Jere Jill Rankin's Obituary
Jere Jill Rankin, resident of Garland, TX, went to be with her Lord on March 4, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born May 9, 1947, in Jacksonville, TX, to Marian and Wallace Johnson. Jill's life was marked by her strong will, feisty spirit and unwavering independence. From a young age, she was known for speaking her mind and standing firm in her beliefs, traits that would define her throughout her life.
Jill's influence on the youth in her community was profound. She dedicated herself to guiding and mentoring young people, always making time to ensure they were on the right path. Her advice was never sugar-coated; she was blunt and direct but always delivered her guidance with love and care. Her honesty and openness were among her most admirable qualities, earning her the respect and admiration of all who knew her.
Jill had a unique style in decorating which she enjoyed and loved. Her meticulous nature extended to her home, where she maintained a spotless environment, reflecting her appreciation for cleanliness and order. Jill enjoyed making and collecting dolls which she displayed throughout her house. She loved to display all her holiday decorations around her house with flourish. She also loved 70's and 80's dance music which was a constant source of joy in her life. She was often found singing and dancing to her favorite tunes while she vacuumed her house.
Jill enjoyed being outdoors nurturing her rose garden as well as her vegetable garden and tending to her herbs. She was also known for her enthusiastic shopping spree on QVC, always finding the perfect items to brighten her home and the lives of those around her.
Her adventurous spirit took her to many places, with her husband Bob, creating cherished memories along the way. From the chili festival in Terlingua to Jefferson and around Texas to the breathtaking landscapes of Europe and Alaska, Jill's love for travel was boundless. She adored cruises and treasured the family trips to the Grand Canyon and Colorado. Despite her love for exploring the world, her heart always belonged to her country, which she loved deeply.
Jill's constant companion was her lap dog, Dudley, who brought her endless joy and comfort. Above all, Jill's greatest love was her family. She was immensely proud of her three children, Jeff, Jina and Janiece, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, who were all her proudest accomplishments and the center of her world. Her love for her family was unwavering, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Bob. She is survived by her son Jeff (wife Kari), Jina (husband Leroy), Janiece (husband Chris), sister Janelle Lafield, 10 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.
Jere Jill Rankin's legacy of love, honesty and unwavering support will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. Her strong will, feisty spirit and boundless love for her family and friends will be remembered and celebrated. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her memory continues to inspire and guide those she touched throughout her remarkable life.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 15, beginning at 2 PM at Restland Memorial Chapel, located at 13005 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75243. A reception will follow at the conclusion of the service.
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