In Loving Memory of Mary Louise Jackson
December 29, 1932 – January 6, 2025

Mary Louise Jackson (née Strain), a beloved matriarch, storyteller, and source of joy to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, in Azle, Texas, at the age of 92. Born on December 29, 1932, in the small town of Chico, Texas, Mary was the cherished daughter of Joe Taylor Strain and Ada Russell Strain.

Mary grew up during the challenging era of the Great Depression, a time that instilled in her a profound appreciation for hard work, resilience, and the value of family. Raised on a peanut farm by devoted and loving parents, she flourished in a home steeped in strong morals and unwavering faith. Baptized as a child in the Baptist Church, Mary's faith became a cornerstone of her life, providing her with strength, guidance, and purpose.

A proud graduate of Chico High School, Class of 1949, Mary was known for her quick wit and radiant personality. She carried those same qualities into adulthood, touching the lives of everyone she met.

In 1963, Mary met the love of her life, James Hansel Jackson. Their romance blossomed, and on January 3, 1964, they began a life together as husband and wife. For 55 beautiful years, Mary and Hansel were inseparable companions, best friends, and each other's greatest confidants. Hansel's passing in 2019 left a void in Mary's heart, and she spoke of him with devotion every day thereafter.

Mary's family was her greatest pride and joy. She was a nurturing mother to her son, Randy and a doting grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Her love for her family was boundless, and she found immense happiness in creating cherished memories with them.

Mary possessed an extraordinary gift for storytelling. Her vibrant tales of her childhood, her mischievous escapades (including a watermelon heist that left a car stranded in a field), and the transformation of her beloved town of Azle captivated everyone. She had a penchant for playful pranks and giving endearing nicknames, like the time her great-granddaughter Alexis became affectionately known as "Pill"—a name Alexis proudly introduced herself with.

Her joy for life was evident in her passions. Mary adored quilting, dining out, and solving puzzles, trivia, and game shows, especially her beloved Wheel of Fortune. A true sports enthusiast, she cheered fervently for the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas City Chiefs. Her love for country music and old gospel hymns provided the soundtrack to her life, often filling her home with their comforting melodies.

Mary is survived by her son, Randy Lanier and grandson, Sheldon Lanier (and his wife, Kimberly); her granddaughters, Vicki Townley (and her husband, Robert) and Presley Coiner (and her husband, David); her great-grandchildren, Alexis Sexton (and her husband, Andrew), Tryston Lanier, Luke Townley, Elliot Coiner, Asa Coiner, and Eliza Mae Coiner; and her great-great-grandsons, Nash Sexton and Truett Sexton. She also leaves behind her beloved brother, Jerry Strain.

She is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Hansel; her parents, Joe and Ada; her daughter, Vickie Lanier; her siblings, Pearl, Grace, and Jimmy; and her grandson, Sully Lanier.

Mary's legacy is one of love, laughter, and faith. She taught her family the importance of kindness, humor, and embracing life's simple joys. She will be remembered as a beacon of light whose warmth and laughter could brighten even the darkest of days.

A celebration of Mary's remarkable life will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at Azleland Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. in the Azle Chapel, followed by a funeral service at 10 a.m. Interment will take place immediately after in the serene grounds of Azleland Cemetery.

Mary Louise Jackson's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She was truly one of a kind—a treasure, a storyteller, and a beloved soul whose love will echo through generations.