Berniece Jackson

Heaven gained one of its wittiest, most beautiful and warmest souls when Berniece Jackson passed peacefully, leaving behind a life filled with laughter, love, and hard work. 

Born and raised in southeastern Idaho, Berniece graduated from Grace High School, where she was a proud cheerleader who could light up a gymnasium with her smile. After high school, she attended Grimm’s School of Business in Pocatello, a decision that led her to her first career at Allis Chalmers Tractor Company, where she worked for more than 20 years.

It was there, on her walks to work, that she caught the attention of a young man named Verlon Jackson, who offered her rides in his shiny maroon Ford. As Berniece liked to tease, “I might’ve fallen for the car at first, but I stayed for the man.” The two married and built a partnership that would last a lifetime in work, in love, and in laughter.

After retiring from Allis Chalmers, Berniece joined Verlon in running the Jackson family farm, where they raised crops, cattle, and countless stories together. They farmed many acres for decades before downsizing in the early 1970s to their beloved five-acre parcel, a place that remained home for both of them the rest of their days.

In the 1990s, Berniece and Verlon were invited by Leon Manning to join the staff at Colonial Funeral Home as funeral ambassadors. Berniece often said this was some of the most fulfilling work of her life, helping people through their hardest days. Later, they joined Wilks Funeral Home, where they served families for years, always refusing pay because, as they said, “We just want to help.” Their kindness and generosity became a quiet legacy that touched hundreds of lives.

You could never say “Verlon” without saying “Berniece.” They were truly a pair, walking the Pine Ridge Mall every morning, laughing with fellow “morning walkers,” and visiting their favorite eateries like Burger King, The Sizzler, and an all-time favorite, the “MAN-DARREN House.” We still smile remembering how they mispronounced many spots in town. Fred Meyer was “Freddy Mayor,” and Golden Corral was affectionately called “The Feeding Trough.” Together Verlon and Berniece attended the Dodge National Circuit Finals Rodeo each year it was hosted in Pocatello. They never missed a single event.

Berniece had a sharp wit and a sparkle in her eye. She could make anyone laugh, and she wasn’t afraid to deliver a clever zinger or an unexpected innuendo to lighten a room. Her humor was matched only by her strength and independence, the same qualities that had her moving irrigation pipe well into her 90s.

She and Verlon shared a deep love for their Thunderbirds, purchasing a new one nearly every year from 1957 through the late 1960s. Berniece proudly reminded anyone who’d listen that they had the very first 1957 pink Thunderbird in Pocatello, and if you ever heard her describe that particular shade of pink, you’d never forget it.

Berniece was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Her faith was her quiet anchor, and she often spoke of her gratitude for the blessings of her life and her eternal marriage. She and Verlon were sealed in the Idaho Falls Temple in 1953, beginning a marriage that would last over 63 years here on earth and continue eternally beyond the veil. Berniece found great comfort in knowing that one day she would be reunited with her eternal companion, Verlon, whom she missed every single day.

Berniece loved deeply and laughed often. She and Verlon’s love story, built on humor, hard work, and partnership, continues to inspire all who knew them.

Although Verlon and Berniece were never blessed with children they are survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W Chubbuck Road, Chubbuck, ID. A viewing will be held prior beginning at 10:00 am. Burial will follow the service at Mountain View Cemetery, 1520 S 5th Avenue, Pocatello, ID.

Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting the Guestbook below.