Mrs. Mamie Jackson

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7 With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Mamie Goldsmith Jackson. She departed this life on March 31, 2026, at the age of 75. She transitioned peacefully and now rests in the eternal presence of her Lord and Savior. Rev. Mamie Goldsmith Jackson was born on February 3, 1951, in Montgomery, Alabama. She was nurtured in a home anchored in love, discipline, self-denial, and perseverance—an upbringing that shaped her character and gave rise to a life centered on God, guided by purpose, and devoted to the service of her family and community. Her practice of servant leadership, paired with her discerning mind, left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was a 1969 graduate of George Washington Carver High School and a proud alumna of Alabama State University, Class of 1974. Her academic journey provided a strong foundation that prepared her to excel in the workplace, where she distinguished herself through leadership, service, and excellence. Mamie was united in holy matrimony to Samuel Archie Jackson on January 15, 1977. Together, they were blessed with, and lovingly raised one daughter. Mamie poured love, kindness and unparalleled support into her family daily, creating a home grounded in faith and resilience. Mamie served with distinction for more than 30 years at the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC), retiring as Director of Mail Operations and leaving a legacy of leadership in the pursuit of justice and tolerance. In honor of her retirement, the Southern Poverty Law Center Board of Directors formally acknowledged her outstanding career achievements. During her tenure, she presided over an unprecedented era of successful operations, helping make possible the SPLC’s programmatic expansion. She led operations responsible for processing more than 40 million pieces of donor mail, supervised initiatives to automate and improve mail systems, and courageously assisted in recovery efforts following an arson attack in 1983. More notably, Mamie enhanced SPLC’s donor sustainer program, increasing production by more than 75%. Mamie was deeply committed to her family, church and community. She loved the Lord and served faithfully as an ordained minister. She was a dedicated member of Jackson Chapel AME Zion Church for more than 48 years. Her service included leadership roles on the local, district and conference levels of the AME Zion Church. She served in various capacities including membership in multiple choirs and service as a tutor and mentor. Over the years, Mamie also received appointments as Christian Education Director, Vacation Bible School Director, Conference Evangelist, and Supply Pastor. She had a special passion for youth development, creating and supporting programs that provided both Christian education and civic awareness. She also served as a Girl Scout Leader and mentored high school students in job readiness and workforce development. Her commitment to service extended through her affiliations with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated; Top Ladies of Distinction; the Order of the Eastern Star; and as a Life Member of the AME Zion Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society. Mamie was known for her steadfast commitment, strength of character, sharp mind, and diligent spirit. She was business-minded and matter-of-fact, yet deeply compassionate and devoted to those she loved. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a cherished grandmother, a caring sister, loving aunt, and a loyal friend. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cephus Goldsmith and Ruby Lee Lawhorn Goldsmith; her father-in-love, Jewel B. Jackson, and mother-in- love Smiley Long Jackson; her brother, Larry Goldsmith; her sister, Cynthia Goldsmith; and her beloved twin children and another dear child, all of whom she loved deeply and who now rest with the Lord. She leaves to cherish her precious memory: a devoted husband of 49 years, Samuel A. Jackson; loving daughter and son-in-love, Ebony Cara Jackson (Brian) Crews; cherished granddaughter, Briannah Karielle Crews all of Midland City, AL. She is also survived by additional children, Roderick Calloway, Wetumpka, AL; Cedrick Powell, Simpsonville, SC; Tony Wayne (Nicole) Singleton, Montgomery, AL, and Tremayne Hellom, Millbrook, AL; her grandchildren, Ariel Palmore, Wetumpka, AL; LaKeshia (Quincey) Fombey, Talladega, AL; Amber Singleton and Emily Singleton of Montgomery, AL; Treal Powell, Simpsonville, SC; Deandre Hellom, Conway, SC; Brandon Hellom, San Diego, CA; Khyron Powell, Tuscaloosa, AL; and Kadayn Anderson, Millbrook, AL; her great-grandchildren, DaKaden Chatman, Kheris Jones, King Singleton, and Kaison Jones all of Wetumpka, AL. Also among those to cherish beautiful memories are her siblings: Ruby Jean Lewis, Arthur Gene (Emma) Goldsmith, Willie Joe (Gladys) Goldsmith, Annette G. Wynn, David Lee (Gloria) Goldsmith, Hosea (Valeria) Goldsmith, Ella Rea (Alex) Foulks, Cephus (Johnetta) Goldsmith, Matthew (Tammetha) Goldsmith, Adam (Claudette) Goldsmith, Israel Goldsmith, Amos (Darlene) Goldsmith, and Joseph Goldsmith, all of Montgomery AL. Siblings-in-love include, Jewel D. McCoy, Coosada, AL; Lillie M. (Matthew) Fenderson, Apopka, FL; Jacqueline (Arthur) Hartwell, Montgomery, AL; LaVera J. Long, Coosada, AL; Lavon (Eric) Sanders, and Vernita Jennings of Montgomery, AL. In addition, she is survived by an uncle, Bobby R. (Sylvia) Lawhorn of Buford, Georgia; her aunts, Celia Haynes, Montgomery, AL; Sarah (Raymond) Collins, Albion, MI; and Clara Thomas, Ft. Deposit, AL; her dear and devoted longtime friends, Helen and Carl Ballard, Birmingham, AL; as well as faithful friends, Peggy Sue Crews, Abbeville, AL; and Carolyn Oliver, Montgomery, AL; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, church family, and other friends whose lives were blessed by her presence. Mamie’s life was a testament to faith, perseverance, service, and love. She poured into others selflessly and leaves behind a legacy that will continue for generations. Though she will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing that she has received her heavenly reward. Mamie’s life reflected a deep and abiding faith, quiet strength, and a steadfast commitment to others. She gave generously of herself, touching countless lives through her wisdom, compassion, and example. Her impact will continue to be felt in the lives she influenced and the values she instilled. Though she will be profoundly missed, we are comforted in knowing she now rests in eternal peace. “Well done, thy good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23