Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Helen Burns Jackson
1923 - 2015
Helen Burns Jackson
1923 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1923
DIED
2015
Helen Burns Jackson Obituary
The Rev. Jesse Jackson told The Associated Press his mother died Monday morning in her longtime hometown of Greenville, South Carolina. She had been in failing health for some time, he said.
"She was an incredible woman blessed with a long life," Jackson said.
Jackson described his mother as a talented musician, active member of her church and big inspiration for much of his community activism. Born in 1923, Helen Burns Jackson "lived under very trying circumstances, but she was so determined to make a contribution," her son said.
Jackson said his mother had two scholarships to attend college, but when she became pregnant with him, she chose not to go. She later became a cosmetologist.
"She helped a lot of people," Jackson told The Greenville News (http://grnol.co/1UxbwS6 ) a few days before she died. "That's mostly what I remember about Mother is some people would call and say 'I need my hair to be dressed, but I don't have any money.' She would say, 'Come on anyhow.'"
Jackson also recalled how his mother would help others who couldn't read or write fill out government paperwork.
One year when they were too poor to buy Christmas gifts, he said, they came home from a pageant to find six bags of groceries on the porch. They learned later the groceries came from an illiterate World War I veteran whom Burns Jackson had once helped.
Years later, Burns Jackson watched her son rise to fame as an activist, primarily from her South Carolina home. However, she appeared onstage when he addressed the Democratic National Convention in 1988. He lost the nomination that year to Michael Dukakis.
Another son, Chuck Jackson, is a singer and songwriter.
Burns Jackson also listened to her son's radio broadcasts from Chicago and never missed a TV appearance, Jackson told the newspaper.
"She took lots of joy in that," he said. "She always asked, 'Lord, what have I done to deserve this? What have I done to deserve this?'"
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
115 Entries
Luonne Abram Rouse
October 2, 2016
Mother Helen Jackson, one year ascended, every moment beloved. Remembering the lessons with sincerity of heart; the lessons of genuine compassion. O God, we walked, talked, and prayed through the loveliness of days. Forever trusting you, while committing our lives to love, joy and peace. Kiss, now, the spirit of Helen Burns Jackson as her spirit abides in the eternal blessed love of never being alone. Smiling Amens.
April 4, 2016
Juan .3.16.el gran amor de Dios y jesus para la humanidad
How you can show support
Hillary and Helen
Lynne Lindmeier
October 26, 2015
Dearest Helen was a close friend since 1998. We lived in different states but had lengthy conversations on the phone. She inspired me with her wisdom. She always made me laugh out loud with her humor. She quoted scripture frequently and made sure I wrote it down. She was a warm, lovable and respectful person who said only positive things about others. I loved the magnificent homemade cakes she sent me at Christmas. She was humble. Helen was probably more brilliant than anyone realized. She spoke in rhymes in a similar way that Jesse does- he must have learned his style from her! I love her dearly and am so sad. I miss her already. I was blessed by Helen.
September 26, 2015
Please accept my deepest sympathy. May the God of all comfort, provide your family with the needed strength to endure the loss of your love one.
September 26, 2015
My condolences to the family.May you rely on God during these times of grief because he cares for you.
1 Peter 5 : 7,10
Eric M
September 25, 2015
She was good mother who made sacrifices for her family. I pray that Jesse stays strong as remember only the good times. I also pray that he gets the strength from God and His holy spirit to push him through these difficult times. It's very tough losing a mother, the strong hold of the family. There will be a time when death will be swallowed up forever- 1 Corinthians 15:54. Stay strong Jesse!
John and Brenda
September 25, 2015
Sleep peacefully, Helen Burns Jackson. Your life story and fine works have been indelibly stored in God's memory. Our heartfelt condolences!
