Lillian M. Jackson

On Sunday morning April 12, 2020, while at home in Pennsauken and surrounded by her family, Lillian peacefully went to be home with her heavenly Father. Lillian was reunited with her beloved husband of 55 years, William Robert Jackson, who patiently waited 13 years for her homecoming. Lillian was the loving mother of daughter Graceann (Wayne) Stepler of Magnolia and Rhonda (Samuel) Bello of Pennsauken. She was the proud Grandmother of Jessica and Michelle Bello. Lillian is also survived by her younger sister, Anne M. Long of Merchantville, whom she shared such a special bond with her entire life.

Lillian was the 15th of 16 children born to James DiVietro and Grace Carbone DiVietro. Both of her parents came to America from Italy when they were young.  Lillian was born and raised through her early teens in Moorestown. She then lived a short time in Camden until the family relocated to Merchantville.  As a young lady, Lillian, enjoyed dancing at the Merchantville Friday night Sock Hops. Lillian worked at Merchantville’s American Store (Acme) where she met the love of her life. Lillian and Bill were married on 6/9/1951 at Saint Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Merchantville. In 1952, they purchased their first and only home in Pennsauken where Lillian lived for 68 years. 

Lillian loved growing up in a large family. She was predeceased by her sisters Mary (Pat) Marino, Margaret (John) Roccia and Rose and brothers Lawrence (Louise), Joseph (Edna/Laura), James (Ann), Frank (Theresa), Rocco, John (Connie).

Lillian also enjoyed sharing time with her husband’s family. She is survived by her husband’s sister Anna (Elzie) Unroe. She was predeceased by her in-laws Philip and Florence (McFarland) Jackson, who both came to America from Ireland. She was also predeceased by her husband’s sisters Florence (Gilbert) Lenher and Mary (Alfred) Gerhardt and brother’s Philip (Elizabeth) and Samuel Thomas (Ruth/Helen/Frieda)

Lillian is survived by many nieces and nephews and was predeceased by her nephew/Godson Clayton Long.

Lillian was a devoted mother and grandmother who was supportive and actively involved with both her daughters’ and granddaughters’ school, church, scouting, dance and sports activities. Lillian was a Room Mother, Volunteer School Librarian, PTA President, Apache Band Booster Parent, Bible School Teacher, Youth Group Advisor, Girl Scout Leader. Her favorite job for many years, was babysitting her granddaughters and helping to influence their lives in so many ways.

Lillian was recognized by the Township of Pennsauken for the volunteer work she had done. Lillian was a volunteer at Cherry Hill Hospital, Coordinator of Helping Hands, member and Treasurer of the Pennsauken Burrough-Dover Historical Society, member of the Pennsauken Young at Heart Club, member of the Pennsauken AARP Chapter and the AARP Chords travel choir.

Lillian was a longtime member of Saint Cecilia Roman Catholic Church and was also involved at her husband’s church Calvary Community Baptist Church. Sadly, due to the current COVID-19 Pandemic Virus, Lillian’s funeral services will be held privately but will be recorded and attached to the end of her photo memorial.

Lillian will be remembered by many as Mrs. J, who had an open door policy and  was always willing to set another plate at the table for not only family members but also for the scouts, the youth group and even became a substation for many of the EMS/Paramedic crews.

Mom & Grandmom we miss you and you will never be forgotten. We thank you for all that you did for us, your support, your dedication and most of all your unconditional love. We will hold all our memories that we shared with you close in our hearts. You will be remembered for your willingness in helping others, your generosity, your kindness, your Christian faith, your love for your family and most of all your beautiful smile.

All Our Love

Your Family

*A recording of her funeral service is included at the end of the tribute video below*

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