Anna Marie Jackson

After living strong for 90 years, Anna Marie Jackson passed away on Tuesday, May 27 in Asheville, NC. Her body succumbed to a long life well lived at the local hospital with family and loving caregivers by her side. Anna Marie was born on March 7, 1924, in Boyd County, on a farm in Catlettsburg. Raised by her parents, Robert Clay (d.1953) and Gracie Harris Clay (d.1991) surrounded by three sisters and an abundance of animals, Anna learned the value and satisfaction of hard work early in her life. Due to her determination, as a young woman in her 20's, she found a way to purchase the farm she loved so well and owned until the day she died. Her value of hard work coupled with her loyal spirit, especially for family, were the cornerstones of her life. From her work in a factory during WWII to her employment with Second National Bank (now Community Trust) for more than 40 years, these values made her a beloved and respected employee. As a customer relations representative at the bank, Anna Marie assisted a multitude of people, many of whom became her life long friends. It seemed she knew all of Ashland; or at least, all of Ashland knew her. After marrying Wendell Jackson in Ashland in 1953, they lived on the farm and continued the farming tradition in addition to caring for family members and being employed full time. They shared a mutual love of raising cattle and gardening for their 40 years of marriage. Having moved to Asheville, NC to be closer to her sister and great-niece, Anna quickly found community at Heather Glen Assisted Living. Even in the toughest times, she kept those around her entertained with her stories and witty repartee touching everyone with her infectious spirit. As her body aged, her spirit never changed from the intelligent, quick-witted, tenacious and sassy woman she had always been. Anna Marie is survived by her sister, Myrtle Clay; her niece, Joyce Parry; her great-niece, Michele Bryan; and two great great nieces, Cassidy Fay Murphy and Kate Murphy. She is predeceased by her husband Wendell (d.1993) as well as her sisters, Wilma Jean Clay (d.1999) and Ruth Peters (d.2001). A gathering will be held for Anna Marie Saturday, May 31 from 10am till noon at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian on Long Shoals Road. Friends of Anna's are invited to bring their favorite stories of her to share following the viewing and visitation. On Sunday, June 1, Anna Marie will be buried with her family at Bolt Cemetery in Kentucky. The family invites friends to join in this time of celebrating the life of Anna Marie. Bring your stories of her joyful spirit as we gather to remember her strength, her love, and her laughter. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.