Vennie Jackson, Courtesy

The Epsilon Beta Chapter of National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. is partnering with the family of Ms. Vennie Lee Jackson in celebrating her 100th birthday in Tyler, on Saturday, Sept. 1, at 4:30 p.m. at Hollytree Country Club, 6700 Hollytree Drive. The attire is dressy. Ladies may wear their fabulous hats.

Soror Vennie Lee Jackson was born in Flint, on Sept. 11, 1918. She was born the second of 12 children. She had no children of her own, but was a mother to many, including her own siblings. She is the only survivor of the 12. She also served many students as a seventh and eighth grade English teacher at Whitehouse ISD for 37 years until she retired in 1987.

Ms. Jackson is a Charter Member of the Epsilon Beta Chapter of NSPDK, which was chartered on January 19, 1985. She was the very first correspondence secretary. She currently serves as first vice president, scholarship chair and wherever needed. She rarely ever misses a chapter meeting as well as regional conferences and conclaves. She attended our last conclave in Little Rock in 2017. She is very active in various other organizations, including her church, College Hill Baptist Church, where she has been a member for 71 years. She loves volunteering her services and helping other people. She has served as a volunteer with ETMC/UTHealth Center for many years. She says staying busy and active is a key to her longevity. She also takes her daily three mile walks.

Mayor Martin Heines has officially proclaimed Sept. 11, 2018, as Vennie Lee Jackson Day in the city of Tyler. and encourages all citizens to celebrate her achievements and service on that day and throughout the year.