John Bligh
- Retired Teacher
- PS 156, Brooklyn
Virginia Jackson, who started out as a paraprofessional and later became a teacher in her 40-year-long career in New York City public schools, is remembered for her devotion to her students and as a true lifelong learner.
Her daughter Denise Odom said her mother, who retired from teaching some 15 years ago, often spent her own money on classroom supplies for needy students and small gifts to reward students for a job well done. Underscoring Virginia’s impact on their lives, some of her students stayed in touch with her after her retirement. Virginia died of coronavirus on April 14 at age 78.
Virginia spent more than two decades as a early childhood teacher at PS 156 in Brooklyn. She taught first grade in her final years before she retired.
“I remember how friendly Virginia was when I first came to the school and how much her students loved her,” said former PS 156 colleague Paula McCuchin. “She was serious but loving.”
All while raising a family, Jackson earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Medgar Evers College and a master’s degree from Adelphi University and took additional courses at Fordham University and Brooklyn College to attain her MA plus 30 credits.
B’nai Brith and the Schomberg Center for Research in Black Culture were among the numerous organizations that honored Virginia for her service and professional excellence.
Virginia loved cooking and often made huge smorgasbord feasts during the holidays. But her greatest love was for her family.
In addition to Denise, Virginia is survived by her daughter Annette; two grandchildren; three sisters and a brother; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Condolences can be sent to:
Annette Odom
240 Cozine Ave. #3J
Brooklyn, NY 11207
Sorry I never got the chance to say goodbye. Love sister from Grafton street love you Denise and Annette odom
Please contact me if possible. Luv sista from Grafton street
Denise,
You and your family are in my prayers. Your Mom was a blessing in the lives of so many. I hope the memories of her love and kindness bring joy and lightness into this time of sorrow.
RIP Aunt Virginia Beautiful woman with a Beautiful soul Fly High Angel Gone but never Forgotten ❤️
To Denise and family, after reading about your mother I now know were you get your grace and strength…prayers for you all.
Who would have thought almost 2 years ago that a mischievous then 11 year old would have been the linchpin that forged a Beautiful Kinship. As I read over the Heartfelt Sentiment of those on the thread that have the Privilege of knowing this Family longer, it became evident why adopting you into the hearts of my Family was so easy. There is something to be said about a Matriarch when you see her Children in the world. The same Love, Dedication, Kindness & Compassion expressed on the thread live in the Legacy of Ms. Virginia’s daughter Annette Odom. Annette embodies Humanity Manifest. Her way of being has blessed my Family more than she will ever know. We credit & are in Deep Gratitude to Ms. Virginia for it on today. We look forward to meeting Ms. Virginia’s other Children & Family. May she Rest in Strength & Peace.
In Solidarity,
The Fynn Family in 4J
An Angel on Earth has gone to Heaven
She will be Missed by All who knew her
Virginia will always be in My Heart….
RIP my Dear Friend till we Meet Again
DENISE and Annette My Family and I will Always Be Here For You!!!
❤❤❤❤
My condolences and prayers to her family and loved ones. I recognize her from the neighborhood.
To the family of Ms.Virginia , so sorry for your loss of such a nice person. She was such a good neighbor always looking out for the 3 fl.
Especially CHRISTMAS time and decorating the doors. She will be missed.
Love you and will miss you very much aunt Virginia!!!! Till we meet again…. please say hello to Uncle Walter, Uncle Harold, Grandma, and Dad for me…..
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
R.I.P AUNTIE
When we moved on the floor in 2004 she knock on the door introduced herself welcome us to the building an ever since been apart of my family. She was my auntie.. always checked on my mom to make sure she was ok. Always embrace my daughter everytime she seen her, an when she see me the first thing she ask “where is MY little lady at”
Auntie Virginia a pure gift. She made the best fish an cornbread… mmmmm. I will truly miss her an miss her love.. care… loyalty… an bright spirit.
Will never be forgotten.
Prayers of peace and comfort for you and your family. God bless
Auntie you had a heart of gold, so kindhearted, helpful to all, and supportive. You make me proud to say I am your neice. You will be greatly missed. I’m glad at least I had a little time to see you and share a few laughs and memories .
