Betty Dow Jackson

Betty Louise Dow, born on May 19, 1930, in Bluefield, West Virginia, was a remarkable woman whose life was marked by dedication to education, family, and community. As the eldest of three daughters of Cecil and Cathelene Dow, she grew up in Slab Fork, a coal mining town, deeply rooted in the values of hard work and resilience. Betty excelled academically, graduating from Byrd Prillerman High School before pursuing further education at Bluefield State College, where she became a proud member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Her passion for teaching led her back to her high school to educate future generations, including her youngest sister. On January 11, 1953, Betty married her high school and college sweetheart, Floyd I. Jackson Sr. Floyd and Betty moved to Washington, DC, in 1955, where Betty became an active member of the Isreal Baptist Church, joining and being baptized on September 27 of that year. Together, Floyd and Betty welcomed a son, Floyd L. Jackson Jr. "Jack" and later were blessed with two grandchildren, Kirsten and Eian. Betty dedicated 32 years of her life to the Central Intelligence Agency, retiring in 1987 with numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Career Intelligence Medal for Career Achievement." Her commitment to excellence was evident in her professional life as well as her personal endeavors. In her free time, Betty enjoyed planting flowers, sewing, and sharing moments with her grandchildren and neighbors. She was also a devoted fan of the Washington Redskins, proudly holding season tickets. Betty's legacy lives on through her son, Floyd Jackson Jr. (Jenna), her grandchildren Kirsten Jackson-Flowers and Eian Jackson, her sisters Juanita Williams and Janet Cashwell, her embraced brother Richard Henry, and a loving extended family. She is also remembered by her in-laws, Lionel Jackson, Joyce Jackson, Carolyn Tihoe (Jimmy), Charlene Watson (Larry), Ernest Cashwell and Moyer Wilson, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and neighbors who cherished her spirit and warmth. Her life was a testament to love, perseverance, and community, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

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Betty Dow Jackson

May 19, 1930 - December 19, 2024