Carolyn Jackson

Carolyn Marie Sayer Jackson, passed away on January 26, 2025, in Fairview, N.C. She was a resident of Asheville, N.C. 

 Carolyn was born in Lavonia, Ga., on March 25, 1934, to parents: Felton and Thelma Sayer of Lavonia, Ga. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Vivian Coman of Canton, N.C., and brother, Dan Sayer of Waynesville, N.C.

 Carolyn moved to western North Carolina in 1948.

 She lived and served her beloved children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She enjoyed service to the Lord and was an active member of Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church. As a public health nurse at the Buncombe County Health Department for 30 years, she joyfully ministered in her job taking care of her patients. 

 In the 1950s, Mission Hospital operated a nursing school that would eventually become the Memorial Mission Hospital School of Nursing. Carolyn graduated as a nurse, or “Mission Belle,” as they were called, in 1955. Mission Belles trained together for three years, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Not only did the nurses receive exceptional training, they shared a sense of community and formed fond memories which have lasted Carolyn’s lifetime.

  Carolyn could light up a room with her bright smile and warm heart. The love she poured into gardening and taking care of her yard resulted in a colorful and diverse display of plants and trees year after year. She also enjoyed cooking and entertaining. 

  Community involvement was an important aspect in Carolyn’s life. She served as a longtime member and past president of the West Asheville Kiwanettes Club; led the Biltmore Methodist Women’s Church Bible Study; volunteered with ABCCM; served as a Girl Scout leader; and taught Sunday School. Carolyn was a devout Christian, and she had no doubt about where she would spend eternity. Her greatest hope was that friends and family would be joining her there.

 She is survived by her sons: E. Keith Jackson (Rebecca), Mark E. Jackson (Janice) of Fairview; daughter, Annette J. Pfister of Tuxedo, N.C.; four grandchildren: Kristen Almy, Samuel Jackson, Aaron Jackson, and Candice Gallego; and nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many dear family members in Georgia.

 Memorial services will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church, 2 Bear Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28806. A private burial will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Green Hills Cemetery.

 The family will receive friends on Saturday immediately following the service at the church in the Fellowship Hall.

 The family would like to thank Brooks-Howell Home and Flesher’s Fairview Health and Retirement Center for their loving care. And great gratitude to Four Seasons Hospice Care for their incredible support and great care.

 Anders-Rice Funeral Home is honored to serve the Jackson family.

 To sign Mrs. Jackson’s guestbook online, visit www.andersrice.com.