Anderson Funeral Home
Homeserving families for over 70 years
312 South Stone St.
Augusta, WI 54722
715-286-2222
Merri Jackson
Merri Margaret (Gjestvang) Jackson, age 76, passed away on July 28th, 2026, shortly after being diagnosed with cancer. Merri was born on July 15th, 1950 in Eau Claire WI to Armen and Dale Gjestvang. Merri grew up in Osseo, WI alongside her two sisters on their family farm.
Merri graduated from Osseo-Fairchild High School in 1968. She married her high school sweetheart, David Smith, and together they welcomed three daughters: Lisa, Jessie, and Maggie. Merri began her career as a waitress in local restaurants in Osseo and Foster, Wisconsin before working in long term care as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She later married Vern Sunday, and although they eventually divorced, he remained an important part of her life until his passing. After nearly all of her children had graduated from high school, Merri returned to school as a nontraditional student at Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College in Rice Lake, fulfilling a lifelong dream of earning her nursing degree. She went on to serve in a variety of healthcare settings until her retirement.
Merri valued having fun, spending time with her family, and kept everyone on their toes with her quick comebacks. She loved reading, sitting outside in the sun, going to the library, crocheting, crafting, participating in bible study at Kings Valley Lutheran Church, attending family celebrations, and going on casino and other trips with her family. Merri’s faith was important to her. She especially enjoyed sharing that faith with her two great-grandchildren by taking them to kids’ church service. Merri had a special charm about her, where she could connect with just about anyone. She was fortunate enough to meet her neighbor, Denise “Dee” Knott, two years ago who quickly turned into her best friend and adventure partner. Merri embraced life with a fearless spirit, a sharp wit, and an unforgettable sense of humor.
Merri is survived by her sister, Linda (Eldon) Larson, sister in law, Cally Bangs, her three daughters, Lisa Herman, Jessica Henke, Maggie Seefeldt, 5 grandchildren, Heather (Kristopher) Berg, Tyler (Tara) Henke, Abigail Henke, Brenna Seefeldt, Brody Seefeldt, two great-grandchildren, Bentley Nelson, Bryce Nelson, niece, Angela Larson, nephews,Wayne (Jennie) Larson, Jeff (Dawn) Larson, Peter Pressnall and other family and friends.
Merri is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Debra (Cally Bangs) Gjestvang.
A celebration of Life will be held on August 12th, 2026 from 1-4 PM at Kings Valley Lutheran Church in Osseo, WI. Memorial contributions may be made to Kings Valley Lutheran Church, N47574 Hwy 53, Osseo, WI 54758 or the Osseo Public Library, 50655 Charles St., Osseo, WI 54758 in honor of Merri Jackson.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
-2 Timothy 4:7
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life”
-John 3:16
