Jackie Porter's Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Jackie Porter. She was born on March 27, 1932, and she passed away on May 31, 2025
Known affectionally by many names, Ms. Porter, Jackie, JAP, and JP, Jackie Porter was a beloved force of nature whose life was defined by loyalty, wit, ambition, and a fierce devotion to those she loved.
Born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Jackie moved as a young girl with her parents, the late Opal Porter-White and Jack Porter, to Fort Worth, TX. There, alongside her cherished sister Betty Jo, she was raised in a household where smarts and resourcefulness were in no short supply.
Jackie thrived in her formative years, where she cultivated a love for horses and animals. As a proud graduate of Northside High School in Fort Worth, TX., Jackie actively participated in numerous clubs, including FFA, Debate, and various honor societies. She maintained a place on the honor roll from elementary school through high school—a testament to her diligence and bright intellect.
After graduating and receiving her degree from North Texas State University (now the University of North Texas), Jackie explored modeling and retail before beginning what would become a trailblazing career with American Airlines and Sabre. It was evident from the start, and with over 40 years devoted to her passion for the airline industry, she quickly rose through the ranks, breaking barriers and paving the way for women in the corporate airline industry. Working at the center of travel technology, Jackie’s innovative work with travel agencies and her leadership in managing government contracts earned her widespread recognition—including the rare distinction of being named one of the Top 10 Businessmen in the Metroplex.
Jackie’s legacy is one of bold ambition, resilience, and groundbreaking achievement—but also of loyalty, kindness, and enduring friendship. She loved her pups and cats, days on the lake, camping, fishing, the Merry Maids golf tournaments, a good book and even a bad one, Opal’s potatoes, a cold Coke, an even colder beer, J&B, and anything the love of her life, Julie, would cook for her. Together for nearly 60 years, Jackie and Julie were a testament to enduring love, shared laughter and an open home to family and friends.
Jackie is survived by her beloved Julie, Sister Betty (Wayne) Cunningham, Sister-In-Law Josefina Flores, Son-in-Law Joe Casseb. Nieces Frances Colon, Marisa Flores, Roxanne Casseb-Murray (Kevin), Cathy Romack, Gary Cunningham (Michael), Tommy Cunningham, Betty Jayne Doherty, Gayle Shank and Sandy Riley, great-nephew Javier A. Colon in addition to 19 grand-nieces and nephews.
We would like to thank the compassionate care given by the team at UT **Southwestern, Dr. Gangavati,M.D., Mihoko Abegunde N.P., Julia and her team at Hospice Plus and Jackie’s Angels: Esther, Skuddy and Pat, for your dedication and continued loving care you provided Jackie and her family.
A private family service will be held to honor Jackie’s life.
Thoughts and memories may be shared at: https://www.restlandfuneralhome.com/obituaries/jackie-porter-2
*A memorial service for Jackie will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the SPCA of Dallas (https://spca.org) in Jackie’s name or any Animal Rescue program of your choice.
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