Evelyn F Jackson

Evelyn (Miller) Jackson was born January 4, 1921 in Ellis, Nebraska to Orion and Sylvia (Thompson) Miller. She died February 26, 2017 at Gardenside Long Term Care in Fairbury, Nebraska.

Her formal education began at West Ward School in Fairbury and continued through to her graduation with Fairbury High School Class of 1939. She was one of three cheerleaders at FHS, and continued to cheer for the Jeffs and the Huskers the rest of her life.

Other important activities in her youth were being the youngest member of the only Girl Scout troop in Fairbury and being the catcher on the girls softball team called “The Fillies”.

After graduation she worked at the Hested Store, where she worked with her future husband Bob Jackson. They also attended the same youth group at the First Baptist Church of Fairbury. Bob and Evelyn were married August 29, 1942, and celebrated 65 years of marriage before Bob passed away.

Evelyn and Bob had two daughters; Pam, deceased in 1946 and Pat. Evelyn devoted her time to being a homemaker and was involved in many activities of her church. She served as the Girl Scout camp director at Camp Jefferson. She was a member of Vasthi Chapter of Eastern Star, serving as Worthy Matron.

Later in life she worked at the J. C. Penney store, Dr. Ackerman’s office, and as a teacher’s aide.

She and Bob enjoyed many trips in their motor home, and often included their grandsons. Saturdays in the fall would find them at Memorial Stadium. When daughter Pat wanted a fall wedding, Evelyn’s comment was “you can get married before the first game or wait until football season is over”.

Evelyn was preceded in death: by her parents, husband, and daughter Pam, father and mother-in-law Paul & Lydia Jackson, brothers Russell and Charlie Miller, sisters-in-law Lillian Miller, Alma Miller, Mae Miller and Leona Jackson, and nephew Stanley Miller.

Surviving include: Daughter Pat Riggins (Alan), Grandsons Sam Riggins (Michelle) and Jake Riggins. Grandchildren Peyton Stefkovich, Calvin Riggins, and Olive Riggins, all of Lincoln, Nebraska. Brother-in-law Harley Jackson of Beatrice. Nieces: Rowena Cowles, Marcia (Chuck) Carlson, Kathy (Roger) Nichols, Chris (Denny) Henrichs. Cousins and other family members and friends.

Services will be conducted at the First Baptist Church of Fairbury, Nebraska on Saturday, March 4th, 2017 at 11:00 AM. Private committal at a later date. Memorials to First Baptist Church, Fairbury and Camp Jefferson. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.