hearted woman, Sara’s life was a radiant tapestry of joyful moments and achievements. She embodied the American Dream. After graduating from Battle Creek Central High School, she began working at Percy Jones Military Medical Hospital in the office. Fate smiled upon her when a young soldier, Martin Jackson, spotted her and declared he would marry her someday. True to his word, they were married April 26, 1947, beginning a beautiful journey together that would result in them celebrating 75 years of marriage.
While raising a family of five, Sara continued working outside the home becoming the head cook at Pennfield Middle School, where she planned menus and cooked homemade meals from scratch to the delight of both students and staff. Sara and Martin were a dynamic team working tirelessly to make their dreams come true. One of their proudest achievements was purchasing Char-Lanes bowling alley in 1982, transforming it into a cherished gathering place for the community. Sara became an integral part of the local business community, with her unwavering commitment.
Sara volunteered with the Charlotte Women’s Club (GFWC) and delivered meals on wheels to those in need. She was a member of the VFW Women’s Auxiliary, the Charlotte Senior Center, and the First Congregational Church. Her generosity and compassion touched countless lives, reflecting her belief in giving back and supporting others.
With a flair for arts and crafts, Sara stayed ahead of the latest trends. She enjoyed crocheting and creating porcelain dolls, which she lovingly made for family and donated to charitable causes. Her competitive spirit was evident in her love for playing games. She was an avid bowler and was always ready for Uno, dice, Skip-Bo, Euchre, and her nightly puzzle solving Wheel of Fortune.
She supported her children and grandchildren at their sporting events, cheering them on. Sara found joy in the simple, yet beautiful moments in life. Tending to the flowers in her garden and watching the birds gather at her numerous feeders. Sara cherished traveling the world making memorable trips to Hawaii, Germany, Ireland, and Japan. Always ready for the next adventure she brought joy wherever she went.
Sara’s life was a beautiful journey filled with love, family, kindness and selflessness. As we celebrate her remarkable life, we hold dear the happy memories and the legacy she leaves behind. Her vibrant spirit and generous heart will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know and love her. Rest in Peace Sara, you will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Sara is survived by her children, Phillip Jackson and David Jackson, both of Charlotte, MI and Sue-Ann Johnson of Eaton Rapids, MI; 11 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; sister-in-law, Hazel Miller; brother-in-law, Kenneth Jackson; and many nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Martin Jackson; son, Gary Lee Jackson; and daughter, Phyllis Jeane Burcham. A special heartfelt thank you to Teresa who bonded with mom in friendship, love, compassion, laughter, and pranks.
Friends are encouraged to support Sara’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Tuesday, February 4, 2025, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Wednesday, February 5, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Congregational Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.