September 22, 2015
Anna Williams Jacobs
D. Morgan
September 21, 2015
Weep not Rev. Jackson, weep not family...Sister Helen is not dead. She is resting now, in the bosom of Jesus. Heart-broken family, grief-strickened son, weep no more....she's just gone on...her work here is complete and God called her home, saying "Come to me Sister Helen...and take your rest. You work is complete", and sister Helen closed her physical eyes as she was lovingly taken in the arms of Jesus (Y'shua)...Rest in Paradise Sister Helen, and thank you for your service to Humanity.
September 20, 2015
Dear family: please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of your dear mother and friend. Loosing a mother can bring deep pain to your heart. However, our Heavenly Father understand what you are going through, and He promises to become the Stronghold to those turning to Him for help - for He promises to give strength to his people and bless his people with peace...Psalms 29:11. May you be granted strength and comfort to endure your loss.
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
September 19, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
September 18, 2015
May God continue to Bless the Jackson Family. May you always find comfort in knowing that your mother is resting in the arms of Jesus Christ. Keep her memories alive in your hearts. continue to do the things she knows that are right in the eyes of God.
Keep Hope Alive is what she would say to us All.
Helen Benson, Coosawhatchie,SC
September 17, 2015
Offering my deepest sympathy to the family. May the peace of God comfort you and may God grant you strength to endure through this most difficult time.
Rev. James & Rev. Dr. Louis Grant (106.9 f.m. The Light)
September 16, 2015
Dear Family and Rev. Jesse Jackson, Mother Jackson lived a Long and Blessed Life. When its full of Glory there's nothing to add except one line. "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord". Our Dad knew your family well. The late Rev. Dr. Wesley Grant, Sr. of Worldwide Missionary Baptist Tabernacle, Asheville North Carolina. Heaven is Rejoicing with these Saints!!!!....Praying with and for you.
james bowling
September 16, 2015
May you rest in peace Ms. Helen. God Bless.
myrna and james myers
September 16, 2015
God Bless,
The Rev. Jackson family with Lord your many comforts.
myrna and james myers
September 16, 2015
I will miss our talks. I am sure you have joy and peace where you are now. I will always love you, your cousin and friend
Min. Valerie Sherman
September 16, 2015
We pray God grant you all His strength, peace, and courage during this trying time.
Rev. Aaron & Sonji Mims Adams
September 15, 2015
Rev. Jesse Jackson, Mr. Chuck Jackson & Family,
You're in our thoughts & prayers. The light, love & legacy of Mrs. Helen will live on in & through you.
Evelyn McMillian
September 15, 2015
My condolences to the Jackson Family, may they find peace in the love that their mother shared with so many
Terri Wells
September 14, 2015
I pray that your family Will find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Barbara Marshall
September 14, 2015
May God walk real close to you Rev. Jesse Jackson and family!!! I travelled this road August 13, 2005, in Detroit, Michigan, with my Mother ( Mother Alice Jones of The Resurrected Christ Missionary Baptist Church) under the leadership of her son and pastor Rev. Darius E. Jones. Best earthly friend I'll ever have. God be the glory. Rest well Mother Helen Burns Jackson, your son and I will see you and my mom in Jesus house again. In Loving Respect I remain in Christ Jesus- Amen-
MW Weaver
September 14, 2015
Offering heartfelt condolences, thoughts, prayers and love regarding the descendants of Mrs. Helen Burns Jackson as she now rests in God's peace and praising in Paradise. To GOD be the Glory for her life and her continued earthly essence through her memory and offspring...rejoicing that she has been birthed into eternal life with our Savior Jesus Christ. GOD is with you ... always, always...through it all! Enjoy HIS blessings!
From a grateful U.S. citizen (with extended family in Greenville, SC) and admirer of the Jackson families who have done so much for the world... wonderful accomplishment dear Mrs Helen B. Jackson - enjoy your LIFE in and with the LIGHT and HIS LOVE.
Antoinette Wright
September 14, 2015
My family and I wish to extend our condolences to you and your family in the homegoing of your family's matriarch. Peace & much love.
September 14, 2015
Please accept my condolences on your loss. May the God of comfort continue to strengthen you and your family.
