Betty graduated from Hampton High School in 1945. While in high school, she met the true love of her life, Harold Jackson, who she married on December 28, 1946. Following several years of working at Fort Monroe, Betty joined her mother and aunt in their Phoebus dress shop, Gammon's, which was originally a milliner's shop owned by Betty's grandmother. In the early 1950's, Betty purchased the dress shop, operating it until 1958.

Betty was a life-long member of Phoebus Baptist Church and opened their home to host many children and adult Sunday School activities and meetings. In addition, Betty and Harold hosted a bible study group in their home for many years, impacting others' lives in a close, personal way. Also, Betty was passionate about literacy and tutored adults in reading through the Peninsula Literacy Council. Furthermore, she volunteered for many years with the Hampton Chapter of the American Red Cross, National Kidney Foundation, and March of Dimes.

Betty was dedicated to her family and loved them more than life itself. Betty leaves a legacy of strength, perseverance, commitment, and resilience which is an inheritance that will last for generations to come.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Harold, and their son Harold Green Jackson, Jr.; her parents Ross Morris, Sr. and Elizabeth Selby; and her brother Ross Morris Selby, Jr. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Steven Gammon Jackson (Peggy); Cynthia Jackson Bruger (Steve); Mary Elizabeth Jackson Derrick (Bob); R. Mark Jackson (Shannon); and Michael Andrew Jackson (Lynda). Also, Betty leaves seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. The family takes comfort knowing Betty is in heaven with her husband, Harold; their beloved son, Little Hal; and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Meneshia Mobley and Carolyn Vinson. These precious women cared for Betty with deep love, devotion, and respect during the last years of her life.

The family will receive friends and family on Tuesday, May 22, 2018 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Restoration Church – Phoebus Baptist, 508 Fox Hill Road in Hampton. The funeral service will be held at the church at 11:00 AM, immediately followed by a lunch reception. Interment will be at 2:00 PM in Oakland Cemetery.

View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

Arrangements by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.