Tracy Jackson has lived in Newton County her entire life. From becoming a Newton High School class of 1989 graduate to serving as an officer with the Covington Police Department (CPD), Jackson remains actively involved in the community.

Throughout all of Jackson’s participation in the area, her biggest motivation is her “passion for helping others.” 

“I like to teach, lead, motivate and guide others to success. I might not have all the answers, but I am willing to get them from who has them,” Jackson said. “I am a relatable woman, a compassionate woman and a woman that loves to pour into others. Any way that I can make a difference in this world, I will do it.” 

One of the main ways Jackson helps her hometown is through an organization she and daughter, Lauren Sawyer, started called, “JTyler’s Keeper.”  

The organization is named after Jackson’s son, Justin Tyler Sawyer, who was kidnapped and murdered in December 2020 after offering a ride to a group of people in Tennessee. 

Justin’s compassion for others inspired Jackson and Lauren to start the organization.

“My son was selfless. He would help anyone that needed help. From teaching his friends how to read as kids, to showing them how to change flat tires as adults, he helped others and did it with a smile. Justin was a gift from God,” Jackson said. “My son was murdered [while] helping someone. It was just in his nature. I know he would want us to keep those acts of service and commitment to change going in his honor. Lauren and I will keep it going as long as we’re breathing.” 

At present, Jackson said JTyler’s Keeper is “still going strong.” 

It helps give back Newton County families by service, volunteer work and adopting families for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Around the holidays, the organization will buy clothes, food, toys and more. 

According to Jackson, the organization has “knowingly” helped over 50 people while receiving messages and feedback of helping more individuals “unknowingly.” 

The next steps for Jackson and Lauren is to expand their outreach with hosting and attending speaking engagements as well as offering scholarships for students in Newton County and Clarkesville, Tennessee.

“The goal of our organization is to keep growing every year and changing lives in memory of Justin,” Jackson said. “Although it’s a fairly new organization, we are committed to expanding the way we reach our local and aspire to take it national.” 

In her interview with The Covington News, Jackson shared a message to readers, too. 

“To anyone navigating the loss of a loved one or dealing with grief, hold on and keep going. Take a deep breath and take it one second at a time,” Jackson said. “Losing my son has by far been the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to deal with. But I know he wants me to live. He fulfilled his purpose and I have to fulfill mine while helping others fulfill theirs. I encourage anyone feeling helpless or weary to live and turn their pain into power.”