Mattie Cohen
September 13, 2015
She will be miss
Scott Chamberland
September 13, 2015
Rest in Peace
Jacqueline Harris
September 13, 2015
Prayers and Condolences
September 13, 2015
Our prayers are extended to the Jackson Family. Please know that the sadness of the passing of your loved one is felt by many. May the thought of knowing that friends share in your sadness be of some comfort to you.
Ulysses & Laura Etta Jackson Sweeney
and Dr. C.O. Jackson
Oliver L Avery, III
September 13, 2015
My love and prayers extend to the Jackson Family! As I grew up a couple of houses from the Jackson's on Anderson St, I witnessed Mama Jackson instilling character and values in Bo and Chuck. My mother, Mrs. Hattie Lou Avery was also a cosmetologist, and they use to always chat about the trade. May God continue to bless and strengthen the family during this time.
September 13, 2015
To Jesse Jackson and family,
Psalm 91, may the lord give you strength and keep you in his care always.Another diamond and rose flower went home to be with God bless his holy name.
Joan Walton
September 12, 2015
Peace be with you !!!!!!!!
September 12, 2015
Sending Love And Prayers..Mama Helen as I have always called has been in my life for as long as I can remember ...such a great woman of God. My brother Bishop Alfred V. Simpson of Greenville is praying for the family and sends love. Johnie M. Shaw{Wilder} East Point ,Ga.
Debra s Sadberry
September 12, 2015
Well done you faithful servant.
You lived above and beyond
Your purpose.
Robyn Cannon
September 12, 2015
Our condolences to the Jackson Family and my fellow Bison Alumna: We are so very grateful for the Life of Mrs. Jackson for her contributions are evident in her children and grandchildren. Where would we be if not for Mrs. Helen Burns Jackson, our mother too. Our Prayers are with you. Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Robyn Cannon and Sirvon Cannon, WPB, Florida
Aaliyah Wells
September 12, 2015
Sorry for your lose. May God keep you & bless you. I extend my deepest sympathy!
Emill Lovely
September 12, 2015
God will take care of you. Enjoy your blessings, now and forever.
September 11, 2015
Ms.Jackson was wonderful.
September 11, 2015
Sympathy Blessings to the Entire Jackson Family From the Us Treasry Department Of Washington, DC
Sympathy Joys
Etta Sue Rice
September 11, 2015
To the Jackson family we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your mom and matriarch of your family. She was a beautiful person. May she rest in peace and may God give the Jackson family peace too. ETTA SUE THOMPSON RICE AND THE THOMPSON FAMILY OF GREENVILLE.
Cynthia Franklin
September 11, 2015
God knows best keep your family in my prayers
Peggy Norris- Ashe
September 11, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
September 11, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
P D James
September 11, 2015
May the Peace and Love of our Father give you and your family comfort during this time of bereavement. May your mother's memory forever shine bright in your hearts and minds
Patricia Barbee, GABEO
September 11, 2015
My sympathy to the Family. Love abides. Tears will ebb. Memories will feel like her arms hugging you. Be Blessed. [Widow of Rev. J. Wesley Barbee, Progressive Baptist, Nashville, TN]
September 11, 2015
I pray the comforter strengthens you at this time.
With deepest sympathy
September 11, 2015
Psalms 119:76 "May Your loyal love please comfort me, according to the promise You made to Your servant."
As your family come together in Prayer, May our Heavenly Father (Psalms 83:18) continue to give you peace and strength to endure the days ahead.
RM
September 11, 2015
My condolences to the family ,. may you have beautiful memories during this difficult time and remember Gods, wonderful Promise of life without end in Paradise.
Psalm 83:18, Psalm 115:16
September 11, 2015
So very sorry for your loss.may Almighty God give you comfort and peace.Psalms83:18
September 10, 2015
So,so for your loss may the god of comfort be with your family Rom 5:5
wIS C.M
Scott Chamberland
September 10, 2015
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
Joe Gilliom
September 10, 2015
My Great, Great Grandfather George Valentine can once again meet up with a angel from Greenville that he so adored.
