In Loving Memory

Joni Marie Jamerson Jackson
September 6, 1956 — September 17, 2026
In loving memory of Joni Marie Jamerson-Jackson, who peacefully departed this life at the age of 70, on September 17, 2026, at her home in Richmond, California. Joni was born on September 6, 1956, in the vibrant city of San Francisco, California to the late Barbara Jean Curry and James Perry Jamerson.
Joni was united in holy matrimony to the the late Charles Douglas Jackson for over 13 years.
Joni's journey throughout her life was marked by deep faith, boundless love, and unwavering dedication to family, church and community.
Joni received her formal education from the San Francisco Public School System. After graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School, Joni was employed as a security guard for United Airlines in San Francisco, working alongside her big sister, L'Tanya. Upon receiving her first pay check, and many afterwards, Joni generously shared her earnings with her mother and sisters. This was more money than she had ever had, and she wanted to share her experience with those she loved.
Joni's early years were enriched by her service in the U.S. Army from 1979 -1982, where she was stationed in South Carolina - Fort Jackson, Washington State - Fort Lewis, and Okinawa, Japan. Her honorable discharge was a testament to her commitment to serve her country faithfully. After her military service, Joni embraced a career as a transit operator for MUNI in San Francisco, (once again, working with her sister, L'Tanya). Joni's warm smile and kind heart touched the hearts of all her passengers.
Joni was invited to visit St. John Missionary Baptist Church by Sis. Faye Bradford, and soon joined as a faithful member. She served for over 12 years, under the pastoral ship of Rev. Kevin B. Hall. Joni found deep purpose in offering help wherever it was most needed. She devoted Wednesday's for Bible study, Sunday's to praise, honor, worship, and serve God. Her passion for the gospel was infectious. She often shared her love of Jesus Christ and the scriptures by witnessing to others. If someone was having a bad day, Joni would say, "Jesus loves you". If she felt someone needed encouragement, she would tell them; "Cast your cares on Him, for He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7, and Jesus will never leave you nor forsake you, to inspire others.
Joni's life was a tapestry of compassion and generosity. She was known for her loving and generous spirit, devotion towards others and dedication to those in need. She volunteered weekly at the local food pantry. Joni engaged with everyone she met. Her love for family was profound; she delighted in giving personalized items as gifts to her sisters and loved ones, each carefully chosen to bring joy and excitement.
Her home was filled with laughter and warmth, shared with her cherished pets, including her beloved dog, Happy. She also adored her friendly parakeets, Tweedy and Snowflake, who greeted her guest with a friendly, "HELLO!"
Joni was the second oldest daughter. She was raised by a loving mom, Barbara, with five adoring, close-knit sisters:
Joni enjoyed riding with her sister, L'Tanya, whom she often referred to as her "personal chauffer." Both retired from MUNI with exceptional records and numerous accommodations.
Joni's hobbies were as diverse as her interests. She enjoyed reading, Bible study, swimming, volleyball, backgammon, and tennis. She also loved gospel music. Joni liked cooking, but particularly enjoyed dining with her sisters as they all enjoyed feasting on Sister Susan's delicious Louisiana Seafood Gumbo and award-winning collard greens. These favorite entrées, shared by their mom, Barbara, kept them united in love, devotion and harmony.
Joni's life was a testament to the power of love and faith. Her memory will forever be cherished in the lives of those she touched. A special tribute to Sis. Lizzeren Thomas as a wonderful friend, who picked Joni up for church each Sunday.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Charles Douglas Jackson, mother, Barbara Jean Curry, father, James Perry Jamerson, step-father, James Arnold Curry, her sister Cheryl Denise Jamerson, (10/19/1955 - 10/23/1955), her "Irish Twin", and her step-brother, Clint Jamerson, of Shreveport, LA. She is survived by her devoted and loving children, Gloria V. Taylor, Joe L. Taylor, III, and Zaneta R. Taylor; her beloved grandson, Jameel Stephens, her sisters, L'Tanya R. Demby, (Vallejo, CA) Michelle D. Crawford, (Tacoma, WA) Debra C. Christian, (Harrisburg, PA) Susan L. McElroy, (James), (San Francisco, CA), Lisa M. Curry, (San Leandro), Aunt, Rev. Dr. Martha C. Taylor, Aunt Sue Granger, Uncle Harris Taylor, (Carolyn), Uncle Raymond Taylor, Aunt Gloria Hill, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and many friends.
Her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.
In Loving Memory of Joni
A Faithful Witness Safely Home
A beautiful soul has answered the call,
Resting in the grace that redeems us all.
Our dearest sister has finished her race,
And now beholds her Savior's face.
Through every trial, in joy and in strife,
She walked with the Lord all the days of her life.
A faithful witness for Jesus Christ, her King,
Of His mercy and goodness, her spirit would sing.
Her love was a shelter, her faith was a guide,
Carried by those she leaves here on this side,
But no earthly blessing brought her heart greater joy,
Than Jameel, her precious, beloved grandson boy.
He was the light of her eyes, a gift from above,
Wrapped in her prayers and her infinite love.
Though our hearts are heavy, we know she is blest,
Safely in glory, entered into her rest.
Her legacy lives, though her journey is done,
A good and faithful servant, whose crown has been won.
2 Timothy 4:7
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.
Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness...."
In lieu of flowers, the family of Joni Marie Jamerson Jackson welcomes donations to
African American Alzheimers And Wellness Association
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