Jackie Ilene Elliott, 78, of Roby, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on Dec. 29, 1946, in Palace, Missouri, Jackie was the beloved daughter of Volney and Hildreth (Wade) Merida.
On Aug. 7, 1970, she married the love of her life, George Elliott. Together, they shared 54 beautiful years of unwavering devotion and partnership. They were truly each other’s rock — steadfast companions in life’s journey.
Jackie was a talented and hardworking seamstress who dedicated 30 years to Rawlings in Licking, Missouri. Retirement didn’t slow her down; she returned to work at TAG, continuing to share her skill and strong work ethic for several more years.
Jackie had a generous spirit and a heart for her community. She often donated handmade quilts and baked goods to local benefits, always eager to help where she could. Her hands were rarely still — she found joy in sewing, gardening, canning and watching hummingbirds dance around her yard. She was always up for an adventure and never missed an opportunity to travel. Whenever someone mentioned a trip, she’d reach for her atlas with a sparkle in her eye, eagerly mapping out the route.
Above all else, Jackie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend. She is survived by her husband, George; her children, David (Melissa) Elliott of St. James, Sherri (Dena) Messer of Clever, Samantha (Darren) Whaley of Roby and Shannon (Albert) Phegley of Roby; her siblings, Michael and Patricia Merida; her grandchildren, Austin (Carla) Elliott, Dillon (LeaAndrea) Calhoun, Morgan (Daniel) Breedlove, Kirsten Smith, and Madison (Mason) Brock, Alvin Phegley, Sara (Blake) Hodge, Katelynn (Nate) Yates, Jameson Whaley, Aiden Whaley; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Mason, Westin, Alyssa, Kaleb, Ashlynn, Cole, Anna, Adaline, Whitley, Austin, Sage, Waylon, Beckem and Summit.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Volney and Hildreth Merida; her parents-in-law, Sam and Ollie Elliott; and many dear friends she loved like family.
Jackie was the glue that held her family together. Her love was fierce, selfless and unconditional. She was deeply loved and will be forever missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Palace Cemetery, in honor of Jackie’s giving spirit and enduring connection to her roots.
A visitation for Jackie was held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Evans Chapel. A funeral was held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Palace Church with burial following at the Palace Cemetery. Funeral Arrangements were under the care and direction of Evans Funeral Home of Houston. Online condolences may be left at evansfh.com.
