Nancy Ferrin Jackson was born on September 30, 1948, in Pratt, Kansas, to Virginia “Honey” and Eugene Ferrin. She was preceded in death by her older brother and sister-in-law, Eugene “Butch” and Ruth Ann Ferrin, and her younger brother, Mike Ferrin. She passed away on February 7, 2026, with her husband, David Michael Jackson by her side.

Nancy graduated from the University of North Texas in 1972 with a degree in sociology and began her career as a history teacher at Skyline High School that same year. In 1973, while pursuing her graduate degree in school counseling, she met the love of her life, David, a meeting that would shape the rest of her life. They married on August 24, 1974, beginning a partnership that spanned more than five decades and was marked by adventure, laughter, and steadfast devotion

She completed her master’s degree in 1976 and began her counseling career in Garland before joining Newman Smith High School in 1985. Nancy served the Trojan community for much of her career, retiring from Carrollton Farmers Branch after more than 30 years of service. Whether cheering on her high school students or Baylor women’s basketball, she was always faithful to the “Green and Gold.”

Nancy was organized, thoughtful, and the ultimate planner. To know Nancy was to have a dependable friend and a fierce advocate. An avid reader, she often rotated between a book on her Kindle, one on her bedside table, and others waiting nearby. She expressed her care for family through meals prepared with precision, following each recipe carefully and executing it flawlessly. Fresh flowers brightened her home each week, and she never missed an opportunity to pause and appreciate a sunset. She delighted in decorating for holidays — Halloween in particular — not for the spooky or macabre, but for the joy of seeing children dressed up and expressing their individuality. She treasured laughter, especially from comedians like Robin Williams, and her radiant smile will not be forgotten.

Nancy took great pride in her daughters Jordan, her wife, Bess, and Jay. She guided them wholeheartedly and created a home grounded in acceptance and belonging. She cherished her nieces and nephews, who affectionately called her “Cee Cee,” and she held their children close to her heart as if they were her own grandchildren. Her affection extended to animals as well, particularly her beloved dogs, Peggy Jo and Bobbie Jean, who gave great comfort and companionship.

Travel brought Nancy tremendous happiness. She explored Europe with curiosity and awe; relaxing in the elegance of the Isle of Capri, strolling through Monet’s Gardens and the beaches of Normandy, and taking in the beauty of Mykonos were among her favorite memories. She treasured traveling to London to take Jay for her semester abroad. A longtime goal of hers was realized in 2025 when she experienced the wonder of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta as part of a trip celebrating her and David’s 51st wedding anniversary.

Nancy also held a deep appreciation for the arts and live performance. Having seen too many Broadway shows to count, she relished in performances such as Bernadette Peters in Gypsy, Alan Cumming in Cabaret, and Neil Patrick Harris in Hedwig. Over the years, she attended remarkable concerts and created lasting memories at shows featuring James Taylor, Tina Turner, Cher, Ella Fitzgerald, and Aretha Franklin. She even had the opportunity to meet the Divine Miss M herself, Bette Midler.

Above all, Nancy championed others. She loved freely, stood firmly for inclusion, and advocated for dignity and respect for all people — particularly members of the LGBTQIA community. She believed in celebrating individuals exactly as they are.

Her legacy lives on in the students she mentored, the family she treasured, and the many lives she influenced with her generosity, conviction, and steady support. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A Celebration of Nancy’s life will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Central Presbyterian Church, 9191 Woodway Drive, Woodway, Texas 76712. Family and friends are invited to gather for a reception immediately following at The Palladium, 729 Austin Avenue, Waco, Texas 76701.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fuzzy Friends Rescue, P.O. Box 20966, Waco, Texas 76702.