Zoe Mozelle Lanier Jackson's Obituary
Zoë Mozelle Lanier Jackson, of Germantown, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, with her daughter, Joy, by her side.
Born on October 12, 1940, in Los Angeles, California, Zoë lived a life defined by love, curiosity, kindness, and an unwavering devotion to her family. She was a beloved wife, mother, Mimi, sister, friend, and teacher whose warmth, compassion, and joyful spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.
As an educator, Zoë believed learning should be meaningful, engaging, and fun. She had a remarkable gift for inspiring curiosity in her students and wanted every child who entered her classroom to discover a love of learning that would last a lifetime. In her retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at the Church Health Center and tutoring through Team Read.
Outside the classroom, Zoë embraced life with enthusiasm. She loved traveling, tending her garden, reading, visiting museums and the theater, shopping, and gathering with family and friends. She especially enjoyed taking long walks, finding peace in nature and appreciating the beauty in everyday moments. Above all, she treasured the time she spent on "adventures" with her grandson, Eli. Whether exploring somewhere new or simply sharing everyday moments, those memories became some of her greatest joys.
Zoë had a generous heart, and a genuine interest in others. She was known for the thoughtful handwritten notes she sent to encourage, comfort, or simply let someone know they were loved. She had a gift for making people feel seen and appreciated, and her kindness, grace, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
She is survived by her daughter, Joy Copous (Dale); her grandson, Eli Copous; her sister, Gail Spiller (Larry); her nieces and nephews, Jim, Anna, Claire, Neil, and Ashley, along with their families; and her cherished best friend of more than 65 years, Barbara Whitmire. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Carness P. Jackson and her parents Walter and Marjorie Lanier.
Zoë's family will remember her as a woman who loved deeply, laughed often, and gave generously of herself. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped as a teacher, the friendships she nurtured, the heartfelt notes she wrote, and the unconditional love she gave to her family. Though she will be deeply missed, her example of kindness, curiosity, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A visitation and memorial service will be held on August 1, 2026, at 11:00 am at Germantown United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics of Greater Memphis or WKNO in Zoë's memory.
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