Claretta (Lamb) Jackson

Claretta Lamb Jackson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully entered eternal rest on March 20, 2025. She was born on September 26, 1951, in Gatesville, North Carolina, to the late Walter Raleigh Lamb and Rosa Lee Lamb.
From an early age, Claretta’s faith was her guiding light. She accepted Christ and became a dedicated member of New Middle Swamp Baptist Church in Corapeake, North Carolina, where she served faithfully as an usher. Her devotion to her faith remained steadfast throughout her life.
Claretta’s early education took place in Gates County Public Schools, and her love of learning led her to Norfolk State University, where she graduated in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. While at Norfolk State, she and her beloved sister, Mary “Honey” Lamb-Bowman, pledged the social organization Sigma Gamma Nu, strengthening their already unbreakable bond.
Following her graduation, Claretta moved to Washington, D.C., where she built a distinguished career in the federal government. From 1974 to 2011, she served in various roles, including as a Secretary, Tax Auditor, and ultimately as a Financial Specialist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for 32 years. Her dedication and excellence earned her numerous awards and commendations.
A committed servant to her community, Claretta was a lifetime member of Blacks in Government, where she worked on several committees, including Recording Secretary, Assistant Treasurer, and Send Your Child to Camp. She also actively contributed to the Thanksgiving Food Drive, Membership, and We Care initiatives. Additionally, she served as the Recording Secretary for her Homeowner’s Association, always striving to make a positive impact in her community.
Claretta’s faith and service extended beyond her professional and civic commitments. In 1975, she co-founded "Christian Youth in Action," a group dedicated to spreading the Gospel. Known as “The Golden Girls,” shared their faith and love for Christ through their actions. She became a devoted member of The Washington Christian Center, now Encounter Life Church, in 1984, where she faithfully served on the Social Committee for many years.
It was in a home Bible study group in 1975 that Claretta met the love of her life, Ballard “BJ” Jackson. Their love story was one of faith, partnership, and adventure. Together, they traveled across the globe, making cherished memories in Germany, Spain, St. Thomas, Hawaii, Alaska, Missouri, Nevada, Tennessee, and beyond. Their love was a testament to commitment, joy, and the beauty of shared experiences.
Beyond her professional and spiritual commitments, Claretta had a deep love for family, cooking, music, and travel. She found joy in preparing meals for loved ones and was known for her signature two-step move on the dance floor. Affectionately called “The Quiet Storm,” Claretta carried a quiet strength, a warm and welcoming heart, and an unshakable faith that touched the lives of everyone who knew her. She believed in financial wisdom, living below her means, and ensuring her family was well taken care of.
Claretta was a radiant example of God’s love—gentle yet strong, humble yet impactful. Her beautiful smile, kind spirit, and unwavering love for those around her will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service, cherished by her devoted husband, Ballard Jackson of Fort Washington, MD; her daughter, LaTanya Jackson Cole (Nelson) of Brandywine, MD; her beloved grandchildren, Chase Cole and Lexington Zoe Cole; her brothers, Walter Lamb Jr. (Vera) of Portsmouth, VA, and the late Charles Lamb (Erma) of Corapeake, NC; her sisters, Mary “Honey” Lamb-Bowman (James) of Fort Washington, MD, and Gloria “Glo” Lamb-Woodfork (Gerald) of Washington, DC; her brothers-in-law Eddie Mackey Jr. and Tracy Steel Jackson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a monumental number of dear friends. She is preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Jevon Jackson.
Though Claretta has departed from this earthly life, her love, kindness, and faith will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

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