I was an exchange student from Japan in 1997–1998 and she welcomed me into her home and her family with such warmth and generosity. Because of her care and love, I was able to adapt to a completely new environment. I will always be deeply grateful for how she supported me, taking me places, introducing me to people, hugging me, and simply being there for me.

I still remember her saying, as she left the house, “No boys, no parties!”, always with a smile and playful wink. It feels like just yesterday.

Like so many others, I loved her cooking. I can still remember the wonderful smell in the house during the holidays when she baked cookies, we would even taste them straight from the oven before they made it into the container. Even after experiencing many wonderful restaurants around the world, her cabbage rolls and banana bread have always remained my favorites.

I cannot thank her enough for the person she helped me become and for the happiness I have in my life today. After my exchange year, I went on to university, moved to Europe where I spent 21 years, and now I am back in Tokyo raising two children with my husband.

I miss you, Mom.KazUSA

Ms. Cherie was a wonderful woman of God! An amazing cook, baker and faithful servant. I remember stealing a little sample of whatever she was cooking or baking from her kitchen. The most fond memory I have is when I preached my initial sermon in 2008 and she gifted me with a ministers travel bag that I still use to this day. 

On behalf of the Brown family, we extend our prayers and heartfelt condolences to the loss of Mrs. Cherie Jackson. May God give strength to the Jackson/Johnson family during this time of loss. 

Rev. Jordan Brown-Dziabiak