September 10, 2015
I am very sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers. We were so blessed to have known Helen from the Greenville Place. When she was hospitalized, our family would visit herread the Bible (she really knew the Scriptures!), pray, and the children would sing and play instruments. She'd often raise her hand to direct the music and sometimes asked them to work on her favorite hymns to sing the next time.
We'd hope to be an encouragement to her but often walked away being so refreshed ourselves. She loved Jesus Christ and often spoke about her faith. She'd quote verses and tell our children to love and honor us. She'd turn to my husband and me and inspire us in our parenting and marriageoften times in the form of catchy phrases and poems.
When we would leave her room, she'd hold our hands and give the children the latest handshakes ending with fist bumps. She'd kiss my hand, I'd bend down and kiss hers, and she'd tell us to hurry back and not to forget her. We'll never forget your dear sweet Helen, and I know we'll see her again someday. Praise God for eternal life through Jesus Christ, our Lord!
Much love and prayers.
Nancy
September 10, 2015
I am sorry for the loss of your mother. There is no greater bond than one between a mother and her child. May the God of all comfort (Psalms 83:18)be with your family at this devastating time. Please take care.
rob & sheila turner
September 10, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Rudolph & Deborah Sullivan
September 10, 2015
Your family is in our prayers. When I lived in SC Mrs. Jackson (Helen) was my hair dresser. She was a kind lady. She will be missed.
September 10, 2015
Beloveds, so sad to hear of Ms. Jackson's passing. I know she will truly be missed. May you find peace and comfort from God who assures us he wont leave us bereaved . . .
-John14:18
Jesse and Lesia Lee and Abner family
September 10, 2015
May God continue to hold and comfort you at this time . I know your mother is in a better place, she has made it to our Heavenly home where we all must go one day. I know she would not take nothing for her journey right now marching up the king highway to see our Jesus face to face. Walking on the streets of gold. Seeing that beautiful pearly gate where our Lord will open up to let her in. So go on up Sister Jackson and get your long white robe and wear your crown and most of all, get your angel wings to fly to the sky where you will live eternity with our Jesus . Thank you Jesus for another beautiful angel you have toke up to Heaven ( Sister Jackson ). Rest in peace, you has earn your rest. And I know you is still watching over us all cause God's song. I know the Angels watching over me is a true song. Now you Sister Jackson has joined the Heavenly choir singing and another angel watching over us down here.
September 10, 2015
Please accept my condolences, may the family find comfort @ Issiah 25:8., Aj
V H
September 10, 2015
Our prayers and condolences go out to the Jackson Family. Your loved lived such a long time and was very devoted to her family and community. Cherish the many memories in your heart and allow the many friends and family to give you the love and comfort you need at this time. May God Almighty give you his strength, courage and peace in the days ahead. Isa. 41:10
Elena ochoa
September 10, 2015
"A good name is better than good oil, and the day of death is better than the day of birth." Ecclesiastes 7:7
Annie Miller
September 10, 2015
My condolences. You and your family are in my prayers.
September 10, 2015
To the family,So sorry for your loss. As each day passes reflect on the love you had and time you spent creating memories.keep those joyous memories to your heart for comfort and the God of tender mercy (Psalms 83:18) grants you the peace you all need at difficult this.
Fred Norman, Jr
September 10, 2015
As a little boy, I relished accompanying my mother to get her hair done at your Ms. Jackson's beauty salon on the corner of Jenkins and Anderson streets in Greenville, SC. She was a very sweet lady and I'll miss her. Fred (Pookie) Norman, Jr.
Carolyn
September 10, 2015
May God comfort you and your family in this time of sorrow and give you peace and strength to endure. Psalms 83:18, Rom. 15:33
September 10, 2015
May our Heavenly Father ease your pain,..Matt.5:7
September 10, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family on the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort and strength from God who promises to be "a secure refuge in times of distress." (Psalm 9:9)
September 10, 2015
I'm sorry to read about your mother, you have my deepest sympathy. She lived a long life and watched as things in this world went from one extreme to another. As your mother we long for better times and to live in peace. We are promised a future with no
Min. Sarah James Watkins
September 10, 2015
Goodbye to a wonderful woman.
