Enid Arden Span: The Untold Story of Jackie Jackson’s First Wife

When we talk about the famous Jackson family, most people instantly think of Michael Jackson or the Jackson 5. But behind the spotlight and music history, there are personal stories that many don’t know. One of these stories belongs to Enid Arden Span, the first love and wife of Jackie Jackson.

Jackie Jackson, the oldest brother of the Jackson 5, rose to fame in the late 1960s alongside his brothers Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. While his music career was in the public eye, his personal life with Enid was a private but deeply emotional chapter.

In this article, we’ll look closely at Enid Arden Span’s life. We’ll explore her early years, her love story with Jackie, her family life, and the challenges she faced. Let’s dive into her story and see why she is still remembered today.

Who Was Enid Arden Span?

Enid Arden Span was more than just Jackie Jackson’s wife. She was a woman with her own journey, full of ups and downs. Born on June 27, 1954, in Seoul, South Korea, Enid lived through times of struggle and change before finding her way to the United States.

She became known to the world because of her marriage to Jackie Jackson, but her life was much bigger than that. To her children and those who knew her, Enid was a loving mother, a caring friend, and a woman with quiet strength.

Early Life and Childhood

Growing up in South Korea in the 1950s and 60s wasn’t easy. The country was still recovering from the Korean War, and many families faced poverty and uncertainty. Enid’s early life was shaped by these challenges, but she didn’t let them define her.

At some point in her teenage years, Enid moved to the United States. She settled in Los Angeles, California, which was becoming a popular place for many immigrants during that time. The move wasn’t easy, but it opened doors for her future. It was in Los Angeles where she would meet the man who would change her life forever.

How Enid Met Jackie Jackson

The story of how Enid met Jackie Jackson feels like something out of a movie. It was 1969, and Jackie was just 18 years old while Enid was only 15. Jackie was already stepping into fame with his brothers as the Jackson 5, known for hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC.”

Despite his rising stardom, Jackie fell in love with Enid. Their connection was instant and real. Can you imagine being so young and finding love while the whole world is watching you? That’s exactly what Enid and Jackie experienced. Their bond grew stronger over the years, even as the Jackson 5 became a global sensation.

Love Story and Wedding

After five years of dating, Enid and Jackie decided to take the next big step. In November 1974, they married in a private ceremony. Enid was 20 years old, and Jackie was 23. At the time, the Jackson 5 were at the peak of their fame, performing to sold-out crowds and making chart-topping records.

Being married to a pop star was never going to be simple. Enid suddenly found herself in the public eye, surrounded by the attention and chaos that came with being part of the Jackson family. But she stayed by Jackie’s side, supporting him through the whirlwind of fame.

Life as Jackie Jackson’s Wife

Life with Jackie was exciting but also challenging. The couple lived at the famous Jackson family compound in Encino, California. The house was always full of music, family members, and visitors. For Enid, this was both a blessing and a challenge.

She had to adjust to the constant media attention. Paparazzi were always trying to catch a glimpse of the Jackson family. Privacy was almost impossible. Still, Enid remained a strong and supportive wife. She understood the demands of Jackie’s career and stood by him during long tours and recording sessions.

Becoming a Mother

Enid’s life changed forever when she became a mother. In 1977, she gave birth to their first child, Sigmund “Siggy” Jackson Jr. Two years later, in 1982, their daughter Brandi Jackson was born.

Raising children is never easy, but raising them as part of the Jackson family added even more pressure. Enid wanted her kids to have as normal a childhood as possible, even though their father was one of the most famous singers of the time. She was known as a caring, hands-on mom who always put her children first.

Can you imagine trying to give your kids a quiet life while the world is constantly watching? That’s exactly what Enid faced, but she managed with love and patience.

Troubles in Marriage

No love story is perfect, and Enid and Jackie’s marriage faced serious challenges. By the early 1980s, rumors of Jackie’s infidelity started to spread. One of the biggest shocks came when it was revealed that Jackie had fathered a child, Joh’Vonnie, with another woman named Cheryl Terrell.

This betrayal was devastating for Enid. In 1984, the couple separated. A few years later, in 1986, Enid filed for divorce again and even got a restraining order against Jackie, accusing him of being abusive. It was a very painful and public chapter in her life.

Their marriage officially ended in 1987 after 13 years. For Enid, this meant starting over as a single mother, focusing on raising Siggy and Brandi without the support of Jackie by her side.

Life After Divorce

After the divorce in 1987, Enid Arden Span decided to live a quiet life away from the spotlight. She focused on raising her children, Siggy and Brandi, in Los Angeles. It wasn’t easy being a single mother, but Enid was strong and determined to give her kids the best life possible.

Money was sometimes tight, and life without the Jackson family’s fame was very different. But Enid preferred a simple and peaceful life. She wanted to keep her children away from the constant media attention that surrounded the Jackson name.

Even though she stayed away from the public eye, Enid’s love for her children never faded. Siggy and Brandi often spoke about how caring and supportive their mother was during those difficult years.

Her Legacy Through Her Children

Enid’s legacy lives on through her two children. Siggy Jackson followed in his family’s footsteps and became a musician, performing under the name Dealz. He also started a production company called Undeniable Visions with his wife, Toyia. Together, they have made documentaries that highlight important issues, like the struggles of Black women in the entertainment industry.

Brandi Jackson, on the other hand, chose a more creative path behind the camera. She works as a photographer and videographer and has been part of family projects like The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty. Brandi has also stood up for her late uncle Michael Jackson, defending him publicly when his reputation was questioned.

Both Siggy and Brandi often credit their strength and values to their mother. Enid’s quiet determination and love helped shape who they are today.

Health Struggles and Tragic Death

Life wasn’t always kind to Enid Arden Span. After years of raising her children and dealing with life’s challenges, her health began to decline. She reportedly battled cancer, but the biggest tragedy came in 1997.

On December 20, 1997, Enid suddenly passed away at the young age of 43. Reports say she collapsed in a movie theater restroom due to a brain aneurysm. Her death came as a huge shock to her family and friends.

At the time, Siggy and Brandi were just starting their adult lives. Losing their mother so suddenly left them heartbroken. The Jackson family came together to support them during this painful time, but Enid’s absence was deeply felt.

Remembering Enid Arden Span

Even though Enid’s life was cut short, her memory continues to live on. To her children, she is still a source of love, courage, and inspiration. To fans of the Jackson family, she remains an important part of their history.

Jackie Jackson’s children often share how proud they are of their mother’s strength and kindness. Siggy, especially, has spoken about how Enid’s guidance shaped him as a father and husband today.

When we look back at Enid’s life, we see more than just the ex-wife of a famous singer. We see a woman who loved her family fiercely, stood tall during difficult times, and built a legacy that her children continue to honor.

Final Words

The story of Enid Arden Span is one of love, strength, and resilience. From her early life in South Korea to her years with Jackie Jackson and their two children, her journey was filled with both joy and hardship.

Even though she is no longer here, her story continues to inspire. She showed that behind the fame and glitter of the music industry, there are real people with real struggles and triumphs.

Enid Arden Span may not have been a global star, but to those who knew her, she was a shining light. Her life reminds us that love and family are what truly matter in the end.

• Jane Dobbins Green
• Amy Sherrill
• Mary Joan Schutz