After marrying and relocating to Fort Myers, Jackie and her husband, Jerry, were invited by friends to Covenant Presbyterian Church. As a young couple expecting their first child, they became members, and Covenant became their first church home. Jackie was eager to learn about God, and they soon committed fully, growing in faith and raising their two daughters in the Lord’s ways. When Covenant split, they moved with New Hope EPC. The church community, mentorship, and spiritual guidance over nearly 30 years deepened her love and service for God, fueling her passion for the transformative power of the local church.
With a background in education, Jackie naturally found joy in teaching and encouraging others. She began by teaching Sunday school and VBS to young children, learning Bible stories with her daughters. This passion grew into her own Sunday school and Bible study experiences, where God’s Word fulfilled His promise in 2 Timothy 3:16 to "teach, correct, and train." Jackie reflected, “I’ve been blessed to serve as an Elder, co-chair our church building committee, sing in Worship, and lead parents, but nurturing youth is closest to my heart. I often wonder what might have changed if my middle school faith spark was nurtured. It's gratifying to encourage our Common Ground Students in their faith through youth group, Retreats, and Mission Trips for over 15 years. God is SO FAITHFUL when we seek Him wholeheartedly! He grows our hearts to love Him and gives us the privilege to uplift others. Keep your heart open, friends. God uses our passions to serve His Church. Where is He calling you to serve others at New Hope or in our community, so they can discover Jesus, too?”
