Virginia M. Jackson, 88, Springfield, MO, passed away peacefully in her sleep Saturday, January 14, 2011. Virginia was born in Springfield and was an area resident for most of her life. She graduated from Senior High School in 1941, then, took a job with Bell Telephone as a switchboard operator where she worked for eighteen years. She was a longtime member of Central Christian Church. Virginia was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Ralph B. Jackson, in 2000, and three brothers, Robert, Warren and Harvey Meredith. She is survived by her children, Jeffery Jackson and wife Jennifer, Springfield, Jerry Jackson and companion, Patricia, Tampa, FL, Jennifer Reese and spouse, Jerry, Springfield and Janelle Witt, Springfield; as well as grandchildren, Alisha Aleshire, Brighton, MO, Ryan Forbes, Jerry Jeff Reese, Meredith Reese and Brendon Jackson, all of Springfield; and four great-grandchildren, Hayden and Haley Aleshire, Aireonna Jackson and Olivia Forbes. Virginia loved to say: "Laughter is the best medicine; it will help you live longer, so I'm going to laugh all I can!" She certainly did that, and the world was brighter for it. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. A graveside service will be held Friday, January 20, 2011 at 2 p.m. in Missouri Veterans Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. in Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, 1947 E. Seminole, Springfield, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Central Christian Church, 1475 N. Washington Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802.