On Wednesday, May 4, 1932, Helen Joyce Terrell was born to Charlie Terrell in Woodworth, Rapides Parish, Central Louisiana, near Alexandria. She was the ninth of thirteen children born into the large Terrell family.
Helen attended Peabody School in Alexandria and later moved with her family to Houston, Texas, where she found employment at Pasadena General Hospital. Shortly thereafter, she met and married Tilmon “Fred,” affectionately known as Uncle “Say-Ray” Jackson, who became the love of her life. The couple relocated to San Diego, California, with their young sons, Marcellus (Marc) and Merlin (Mert), seeking a better life. A few years later, their third son, Todd Avery, joined the growing Jackson family, creating a lively, sports-centered household.
Helen, also known as “The Cita,” was a spirited, devoted woman of faith. She united with Mt. Erie Baptist Church, where she faithfully served for nearly 60 years. Her service included roles as Sanctuary Choir Alto Section Leader, Matron, Youth Supervisor, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, and Deaconess assisting with Communion and Baptism. She also participated in BTU, the Progressive Baptist District Association Mini Congress, and state and national Baptist conventions.
Trained by Willie Morrow, renowned entrepreneur and inventor of the California Curl, Helen became one of the first licensed female barbers serving the San Diego Black community. Known affectionately as “Lady J,” she provided hair care for neighbors, the sick, and shut-in, often working late into the night in the family garage while hosting community fellowship at their Beverly Street home.
“The Cita” had a heart for mentoring, lovingly referring to younger women as “lil’ girl.”
Alongside her husband, she organized church outings, conferences, and family trips, often chauffeured by Deacon Jackson in their camper motor home. Together, they faithfully served their church and community, including transporting church members to services each Sunday.
Helen passed away on December 27, 2025.
Helen was preceded in death by her husband Tilmon Jackson, sons; Marcellus, Merlin, and Todd, her parents, six brothers, and six sisters.
She leaves to cherish her memory two goddaughters; Gracie Vaden and Charlene Lemons, Godson, Marlon Scott, granddaughter Taj Jackson, grandson Dante Lemons, three sisters-in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who celebrate her devoted Christian life.