Carol Elaine Jackson

It is with heavy hearts yet profound gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Carol Elaine Jackson. Born on December 19, 1945, at the Pasadena Women's Hospital, Carol entered the world weighing just 3.13 pounds, a testament to the resilience she would embody throughout her life. On March 9, 2026, Carol passed away peacefully at a hospice home in La Crescenta, CA, with her devoted husband Shannon by her side, after a brief but brave battle with advanced pancreatic cancer. Carol was the beloved daughter of Martin and Berjouhy Margosian. Her early years were marked by challenges, including the loss of her mother and a tumultuous relationship with her father. At the tender age of 14, she set out on her own, showcasing her indomitable spirit and unwavering determination. Her journey led her from working at horse stables and as a theater usher to becoming a beacon of professionalism and dedication in the legal and scientific communities. A proud graduate of Franklin High School in Los Angeles, Class of 1963, Carol furthered her education at Pasadena City College. Her commitment to learning and excellence saw her climb the professional ladder from contracting as an Executive Secretary to securing a permanent position as a Legal Secretary at O'Melveny & Myers. She later joined the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) as a Senior Administrative Secretary in their Power Section, where her organizational skills and warm demeanor left a lasting impact. Carol took immense pride in her involvement with the National Secretaries Association, where she won the prestigious "Type-off" contest three years in a row. Her typing prowess also earned her recognition in the Muscular Dystrophy Association's "Flashtype" contest. Beyond her professional achievements, Carol's heart was vast and her interests varied. An accomplished pianist, she brought joy to many through her volunteer performances at events, nursing homes, and churches. Her love for words found expression in her prolific journaling, and her quick wit shone brightly during her stand-up comedy routines at the Ice House and Coffee Gallery. Carol's love for animals, especially cats, was boundless, and she shared her home and heart with her cherished feline companion, Wally. An excellent cook, she delighted in discovering and perfecting new recipes, always eager to share her culinary creations with loved ones. Carol's personal qualities were as vibrant as her life. She was bright, always truthful, and infused every interaction with warmth and humor. Her ability to counsel and support others was a testament to her compassionate nature. Her organizational skills were unmatched, and her love for people was evident in every facet of her life. Carol's life was further enriched by her 33-year marriage to Shannon Jackson, a partnership rooted in love and mutual respect. She also shared meaningful chapters with previous husbands, Roger Heberle, Terry Ayotle, and Gino Doyle, each contributing to the tapestry of her life. She is survived by her devoted husband, Shannon, and her loving cousins, Robin Carr, Roberleigh Heigh, and Hoberle Phreigh. Carol leaves behind a multitude of friends who were touched by her kindness and warmth, as well as her beloved cat, Wally. In remembering Carol, we celebrate a life of resilience, love, and laughter. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her. A celebration of Carol's life will be held in the coming weeks, where stories, music, and memories will be shared in her honor. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or a charity of your choice that supports animal welfare, causes dear to Carol's heart. Rest in peace, dear Carol. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished.