WILCOX COUNTY, Ga. — People in Wilcox County are painting the town purple to support Preslee Jackson.
Earlier this month, 13WMAZ shared that Jackson was a second grader at Wilcox County Elementary struggling with a sudden medical issue. Jackson died from a condition that caused her brain to bleed and swell.
Growing up, Lacey Eason went to the same school as Jackson's parents.
"I was standing there praying, and I said, Lord what can I do to help this family," Eason said.
Eason is an artist who started the business Talk in Chalk.
Three weeks ago, she started painting purple bows to raise money for Jackson's family. She said she was inspired after seeing Kelli Jackson share a Facebook photo of Preslee Jackson's hair.
"She had her hair braided in the little space buns, and Kelli said that was her favorite way to wear her hair," Eason said.
For almost a month, Eason painted businesses, offices, homes and cars.
She had some volunteers help her paint about 80 cars in one day. She said the generosity of people was overwhelming.
"There were two children sitting in the backseat, and each child had a hundred-dollar bill. And they gave their money to this family," Eason said.
All 295 bows painted helped raise over $6,000 for Jackson's family.
"I'm just thankful for all the businesses, you can see throughout the towns. I've been to several towns and painted most of the businesses, our small businesses," Eason said.
One of those small businesses is The Station 31072 in Pitts run by Valerie Oliver.
"I would describe Pitts as a hidden gem, full of wonderful people that support and love on one another," Oliver said.
And just down the road, Eason's sister Jill Brooks has bows on her family's business, Southern Cuts Processing & Meat Market.
"I grew up with Preslee's parents. I went to school with both of them, all the way from elementary to graduating. They've always been near and dear to my heart," Brooks said.
She said the Jackson family loves what the town's done to remember their daughter.
"They are super excited and I think that this is like a small token to show them all the families that are supporting them and showing them love throughout this tragic time," Brooks said.
So far, Eason's painted almost 300 bows around Cordele, Pitts, Ashburn, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Abbeville.
If you'd like a bow painted on your home, business, or car, you can reach out to Eason on her Facebook page, Talk in Chalk.