Warnell Jackson-Avgoulas

Warnell Jackson Avgoulas went home to be with our Lord on August 11, 2025, in her hometown, Montclair, New Jersey. She was born on April 27, 1944, to Robert Lee and Ola Mae Jackson in Statesboro, Georgia. From her earliest years, she carried with her a spirit that was caring, cheerful, giving, and deeply loving. In the 1970s, Warnell lived in Manhattan on 106th Street, where she met her dear friend of fifty years, Gail Brown. By the late 1980s, she made Montclair her home, a community she would grow to love and serve for the remainder of her life. Those who knew Warnell could see her kindness and generosity shine through in her everyday acts of compassion toward family, friends, and neighbors.
Her love for people expressed itself in many ways. She devoted much of her time to working in roles that allowed her to give back to the community. She worked as a caregiver and volunteered regularly at charity events. She also served with the Board of Elections, faithfully encouraging others to exercise their right to vote. One of her most cherished jobs was being a crossing guard in Montclair. In that role, Warnell took joy in helping children cross safely, inspiring them to enjoy both school and life. She also poured her heart into babysitting, nourishing the minds and bodies of many children, often reminding those around her with the words: “We have to pray for children all over the world.”
Outside of her work, Warnell was a passionate sports fan. She delighted in cheering for the Yankees, the Knicks, and tennis, attending games whenever she could. These moments of joy reflected her vibrant spirit and love of life.
Her faith, however, was the true cornerstone of her life. In 1994, Warnell became a member of Christ Church in Montclair, where she faithfully served for decades. She was an Usher and part of the Communion Ministry, roles in which she joyfully welcomed others into worship. She also joined the Performing Arts and Drama Ministry, where she played a leading role in the stage play “Eternity.” This production had a profound spiritual impact, with a record-breaking number of guests dedicating their lives to Christ. Additionally, Warnell served in the Visitation Ministry, the Joy Ministry, and regularly prayed for the sick and her fellow members. She was deeply devoted to prayer, calling herself blessed that God had led her to Christ Church. She often said, “Christ Church is my home.” Even as her health declined, Warnell stayed connected by serving as an apprentice in her Small Group and faithfully watching services online.
Warnell’s family was the joy of her heart. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Lee and Ola Mae Jackson, and her sisters Carrie Mae Swan, Mandy Lou Jackson, Robbie Merrell, Leola Jackson, and Judy Faye Heath. She was married to George Avgoulas, who shared in her journey. She is survived by her sisters, Catherine Ali of Delaware and Mildred Pierce of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, her daughters Geraldine Jackson and Roberta, “Cookie,” Jones, along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and countless beloved friends.
To all who knew her, Warnell was a woman of faith, generosity, and prayer. She carried herself with kindness, found joy in service, and faithfully lifted others before the Lord. Her life touched countless lives, and her legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire her family, friends, and church community for years to come.