James L. Jackson

Celebrating the life of James Lee Jackson

James Lee Jackson was born on June 5, 1931 to Leroy and Harriett Jackson in Raeford, North Carolina. James was the oldest of six children (Fulton, Robert, Louis, Wanda and Lavon). He lived a life filled with a profound impact on others, love, and unwavering faith.

At the age of 7, James's family moved to West Palm Beach, Florida. During high school, he participated in wrestling and ran track. James often spoke about being the fastest young man in his high school. This was proven as he would race his teenaged children and win. James found a deep calling to dedicate his life to Jesus Christ as a teenager.

After graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1951, James pursued higher education at Oakwood College, deepening his understanding of the Seventh-Day Adventist Christian faith. It was at Oakwood College that James found his life partner of 63 years, Julia Olga. They celebrated their union Christmas Day in 1955, marking the beginning of a shared journey of faith and commitment.

Guided by a newfound purpose, James served as a Pastor in various locations, including Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. His dedication to God and his wife bore fruit in two sons, Anthony and James (Alvin), born before the family's move to Washington, D.C. In 1961, James relocated his growing family to D.C. where he embraced a dual role—teaching Science in the DC Public School system and serving God and spreading his word. The Allegany East Conference called James to continue his service as a Lay Pastor to serve in the Washington, D.C. area. His service included pastoring and growing Seventh Day Adventist churches throughout the area. In September of 1974, he founded Northeast SDA Church which eventually moved and was renamed to Bladensburg SDA Church.

As the family continued to grow with the addition of his only daughter, Jacqueline (Denise) and his youngest son, Norman, James's commitment to education deepened. He earned a Master of Education degree from Howard University, solidifying his passion for teaching and spreading the Gospel. His career continued with DC Public Schools until his retirement in 1991. Retirement didn't signify an end to service. James returned to teaching with Prince George's County Public Schools before officially retiring in 2004.

Amidst his professional endeavors, James found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved family, cars, singing Gospel songs, and meticulously manicuring his lawn. He especially enjoyed hosting Sabbath dinners and mentoring others with his wife Julia. James instilled in his children the importance of discipline, love, guidance, religion, education, respect, work ethic, helping others and most importantly a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Retirement held another destination for James. In pursuit of tranquility and reflection, he and Julia moved to Raliegh, North Carolina, to enjoy the serenity of their golden years together. It was in North Carolina that James continued to find solace and purpose in his days as a member of the Immanuel Temple SDA Church in Durham, NC.

James's devotion took on a new dimension as he became the primary caregiver for Julia during her battle with dementia. Despite the challenges, their unwavering commitment, love, and faith remained steadfast. Life took another turn as James too faced the grasp of dementia. In the company of his loving family, he returned to Maryland.

As the pages of life turned, James's health took a toll three weeks ago. He peacefully passed away on December 2, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, and awaiting the second coming. James Lee Jackson's legacy is one of love, faith, and service. His impact as a teacher, pastor, husband, father, and caregiver is immeasurable. James left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, let us celebrate a life well-lived and cherish the memories that will forever echo in our hearts.

James leaves to cherish his precious memories and celebrate his life, a loving and devoted family: sons and daughter; Anthony Tyrone Jackson (Cheryl), James Alvin Jackson (Yvette), Jacqueline Denise Gaskins (Gerald), and Norman Lanier Jackson (Rachelle). 8 grandchildren: Jennifer (Shawnnee), James (Jimmy) (Crystal), Stuart (Tashsana), Katherine (Brima), Candace, Arielle, Cameron, and Kyndall. 7 great grandchildren: Marlin, Kimberlyn, Jaylen, Jameir, Micah, Caleb and Raymond. A brother, Lavon Jackson, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, sister in-laws, brother in-laws, and other relatives.

James L. Jackson is proceeded in death by his wife Julia Olga Jackson; parents Leroy and Harriett Jackson; brothers Fulton, Robert, and Louis; sister, Wanda.