Jacqueline Presley

Today, we celebrate the remarkable life of Jacqueline Elizabeth Presley, a woman whose courage, faith, and love profoundly touched countless lives. Jacqueline was born on August 4, 1941, at Hillman Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, to Herbert Lea and Pauline Robberson Folmar. She entered this world weighing just two pounds and faced the challenge of cerebral palsy from birth. Despite these obstacles, Jacqueline lived a life full of purpose, grace, and unwavering determination.

Her childhood was marked by perseverance through countless treatments, yet she never allowed her condition to define her spirit. She found joy in attending camps for children with disabilities, where she loved being outdoors and active. Jacqueline became deeply involved in the Jerry Lewis Telethon, successfully raising awareness and hope for others with disabilities. Her joyful heart and community spirit were evident when she was crowned Queen of the Birmingham Cheer Club at the VFW.

Jacqueline’s life was rich with service and dedication. She ran a bookstore from her home, worked alongside traveling ministers, and spent many years working at Goodwill Industries, where she met the love of her life, Robert Jerry Presley. They married on August 25, 1972, and shared a beautiful journey together for 32 years until Jerry’s passing in 2004.

Following Jerry’s death, Jacqueline continued to lead life with strength and compassion. She served on the Resident Committee at Highland Manor Apartments and helped establish the Friendship Club with lifelong friend, Jo Jordan, acting as the secretary and keeper of the records. Her commitment to building community never wavered. Her dear friend and wonderful caregiver from Highland Manor, Donna Lowe, will miss her greatly.

Jacqueline was also a passionate advocate for people with disabilities, working alongside friend, Jamie Duffle, to ensure dignity and inclusion for all. Her life reminds us that true strength is not measured by physical ability, but by the depth of one’s heart and the reach of one’s compassion.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Jacqueline was a devoted member of South Highland Presbyterian Church, where she was a faithful, longtime member of Presbyterian Women (PW), taking part in the yearly Bible studies. She served as Mission Chair for her PW Circle. In 2019, Jacqueline received her Honorary Life Membership in Presbyterian Women, awarded for her faithful service at South Highland.

Jacqueline is survived by three of her beloved ten siblings; Johnny Kent Folmar of California, PA, David Folmar of Sealy, TX, and Paul Folmar of AZ, as well as her sister-in-law, Rochelle Goodwin of Montgomery, AL. She is also survived by her precious nephews; Kent, Tram, Forrest, Brendan and Peter, and many great nieces and great nephews. Her family was truly her life’s greatest treasure. She adored keeping up with the entire family and remembering everyone’s birthdays.

Jacqueline was a light to all who knew her, a woman of great faith and joy who inspired dedication and loyalty in both her Christian and personal relationships. She exemplified resilience and strength in the face of adversity. She was truly “one of a kind” and will be greatly missed.