Obituary

Mary Everidge, born to Rosa and Earl Jackson on December 2, 1948, in Little Rock, Arkansas, peacefully passed away. At the age of 10, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, with her mother and brother, Donald Joe, and was lovingly raised by her stepfather, Elijah Combs, and mother. Mary’s life was enriched by stepbrothers and stepsisters from this union, forming a bond she cherished.  The family became integral   members of Morning Star Baptist Church, known affectionately as “just family.”

Mary, a graduate of Downtown Tulsa Central in 1967, was a dedicated mother of two by 1970. Despite her responsibilities, she persevered, completing Okmulgee Tech with Honors in Accounting. She received her Associate Degree in Human Services from Tulsa Junior College in 1993. She went on the attend Langston University where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services. Her career journey included roles at the Tulsa City County Health Department, Tulsa Junior College, Salvation Army, and Tulsa Public Schools.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Mary’s true passion lay in serving the youth. As a devoted youth director in her church, she lived by the principle “spare the rod, spoil the child,” emphasizing discipline and love. Mary’s commitment extended to her own children, expecting good behavior and imparting valuable life lessons.

Mary’s life took a beautiful turn when she met Joseph “Chico” Everidge, her true love 31 years ago. She dedicated herself to supporting her     husband, often speaking on his behalf. Her enthusiasm for her work at Tulsa Public Schools was evident through daily sharing of experiences with family members.

In her later years, Mary took on the responsibility of assisting in raising her great-grandchildren. Alongside Chico, she ensured they had a solid foundation by prioritizing education, completing homework, and enjoying nourishing meals. Mary’s culinary skills were exceptional, reflecting her dedication to providing for her family.

Though petite in stature, Mary stood tall in her convictions. She instilled in her family the understanding that everyone is a creation of God, discouraging any jokes about physical appearances. Her teachings emphasized leaving vengeance to the Lord.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Rosa, Earl and Elijah and brother, Donald Joe Jackson Sr.  She leaves behind cherished memories and will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Joseph “Chico” Everidge, daughter Corrina Jackson (Samuel Evans), son Daryl Jackson (Barbara Pizana), grandchildren, Lakisha, Charbre’ Breanne, Darryl Jr., Tatyana, Lovelle, Loreal, Dar’Quarius, Dar’Quavion, and great-grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends.  May she rest in eternal peace.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 15th from 3pm-7pm at Butler-Stumpff and Dyer Funeral Home.

Services will be held on Saturday, March 16th at 11AM at Morning Star Baptist Church.