Ms. Carola Melinda Jackson, 51, of West End, North Carolina entered into eternal rest on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, North Carolina. 

Carola Melinda Jackson, age 51, of Pinehurst, NC, peacefully passed away on January 19, 2025, at 6:00 PM at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, surrounded by her loving  family.

Born on February 26, 1973, Carola was the cherished daughter of Sarah Elizabeth Wallace and Theodore Wallace. She grew up in West End, North Carolina, attending Pinecrest High School,  where she graduated in 1992. Her love for sports and leadership flourished early and carried her to Fayetteville State University in 1995, and she proudly played the sport she adored, softball.

Melinda was a beacon of kindness, known for her quiet strength, loving spirit, and heart of gold. She lived for the joy of her two daughters, L’Asia and Aniyah Jackson, whom she proudly called  her greatest accomplishments.

Her career reflected her passion for community and youth development. Melinda dedicated over a decade to Moore County Schools as a bus driver and cafeteria staff member. She also made a  lasting impact through her work with Moore County Parks and Recreation, where she coached, refereed, and kept time, spreading her love for sports to countless young athletes.

She is survived by her beloved parents, Sarah and Theodore Wallace; her daughters, L’Asia Monee’ Jackson and Aniyah Chantel Jackson; her brothers, Willie Lee Cole Jr. (Tiffany) and Charles  Edward Jackson; her nieces, Kellie Nelson (Antonio), Imani Cole, and Alexis Cole; her nephews, Charles Jackson, Jr. “CJ” and Arsenio Cole; her godchildren, Myrtith Monroe, Jr. and McKenzie  Nelson; a special son, Darryl McCaster, Jr. (Sky); her cousins, who she loved deeply; and many great-nieces and nephews who she also cherished.

Melinda was preceded in death by her sister, Wanda Faye Jackson, her grandparents, Eula Mae and Tommie Ross, her birth father, Willie James Jackson, and many aunts and uncles who  welcomed her home with open arms at the Pearly Gates.

Melinda’s love, dedication, and quiet-strength legacy will live on in all who knew her. Her family, friends, and community will forever cherish many fond memories of her

Please keep the family and friends of Ms. Carola Melinda Jackson in your thoughts and prayers. 

Arrangements are entrusted to McLeod Funeral Home of Southern Pines, North Carolina.