SISTER JEANNE JACKSON of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, Northeast Community died Monday (December 29, 2014). Sister was born in New Haven, December 1, 1927 to the late Joseph and Helen (Gray) Jackson. She earned a BA degree from the College of New Rochelle and a Master’s degree from the University of Illinois before embarking on a career in education, teaching in the public school system in Urbana, IL. With a group of interested parents, she founded and directed her own pre-school in Urbana before entering the Sisters of Mercy in 1976. Sister Jeanne professed religious vows on March 2, 1980 and continued teaching in New Britain, Greenwich and Waterbury. She also briefly served as Assistant Program Director at Mercy Center, Madison. After earning a Certificate in Pastoral Ministry, Jeanne ministered as Director of Religious Education and Outreach Ministries in the Norwich diocese. Upon retiring in 1997, she remained engaged in several volunteer capacities, including that of receptionist at Mercyknoll. Sister’s love for children endeared her to her students as well as to her young nieces and nephews. She also loved nature and displayed this through her artistic and creative talents. Jeanne was thoughtful, always interested in people, and never forgot a birthday! In addition to her Community of Mercy, Sister Jeanne is survived by her sister, Nancy Grote of New Hampshire and several nieces, nephews and faithful friends. Sister’s life will be celebrated with a Mass of the Resurrection on Friday in the Chapel of St. Mary Home at 2:00 pm. Family and the Sisters will receive visitors from 12:00-1:45 pm, prior to the Mass. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, West Hartford. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Sister Jeanne are asked to consider the Sisters of Mercy, 55 East Cedar St., Newington 06111. Sheehan-Hilborn-Breen Funeral Home, West Hartford has care of arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com.