Gertrude “Trudy” Jackson

Former Eastsound resident Gertrude “Trudy” Jackson, 90, died Dec. 21, 2004 at Providence Hospital, Anchorage, Alaska, after a brief illness.

Trudy was born on Camano Island Sept. 14, 1914. Her early years were spent with her parents Capt. William Harnden and wife Gertrude, and her brothers and sisters, on Sucia Island in the San Juan Islands. She attended school on Orcas Island, graduated from Fairhaven High School, and attended college in Bellingham. Trudy lived in Seattle and Torrance, Calif. In 1972 she and husband, Charles Jackson, retired and moved to Eastsound. Trudy spent her most recent years with her son in Coos Bay Ore. and her daughter in Anchorage.

Trudy was a dental assistant in the 1950s. She volunteered throughout her life with the VFW, PTA, and Walteria Methodist Church, where she became a lifetime member of the Women’s Society of Christian Service. She was a member of the Orcas Island Seniors, the Orcas Lions, and the American Legion. After moving to Anchorage, she joined Jewel Lake Parish. She spent her life in service to others, and was loved by all.

Trudy had many who called her Mom, or Grandma. She loved traveling, books, crocheting and cooking. Renowned for her baking skills, her chocolate brownies were in great demand. She freely gave her love, quiet spirit, and strength to everyone in her life. Her family will always miss her cheerful smile and willing heart.

Survivors include son Dale Kinyon, of Coos Bay; daughter and son-in-law Joy and Bill Potts, of Anchorage; grandchildren Bud Kinyon, Robert Kinyon, Sally Gifford, Wendy Fossum, Colleen Coulter, William Potts, and Jennifer Whiting; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Capt. and Mrs. William Harnden, former husband Mars Kinyon, husband Charles Jackson, and son David.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Orcas Lions, American Legion or Orcas Island Seniors.