And to Jesse and the rest of the Jackson family and friends my prayers are with you.
Sheila Hightower-Allen
September 10, 2015
My heartfelt condolence to the Jackson family.
Sheila
September 10, 2015
May she Rest in Peace. God bless.
September 9, 2015
You have our most heartfelt condolences. Please remember that you're not alone and that you're surrounded by people who love you and care for you.
Robert & Valentina Boulware
September 9, 2015
May God bless your family, during your time of sorrow.
Debra Ceol
September 9, 2015
My Condolences to the Jackson's Family and friends.
Shirley P Eskew
September 9, 2015
To all of Helen's family: I knew Helen from the YWCA Senior Aquarobics program during 1974-84 when I was an instructor there. She was a very special lady and it was a privilege to know her and her mother who came sometimes with her to sit on the deck to watch the class. Helen touched the lives of so many, including myself. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you during this time of loss. May God bless you with comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Warm Christian Love.
September 9, 2015
Sending words of comfort to the Jackson family. Mrs. Jackson was bless with longevity. Psalm 90:10 May the God of all comfort be with you and yours now and in days to come.
Mrs Ellen Irby
September 9, 2015
I have special thoughts and memories of Mrs Jackson. My sincere condolences, God is receiving someone I will always remember.
Harold Burton
September 9, 2015
Hi Bo.sorry about miss Helen.may she in peace.
Brenda Miller
September 9, 2015
Condolences to the family of Mrs. Helen Jackson and Rev. Jessie Jackson and Family Indeed it is with prayers for all of you as you go thru this loss of your loved one. It is good to know that your mother lived a blessed and long life. I've sat there with my mother's passing and have experienced the love and comfort of God and others. May loving memories bring joy to your heart and give you a smile on your face. God bless and keep you now and always.
In Him,
Min. Brenda F. Miller
September 9, 2015
Family of Helen Jackson,we
extend our sympathy to you.
May our Lord and Savior
Jesus Christ give you comfort
and peace in your hearts
today and the days to ahead.
The Hall Family,S.C.
September 9, 2015
Joyous memories to your heart to comfort.
Comfort from the holy scriptures. Proverbial words.
"Worry in a man's heart depresses it, but thinking of a good thing gladdens it."
Elizabeth
September 9, 2015
May the God of tender mercies comfort the family at this time.
Love,
IRAL Family, Chicago
Ani
September 9, 2015
She served the Lord with gladness and now with gladness is in Heaven!
September 9, 2015
So sorry for your loss. May Almighty God grant you peace as you cope with your loss. Phil4:6,7
B Johnson
September 9, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family for the loss of your loved one. May prayers strengthen you and memories comfort you, and may our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father, who loves us, comfort your hearts and "make you firm". (2 Thessalonians 2:16, 17)
King family
September 8, 2015
May the God of tender mercy (Psalms 83:18)grant the family peace and comfort during this time of sorrow.
Dollie Davis
September 8, 2015
Heartfelt condolences to the Jackson family.
September 8, 2015
I would like to offer my deepest condolences for your loss. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be gone for this has been promised.
Mary Green
September 8, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Unionvillie Community
September 8, 2015
Extending condolences and prayers to the Jackson family.
September 8, 2015
I'm sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort provide your family with the needed strength to endure as you mourn for your loss.
Melinda Cook
September 8, 2015
May god bless you and your family at a time. Remember all the good and laughing time.
AH
September 8, 2015
Our deepest sympathies go out to the Jackson family, may our Heavenly Father comfort and strengthen you during this difficult time (Num.6:24).
September 8, 2015
May God comfort the Jackson's Family during this time. Shay Williams
Showing 1 - 100 of 115 results
Make a Donation
in Helen Burns Jackson's name
How to support Helen's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Helen Burns Jackson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored