There are many things in life we cannot understand,

But we must trust God’s Judgement, and are guided by His hands…

And all who have God’s blessing can rest safely in His care,

For He promises safe passage on the wings of faith and prayer.

Trellis Jackson was born premature on February 20, 1958, the third of four children to the late Jack and Roxie Ann (Howard) Jackson in Savannah, Georgia. She was in a home incubator for months. Being ill for the past five years, she courageously fought for better health. Recently, at The Ohio State University in Ross Heart and The James Hospitals, in Columbus, Ohio, she was heard to say, “It’s in God’s hands.” In quietness and with confidence in God the Father, she transitioned to eternal rest on February 15, 2024, with family at her bedside. As in her premature entrance into the world, her exit seemed premature as well, but we are reminded that she said, “It’s in God’s hands.”

Trellis was educated in the Effingham County Public School System, where in 1976, she graduated from Effingham County High School. She enjoyed school but loved playing basketball. As a member of the varsity basketball team, she played the position of point guard; and, from all accounts she was an acclaimed, awesome basketball player.

Her family faithfully attended the Northside Church of God in Springfield, Georgia. Growing up in the church she went to Sunday school every Sunday, took part in holiday programs, and participated in the youth fish fry outings at the home of a strong youth supporter. It was in Ohio that she accepted Christ. As a result of the complexity of her diagnosed illnesses, she considered herself a virtual member watching First Church of God, The City of Refuge service every Sunday. Trellis prepared her monthly communion and sent an offering from time to time, but always for Pastor and the First Lady Anniversary.

When she moved to the state of New York, she attended Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica, studying culinary arts to become a chef. Her chef’s knives were her pride and joy. She worked in restaurants while attending school. Continuing her love of sports while in New York, she was a member of the Soul Sisters Softball Team playing the position of third base. Again, she was considered a very good player.

Upon returning to Georgia, Trellis worked in various positions in the food service industry. While working at a senior home food delivery service, reportedly the seniors knew when she was not at work because the food just did not taste the same. Employed at the Savannah Hilton she was noted for making scrumptious omelets and very noteworthy lunch entrees. Some of the dishes that she cooked and served were her mother, Mrs. Roxie’s recipes. While working at the Savannah School of Art and Design (SCAD), the students waited in line to get one of Ms. Trellis’ omelets and much more. She served with a lovely smile. Personally, she was a fried chicken wing loving sister, however, it was flats only.

To merely say Trellis enjoyed cooking is an understatement. Cooking was her happy place. She immensely enjoyed preparing food for her family, friends, and others. Probably her most popular dish was her famous southern, long cooking barbecue ribs. When learning that she was preparing them the yard was full of uninvited, but not unwelcome guests; there were always enough. Upon coming to Ohio, she found her way to the kitchen at First Church of God during the Labor Day event, offering to help. Wherever she was no one left her presence without being offered a little something to eat, that’s regardless of whether it was her food or someone else’s.

She always helped her family with cooking, cleaning, driving, and more. She attended all family reunions in various states. One of her fondest often told memories was when she singerly drove her mother over 20 hours to Utica, New York for the Annual Howard Newkirk Reunion. “It was just momma and me.”

In the realm of helping/serving, Trellis acted as what is now known as a caregiver for her sister, an aunt and two uncles all of whom she dearly loved doing all she could for each of them, without complaints. A cousin commented, “Some people come to be served. She came as a servant not for money but served because of love.” It is said that people were drawn to her for her compassion, willingness to give and kindness that she inherited from her mother. She had very special love and regard for her nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

Trellis was a very passionate sports fan: baseball, basketball and football, and if not watching the game with her, she vocally did not welcome phone calls or interruptions during a game. No calls during CBS soap operas, was also understood by those who knew her well. Her loyalty to sports, family and friends was genuine and parallel.

Because of her acceptance of, “It’s in His hands” Trellis transitioned; but was preceded in death by her parents Jack and Roxie Ann Jackson, sister Linda Jackson Jiles, brother Gerald M. Jackson and many other beloved family members. She is survived by her sister Vivian Jackson (McNite) Anderson, Columbus, Ohio; brother Palmer (Judann) Taylor, Philadelphia Pennsylvania; brother-in-law Oscar Jiles, Rincon, Georgia; her nieces Bronda Jackson-(Kevin) Fawkes, Reynoldsburg, Ohio; Rhonda M. Jackson, Columbus, Ohio; one Aunt Annie M. Smith, Washington, D.C.; great nephews, great nieces, cousins, extended family, and beloved, special, caring friends.

“It’s in God’s hands.”

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