Jennifer Jackson-Pawlak Obituary (1960 - 2024)

Jennifer Anne Jackson-Pawlak April 17, 1960 – November 10, 2024 Jennifer Anne Jackson-Pawlak, born on April 17, 1960, in New Castle, Indiana, passed away peacefully in Carthage, Tennessee, with her daughter by her side. She faced a brief but courageous battle with cancer, displaying immense bravery and grace throughout. Jennifer was the cherished daughter of Robert G. Jackson and Ruth Jackson (Stivers). Jennifer was their only daughter and youngest of four children. As a minister’s daughter, she spent her early years moving frequently across north-central Indiana before settling in South Bend, where she lived most of her life. Jennifer pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher, graduating from Indiana State University. She dedicated her entire career to the South Bend Community School Corporation, retiring in 2020. That same year, she relocated to Carthage, Tennessee, to be near her daughter and family until her passing in 2024. Jennifer is survived by her mother, Ruth Jackson; her brothers, Gregg and Phillip Jackson; her daughter, Katherine (Lewis) Wade; and her four grandchildren, Ezra (Rosie) Brewer, Lydia, Isaac, and Matthew Wade. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert G. Jackson; her brother, Robb Jackson; and her husband, James D. Pawlak. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at Pavilion Senior Living in Carthage, Tennessee, as well as to Gentiva Hospice for their exceptional care and support. A private service will be held at a later date, at which time she will be interred in Anderson, Indiana, to rest alongside her father and brother. In lieu of flowers, we enthusiastically request donations in Jennifer’s memory be made to Gentiva Hospice at: https://www.gentivahs.com/about/donate/