Obituary of Denise E. Fitch-Jackson

Denise E. Fitch-Jackson Age 69 of Elmira, NY. She was born July 12, 1954 in Elmira, daughter of the late William A. and Sarah E. (Seals) Fitch and passed away Saturday, October 21, 2023 unexpectedly at home. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister Regina K. Fitch; brother William A. Fitch, Jr and son-in-love Narciso "Jay" Perez. She is survived by her husband of 25 years, Willie L. Jackson; children Alexander L. (Lawanda) Robinson, Dr. Ada Robinson-Perez (Samuel Wealth), Dia, Keita, Issa (Kyle) & Faraji Jackson and Tanura Moss-Schultz (Willie Schultz); a host of 19 grandchildren and one great grandchild, Karson Jay Robinson; siblings Robert Fitch and Ramona (Lee) Bryant; a matriarch of the family, she had a host of nieces and nephews including Sonya, Tiffany (Randy) Huffner and Caitlin, Dylan, Tyrell, and Marcal Fitch. As a member of Word of Faith COGIC, her profound church life began when she accepted Jesus as her personal Lord and Savior on October 29, 1978 at Faith Temple COGIC, where her ministry began. With a deep belief in service expanding beyond the brick and mortar of church, Denise with her beloved husband were relentless in being present in the community in the following ways: • Cofounders of the Elmira/Corning Juneteenth Celebration (which began in June 2000), where Denise was known for spearheading the free meals offered to every child who attended this annual event. • Leading food and school supply/clothing drives ("Fuzzy Hands & Warm Feet") to support the Elmira Community Kitchen and local city schools. • Prepared and served holiday dinners to veterans housed at the Bath VA in Bath, NY. • Most recently began leading bible study with residents at Woodbrook Assisted Living Residence in Elmira. • And with impeccable sewing skills and a passion for embroidery, Denise made dresses for girls to Haiti; gifted embroidered blankets, towels, and aprons; and created Chemo Gift Bags and Chemo Pillow Ports which she donated to local cancer centers. Denise's most notable ministry is in her home where she victoriously declares the blessings and favor of God to cover her 7 adult children, 19 grandchildren and one great- grandson. She takes no credit for the successes in her life, but humbly proclaims, "it's by the grace of God that these things have been accomplished and that we are able to labor for His glory" I Corinthians 10:31. Family and friends are invited to visit Faith Temple Community Church, 765 Harper St., Elmira on Saturday, October 28th from 12 to 1 pm. Her funeral service will follow at 1 pm. Elder Pendexter Mack will officiate. Committal prayers and interment will be at the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Denise may forward donations to the Elmira Community Kitchen, 215 E. Church St., Elmira, NY 14901.