Burdette Fay Johnson Jackson, born November 1st, 1950, into a legacy anchored by her parents, Arnester Johnson Sr. and Thelma Johnson, who raised a strong and enduring family. She was surrounded by siblings whose names continue to echo through our lives and memories: Josephine Johnson Williams, Melvina Johnson, Arnester Johnson Jr., Calvin Johnson, Curtis David Johnson, Barnett Ray Johnson, who was her twin brother, and Orlando Carter Johnson. Each of them helped shape the family story that Fay carried with pride and purpose.

She grew up on the West Side of Chicago, attending Farragut High School, a place that helped form her independence and confidence. Like many during that time, she started working young, landing her first job at Spiegel's Catalog Warehouse, also on the West Side. From early on, Fay understood the value of hard work, self-sufficiency, and standing on her own two feet-always in good shoes, of course. She worked in various labor and factory positions throughout her life and eventually retired from Target in 2013 at the age of 63. No matter where she worked, she earned the respect of those around her through her determination, dependability, and strong work ethic.

In 1980, Fay moved to St. Paul with her husband, Herman Jackson (now divorced), to build a life and raise their four children. She made her home on the West Side of St. Paul, where she lived for the last 46 years. It was there that she created countless memories, built lifelong friendships, and raised a family rooted in love, strength, and resilience.

If you knew Fay, you knew her style. She had a high-end fashion sense that was simply unmatched. Shoes were her signature-intricate, bold, and expressive. With her small feet, she could slip perfectly into sample display shoes as if they had been custom made just for her. One particular pair of high heels-palm tree heels with an ankle strap, size 5½. Only Fay could wear them, and she wore them well.

Fay knew who she was. A woman of style, strength, discernment, resilience, and deep family roots. She chose her friends carefully, didn't try to fit in with everyone, and never hesitated to speak her truth. She was honest-sometimes blunt-but always authentic. What you saw was what you got, and there was comfort in that certainty.

She also possessed a strength that inspired everyone who knew her. In 2015, Fay was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the same courage and determination that defined every chapter of her life, she fought that battle with grace and perseverance. She was blessed to beat breast cancer and lived as a survivor for the next ten years, serving as an example of resilience and unwavering faith.

Above all else, Fay was devoted to her family. She leaves behind her beloved children: Darnell, James, Jermaine, and Bridgett; her cherished grandchildren, Damone Colvin, Bramira Johnson, and Peyton Johnson; her great-grandson, Carsyn Colvin; and her great-granddaughter, Breydi Johnson. She also leaves a host of beloved nieces and nephews who will carry with them the memories of her love, wisdom, and presence. Each of them carries forward a part of her spirit, her strength, and her love. 

Fay leaves behind more than memories of fashion, opinions, and sharp wit. She leaves behind a legacy of confidence, individuality, perseverance, and unwavering love for family. She taught us how to stand tall, speak clearly, work hard, face life's challenges with courage, and walk through life with intention-and great shoes.

Today, we celebrate her life, her spirit, and the indelible mark she leaves on all of us. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, her lessons, and the example she set will continue to live on through every life she touched.

Most importantly, Burdette accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, ensuring her eternal life with Christ. While we grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing that she now rests in His perfect peace.

Rest well, Fay. Your style, your voice, your strength, and your presence will never be forgotten.