It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Arlene Elliott Jackson, age 83, on January 11, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born in South Carolina on January 19, 1941, Arlene was the daughter of the late Hosea and Elizabeth Elliott. She was the youngest of six siblings: Forest Elliott, Myrtle Case, Ruth Townsend, Mildred Howie, Gene Dawsey, and Bryan Elliott, all of whom predeceased her.

Arlene's early years were spent in the close-knit Duford Community, where she graduated from Floyds High School. Her love of learning led her to Limestone College, where she majored in science. After graduation, Arlene embarked on a career in education. She taught at Floyds and at many international schools. Her passion for teaching was evident in the lives of the students she impacted.

Arlene married the love of her life, Jim Jackson, and together they shared more than 50 years of marriage, building a strong partnership founded on love, respect, and unwavering commitment. Their journey took them far from South Carolina, as they lived in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and El Salvador, raising their daughters Jada and Jill and providing adventures and opportunities along the way. Her ability to adapt to different cultures and communities was a testament to her character and spirit.

After retiring, Arlene and Jim returned to South Carolina, where Arlene devoted herself to caring for her beloved husband during his illness. She was a loving and devoted mother to Jada (married to Todd Kellison) and Jill (widow to William Jeter, III). Arlene's grandchildren, Bontu Kellison, Jackson Jeter, and Isabella Jeter, were the light of her life, and she treasured every moment she spent with them.

Throughout her life, Arlene was known for her kindness and generosity. She was a constant source of strength to her family and friends, always putting others before herself. Her devotion to her family was boundless, and she will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her warm smile, and her deep love for those she held dear. Arlene also leaves behind a large extended family of nieces, nephews, and close friends, all of whom were cherished by her. Her legacy of love, compassion, and service will live on through the many lives she touched.

A celebration of Arlene's life will be held in the chapel of Meares Funeral Home in Mullins, SC on Saturday, January 18th at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in her memory to the Horry County School Teacher Scholarship Fund, Attn: Ms. Tommi Glover, 335 Four Mile Road, Conway, SC 29565 or We Can Help Organization, Attn: Mr. Frank Anderson, 1152 Oakbrook Way NE, Brookhaven, GA 30319, which provides aid to those in need in Venezuela.

Arlene is now at peace, reunited with her parents, her husband and siblings, but the impact of her life will not fade. She was a shining example of grace, faith, and love, and her memory will continue to inspire.