I have the miserable duty to inform our Parish Family of the passing of one of our most joyous, loving, and caring members of the staff, Jackie Gibson. Many of you may know her as Jackie, the Gift Shop Lady. Jackie came to St. John well over two decades ago, and just like so many others, she saw a need. The church did not have a truly functional gift shop, where people could purchase religious items and sacramentals to enhance their worship and faithful lives. Instead of just giving the suggestion, however, she rolled up her sleeves and built the gorgeous Gift Boutique we all now love.
Her dedication was only matched by her warmth. I remember that Jackie was actually the first person to personally welcome my family to St. John when we moved down here six years ago. My little children were being antsy, as many young ones are in the pews. I took them for a walk towards the bathrooms and we entered the Gift Boutique. Instead of ignoring us, or simply waving from behind the cash register, Jackie went out of her way to walk around the counter, bend down, and welcome each of my children with a smile. She gave them all a little trinket and thanked us for coming to church. It was a moment I will cherish forever, especially now that she is gone.
Please join the Parish Staff and Clergy in prayers for Jackie and her family. She will always be in our hearts. Services will be held on Tuesday, December 6, her birthday.