November 24, 2025, 77, Goldsboro —
Rella Louise Jackson Jernigan, 77, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, November 24, 2025, surrounded by the love and devoted care of her sister. Born in Wayne County on November 15, 1948, she was the daughter of the late David Rose Jackson, Sr. and Louise Bailey Jackson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son, Dwight David Jernigan, and her brother, David Rose Jackson, Jr.
Rella dedicated her life to service—both professionally and within her community. She retired from the State of North Carolina after many years as a personnel assistant with the DART program at Cherry Hospital and the O’Berry Center. She later spent more than 14 years with Tropical Pools, where her strong work ethic, warm personality, and unwavering dependability made her deeply respected by colleagues and customers alike.
Known for her outgoing nature, Rella never met a stranger. She formed friendships easily and left a lasting impression on all who crossed her path. Her great personality and genuine kindness made her someone others were naturally drawn to. She was also an avid reader who loved getting lost in a good book, finding comfort and delight in the stories she explored.
Civically minded and committed to helping others, Rella worked in voter registration and faithfully served at the voting polls during election seasons. A woman of steadfast faith, she was a lifelong member of Falling Creek Baptist Church in the Grantham community, where her beliefs shaped her daily life and the compassion she extended to others. Her service reached well beyond her church—she was an active member of the Grantham Rescue Squad, proudly riding rescue for nine years, and volunteered with a local halfway house shelter. For over 20 years, she devoted herself to the Wayside Fellowship Home, offering encouragement, kindness, and a steady, helping hand to those in need.
The family will receive friends on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home, followed by a service celebrating Rella’s life at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel. Interment will follow at Wayne Memorial Park.
Above all, Rella cherished her family. She is survived by her devoted sister and caregiver, Jeanette Jackson; her treasured grandchildren, Kameron, Zoey, Tazia, and Tiara; and her great-grandchildren, Nataylia and Alanya, each of whom brought profound joy and meaning to her life. She is also survived by her extended family, the Jernigan family, along with many other beloved relatives. Her love for them was unwavering, and her presence will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Gentiva Hospice Staff for their excellent and compassionate care.
