Who is Lovey?

A Tribute to Lovey

Jackie Lynn Terrell-Jackson, also known as "Mrs. Jackie" was a woman whose entire life was a testament to love, compassion, and unwavering kindness. Born in Toledo, Ohio, and raised under the bright skies of Las Vegas, Lovey's journey into motherhood began at just 16 years old when she welcomed her first daughter. This early experience of nurturing and care set her on a path of selfless devotion to others, especially children.

The Origin of "Lovey"

"Lovey" wasn’t just a nickname; it was a title earned through years of unconditional love and care. This affectionate name was the name she chose to be called by her beloved grandchildren, who saw in her the very essence of warmth and kindness. To them, she wasn’t just Jackie Lynn; she was "Lovey"—the embodiment of pure, nurturing love. This name, which captures the very core of who she was, soon spread throughout the community, becoming synonymous with compassion and tenderness.

A Life Devoted to Caring for Others

Lovey began her career at the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), where she was deeply moved by the stories of children who were often lost in the foster care system, yearning for stability and love. She saw firsthand the urgent need for a nurturing environment where every child could feel safe, cherished, and truly seen. Determined to make a difference, Lovey left DCFS to open her own daycare, Jackson Family Daycare, right from her home.

Her daycare was far more than a business; it was a haven where children from all walks of life were welcomed with open arms. She had a special place in her heart for those in foster care or adopted, often taking them under her wing and treating them as her own. She was known in the neighborhood as "the lady in the big green van," often spotted with her daycare kids—children of all different races and ages—on trips around the city. People would frequently stop her and ask, "Wow, you sure have a big family! Are all of these your kids?" With a smile, she would warmly reply, "Of course they are! Come on, guys, smile." She would then add, "See, don’t we all have the same smile?" Her response always left people with a sense of joy and wonder, marveling at how someone could love so many children who were not her own by blood , but through love and connection.

A Legacy of Unconditional Love

Lovey's impact extended far beyond the walls of her daycare. She was a pillar of her community, known for her quiet acts of kindness and generosity. Whenever someone saw her big green van they knew there came the smiling lady with the larger than life personality. This was personified in many ways; Whether it was quietly paying for someone’s groceries, offering a comforting word to a stranger in line at Disneyland, or simply providing a warm meal to a child in need, Lovey’s actions spoke of a love that was both deep and wide. Her loss was felt profoundly by all who knew her because she wasn’t just a caregiver—she was the embodiment of kindness and love. To know Lovey was to feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for.

A Vision to Honor Her Legacy

Inspired by her journey as a young mother and her deep commitment to helping others, Lovey's Home Inc. dreams of expanding one day to provide housing specifically for young mothers and their children. This vision is rooted in Lovey's own experience and her heartfelt desire to give back to those who faced similar circumstances. Through love, compassion, and tangible support, we aim to honor her legacy by creating a space where young mothers can feel empowered, supported, and embraced, just as Lovey would have wanted.

The Heartbeat of Lovey's Home

Lovey’s spirit is the heartbeat of Lovey's Home Inc. Her unwavering commitment to love, kindness, and community is the foundation upon which we build our mission. We strive to continue her legacy every day by ensuring that every young person who walks through our doors feels the warmth, safety, and unconditional love that Lovey gave so freely.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Lovey. Her life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of kindness, and the difference one person can make in the world—one child, one smile, and one loving act at a time.