Mother Dorothy Cato Jackson was born March 7, 1940, in the small town of Bon Wier, Texas, bringing light, laughter, and love that would radiate through generations.

In May of 1956, Dorothy married the love of her life, Leon C. Jackson. The young couple spent a brief time in California before returning to Bon Wier, Texas, where they laid deep roots and built a life grounded in love and faith.

Lovingly known as "Maw Maw," Dorothy and Leon raised seven children, creating a home filled with joy, warmth, and the comforting aroma of her home-cooked meals. Her kitchen was often the heart of the home, and her love could be felt in every dish she prepared.

At a young age, Dorothy joined Belgrade Baptist Church, rededicating her life to Christ in 1975. Her faith was steadfast, and she served faithfully as a devoted church mother and mission president until her health began to decline. Her favorite hymn, "I'm a Soldier in the Army of the Lord," reflected her daily walk as a true soldier for Christ.

Dorothy had a gift for making everyday moments special. She found joy in fishing, gardening, canning, working word puzzles, reading her Bible, and watching westerns. She loved to share stories about "the old days" and was always ready for a family or neighborhood cookout. She enjoyed selling candy and soda to support her church and found purpose in visiting the elderly, bringing comfort to those who needed it most. Whether enjoying a piece of watermelon or preparing fish for a meal, Dorothy's love for people was evident in all she did.

On Tuesday, July 8th, 2025, Dorothy Jackson gained her wings in her transition from this earthly life. Awaiting her heavenly arrival is her husband, Leon Carl Jackson Sr.; her daughter, Rosie Lee Jackson; her mother, Stella Elam; her stepfather, James Elam; her father, Lewis Cato; her brothers, Robert Lee Jackson, Austin Elam, and David Charles Elam; her grandmother, Sadie Singleton; grandson De'Rodney Jackson; and granddaughter Monica Lynn Samuel.

Dorothy's legacy continues through her siblings: Rosetta Hickman, Willie Mae Kenebrew (Jr.), Charles Elam Sr. (Juanita) all of Newton, TX; James Elam Jr. (Carla) of Jasper, TX; Earl L. Elam of Houston, TX; Welton J. (Mickey) of Texas City, TX; Charl Cato Reece of Beaumont, TX; and Jackie Bell of Los Angeles, CA. She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Willie R. Jackson Sr. (Pam) of Jasper, TX; Leon C. Jackson Jr. (Linda) of Bleakwood, TX; Betty L. Samuel of Bon Wier, TX; Curtis R. Jackson of Bon Wier, TX; Sadie M. Jackson of East Palo Alto, CA; Stella F. Jackson of East Palo Alto, CA; and a special grandson of Bon Wier, TX, O'Gerald Jackson.

Her love endures through her grandchildren: Rebecca Jackson, Ricky Ray Jackson, Bridgette Samuel-Barlow, Cameron Jackson, Joshua Samuel, Alexis Augustine, Shayla Hughey, Samantha Bunch, Willie Jackson Jr., Melissa Davis, David Samuel, Janet Samuel, Reginald Jackson, Sterling Childs, Cory Williams, along with a host of great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Dorothy's kindness, stories, laughter, and unwavering faith will forever remain in the hearts of her family, her church family, and countless friends. Her life was a living testimony of love, faith, resilience, and love—and her memory will continue to guide and inspire those she leaves behind.
We celebrate Mother Dorothy Cato Jackson's homegoing, knowing she is at peace, rejoicing in the presence of the Lord she served so faithfully.