The Grand Dame of Cherry Creek

October 27, 1924  - August 18, 2024

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A Memorial Service for Nancelia Jackson, the beloved matriarch of the Jackson Family and the Grand Dame of Cherry Creek, was held on Wednesday, August 28, at Scott United Methodist Church, her church home of 70-plus years.

Mrs Jackson passed away on August 18 at her home in the North Cherry Creek neighborhood where she lived for 98 years.

Excerpts from her obituary offered insights into her family life, professional achievements, commitment to the church, and social advocacy.

While she was born in Chicago, Illinois, and was the second oldest of six siblings, her family moved to Denver in 1926 from segregated Missouri and Illinois in pursuit of better opportunities. Over the years, her family left a lasting impact by constructing three residences in the now-toney North Cherry Creek neighborhood, initially known as Denver’s dumping ground. They also built a cabin in historic Lincoln Hills. These endeavors were made possible through the remarkable efforts of her grandfather, William Pitts, who was born into slavery in Missouri.

She received her education from Denver Public Schools and attended Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri. Interestingly, her mother graduated from the same historically Black college in 1915.

In 1945, she married Floyd M. Jackson, Jr., a soldier stationed in Laramie, Wyoming, during World War II. They met at a USO-sponsored event in Five Points.

Nancelia worked and volunteered as a school aide at the Air Force Finance and Accounting Center, where she worked for two decades and retired at age 65. After retirement, she worked as a temporary receptionist for Dimanna & Jackson Law Firm until 2012. She was an active election official at the voting polls for over 30 years, voting in every national and local election since the age of 21.

Her memoir, “A Chronicle of Precious Memories,” was published in 2005 and is now exhibited in multiple museums. She has been featured in publications and appeared in a public television special on Black travel in the U.S.

Nancelia was a devoted member of Scott United Methodist Church. She served as an usher, participated in Bible study, and volunteered in the church’s kitchen until she was 93. Her dedication garnered a church pew named in her honor.

Nancelia was a strong advocate for social justice and racial inclusion. She was known for writing letters to address injustice and supported President Obama. Before her passing, she openly advocated for Vice President Kamala Harris, who recently sent her a letter congratulating her on her upcoming 100th birthday.

Mrs. Jackson is survived by her brothers, Warren F. Scott (Sandra) and Arthur B. Scott (Frazier). Her children also survive her: Hon. Retired Judge Gary M. Jackson (Regina), Larry M. Jackson (Jennifer), and Kimberle M. Jackson-Butler. Additionally, she is survived by grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Nancelia’s remains will be spread at the Zephyr View cabin in historic Lincoln Hills.