This week I lost another ‘old’ Rockwall friend. Jackie Daniel. The first time I met her I was very young and pre-elementary school. She was my Mama’s hairdresser. Mama had a standing Wednesday appointment at Daniel Beauty Salon (located on San Jacinto St when it was two-way). Occasionally I would go with her in hopes of playing with my friend, Tommie. As I grew older, I would go to Jackie (or James) for a cut. They were the first to straighten my (back then) very curly hair.
Many weekends were spent with Tommie and her loving parents at their home on Olive Street. I always knew Jackie had my best interest at heart. She was always welcoming to us and made sure we were well fed and having a good time.
After Wesley was diagnosed with Leukemia, I once ran into her at a local store and, as most people did, she asked how he was feeling – usually I said ‘oh he’s ok’ but that one afternoon I just unleashed all the pressure and the tears flowed as I told her he was not well, and he was not fine, and she held me tight and listened and comforted me. At that time, I realized she was the one person who understood what I was feeling, and she allowed me to be me – it was a moment I will never forget.
She was one of those friends you could go years without seeing but the bonds of friendship and familiarity remained strong. The last time I got to visit with her was a few years ago at the wedding of Jenny and Charles.
I will miss her but am grateful for the impact she had on me. She probably never knew that impact and I am sad for that – I wish I had told her. She was so influential to my growth and the person I am now. I am so grateful for her daughter and my good friend Tommie and I am grateful for her great-granddaughter Kale who I have encouraged and watched grow over the past few years – just as Jackie encouraged me and watched me grow.
