Sarah Jacqueline Lussardi Lawson Pate, affectionately known as Jackie to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2024, in her hometown of Spartanburg, SC. Born on September 25, 1940, Jackie's life was a testament to her loving nature, her kindness, and her intelligence which touched everyone she knew.
Jackie dedicated her professional life to the care of others, serving diligently as the Head Nurse of the Newborn Unit at Spartanburg Regional Hospital. Her gentle touch and warm presence were a comfort to countless new lives and their families, marking the beginning of many journeys with hope and care. Jackie's commitment to her work was paralleled only by her devotion to her faith, as a member of the First Baptist North Spartanburg, where she found strength and community.
Her interests extended beyond her professional and spiritual life into the heart of her home. Jackie was a loving figure who found joy in spending time with her family, including her daughter-in-law Patricia Lawson, grandson Dustin Lawson, sister Sandra Bowers, and a host of nieces and nephews who cherished her presence in their lives. Her nieces Diane (Terry) Kuykendall, Laura Ridenhour Pearce, Amanda Ridenhour, great nieces Rachel Theo, Kristen Theo, great-great nieces Chadee (Jacob) Calderone, Layla Morris and her nephews Rickey (Linda) Millwood, Terry Millwood, and Michael Bowers all held a special place in her heart.
Jackie's love extended to her furry companions, and she was known for taking exceptional care of her cats, who provided her with comfort and companionship through the years. Her home was a haven of warmth and kindness, reflecting the essence of who she was.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son Derrick Lawson, her father Clyde Lussardi, her mother Evie Lussardi, her sister Shirley Millwood, and her spouse Lyle Lawson. The legacy of Jackie's love and nurturing spirit lives on through her family, who will continue to honor her memory by embodying the values she holds dear.
Her life was a beautiful illustration of one person's impact on so many. Jackie's ability to connect with people, her unwavering support, and her insightful guidance will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kind and intelligent approach to life's challenges was a source of inspiration, and her memory will be cherished in the stories that will continue to be told by those who love her.
As we say farewell to Jackie, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of love and service to others. Her presence will be profoundly missed, but the light she brought into this world will continue to shine in the hearts of her family and all who were graced by her kindness.
In honoring Jackie's life, we reflect on the words of Helen Keller: "What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Jackie will forever remain a part of us, her spirit a guiding light for generations to come.
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