Denise and Annette, we are sorry for your loss Cuz’ns. Please know that we love you and pray that God will comfort you through this difficult time of bereavement. Xoxo
Aunt Virginia you were truly loved. Your sweetness and kind heart will truly be missed. I will never forget you. Love you always.
Such a beautiful spirit! I really enjoyed your bus rides. Rest In Peace.
My Condolences to the Family
I Am the light of the world he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.
John 8:12
Hello Lil Sis,
We all LOVE you VERY MUCH but, God loves you best.
Go now and take your rest.
From Big Sis and Family.
Say Hello to Harold from us.
Denise, Annette and the rest of the family I send condolences to you all from my family! May you find some comfort in this challenging time. May God Continue to bless you all! We love you,
Vikki Carter and Family
Mrs Jackson was a wonderful lady. Words can’t express the void she is leaving in many hearts. She was a lady who mothered more than just her biological children. Her words of wisdom will never be forgotten. She was one of the BEST ENY mothers ever.
My condolences to Annette, Denise and family.
May God provide you words of comfort in these days of sorrow.
Condolences from Clarinda and family. She will be missed. Keep strong.
My deepest condolences to the family. Mrs. Jackson was an iconic mother and beloved entertainer. Denise, Annette Odom you were truly blessed.
God has recalled an Angel. An Angel who has left her Angel to continue the legacy.
I lift you up
As well as your beautiful daughter, Denise
My condolences to you and your family. May the Grace of God be with you during this difficult time.
My condolences to Denise and family members, your mother was loved and beautiful, may she Rest In Peace .
Sis, may you find solace in the lovely memories you shared with your mom.
May your Mom rest in peace and continue to guide your way in life.
I’ll pray for you and the rest of your family. God Bless your Mom Sis.
To A BEAUTIFUL SMART WOMEN TO KNOW. I LOVE TO SHARE CONVERSTIONS TO HER ON ALL LEVELS OF LIFE(Exspecually our love for COLUMBO). SHE ALWAYS GAVE HER UNDIVIDED ATTENTION TO YOU. FOR ALL WHO LOVES MY DEVIL EGGS IS BECAUSE OF MRS. JACKSON MAKING SURE I SERVE THEM IN A FANCY EGG HOLDER. SHE GAVE ME. A JOB WELL DONE. R.I.P. MRS JACKSON LOVE DEBORAH BRATHWAITE & FAMILY.
I send my condolences to you and your family.We wish you and your family the Grace of God in this time of sorrow. R.I.P. Ms. Jackson.
My condolence to You know Denise on the passing of your mother stay strong
Denise & Annette
Your Mom was Beautiful Woman.
I can’t even describe the Love I have for MS VJ who was a Educator Mother to Denise&Annette .Plus family friend loved her communities that she lived in loved her made everyone love and adore her. Brilliant witty fun Lovely mother Aunt Grandmother Grand Children Wife caretaker caregiver my words is how I feel about the charismatic person in my life .I’m her 3rd daughter with all my I Heart I Love you Ms VJ. God open the gate for a New Angel Queen Virginia Jackson
Robin A.Lacey P141k @ 380 This is my 3rd Mom Love you Ms Vj 4ever❣❣
There are no words to express how much losing you means to me, you have been there for my entire lfe. When I was a teenager you were ther for me, and when I became an adult you were always there for me. You have been able to change so many lives through education. The people of Brownsville and East New York Brooklyn will always love and remember you for all that you did for generations of children. When I was asked to be a teacher, I came to you first. Your words of wisdom was love your students first, and always have something for your students to eat. I took that advice, you taught me so much about how to manage the classroom. I always enjoyed coming to your house and having great meals, I loved your bus trips. You live on in so many hearts , and I know who you are with. Last year this time you asked me to do something, I said I would and I will. I am trying to let the love ease the pain.
My deepest condolences to Denise, Omari, Annette, Ziphora andfamily and close friends. I honor Ms. Virginia Jackson a true inspiration and awesome mom to one of my dearest friends Denise Odom. I thank God for allowing me to become a part of mother Jackson’s clan. She had me at hello and her famous mac and cheese. She will truly be missed. I am happy I had the opportunity to celebrate Queen mother Jackson’s birthday last year with her and Denise it was intimate it was lovely and it was blessed. Ms. Virginia sleep in heavenly peace. In Jesus name amen.
♥️