Obituary published on Legacy.com by All Veterans Funeral & Cremation - Centennial on Mar. 13, 2026.
Celebrating the life of Columbus Jackson (Shorty), born on November 11, 1945, was one of seven children of Willis Jackson and Catherine Lee Jackson. His siblings are Melvin Jackson, Roland Jackson, Alvin Jackson, Alberta Robinson, Herman Jackson, and Terry Lewis.
Columbus Jackson (Shorty) was born in
Marianna, Arkansas, and in 1948, he relocated with his family to Denver, Colorado, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Throughout his life, Shorty strongly believed in the importance of family, was very inquisitive, protective, and loving toward family and friends, and maintained his moral values. He was admired for his remarkable character and genuine strength, making him an exceptional individual in every way.
Columbus attended the Denver Public School system, embarking on a journey filled with blessings and opportunities. During his time at Manual High School, where he graduated, he distinguished himself as a Wrestling State Champion, showcasing his dedication and athletic skill.
It was during his high school years that Columbus met Delphine (Johnson)-Jackson. In union, they built a family and were blessed with four children: Patrick, Catherine, Anthony, and Christopher.
While building his family, Columbus was also fighting for his country. In November 1965, at the age of 20, Columbus joined the United States Army. He served with the 3rd Battalion, 8th Infantry of the 4th Infantry Division, which was actively engaged in the Vietnam War. During his time in the military, Columbus earned numerous honors and awards, including the Vietnam Service Medal (VSM), Sharpshooter M-14 Marksmanship Badge, National Defense Service Medal (NDSM), Vietnam Campaign Medal (VCM), Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), Marksmanship Medal, Expert Marksmanship Badge M-16, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Bronze Star. Upon returning home, Columbus continued his commitment to service by working in Maintenance with the Cherry Creek School System, where he retired, demonstrating his dedication to both his country and his community.
From this union, he emerged with an understanding of life in this era and shared a life of strength and faith with his family. His children are Patrick (Bobbie), Catherine (Stanley), Anthony, and Christopher. Columbus Jackson was blessed with eight grandchildren. Samantha (Marcus), Jessica, Brittani, Joshua, Raquel, Patrick, Donovan, Deandre, five great-grandchildren, Amaris, Heaven, Xavier, Carter, and Christopher. He embraced this journey with a commitment to a good life.
Proverbs 27:17: "Iron sharpens iron; so, a man sharpens the countenance of his Family and friends
Isaiah 40:31: "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."
These verses highlight how vital faith, heart, and resilience are, as well as the influence exceptional individuals can have on family and society. They inspire men to pursue meaningful lives, place their trust in God, and demonstrate laughter, emotion, heart, and honesty, much like Columbus did.
As President Obama said, "If you are absorbed in what you're doing, one thing will happen. You're going to get good at it, and whether you're rewarded, recognized, or even seen completing this, the journey will be a good one. "
Columbus Jackson's path fulfilled many roles throughout his life, including those of husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, sibling, and friend. He was dedicated to his family, consistently offering support, sharing experiences at gatherings, and prioritizing the well-being of those he cared for, often making personal sacrifices.
Preceded in death by love, his parents, Willis and Catherine, his Wife Delphine, his brothers, Melvin, Roland, Herman, and two of his children, Anthony and Christopher, and a great-grandchild, Aleigha.
Viewing and Funeral services will be held on the same day at the same location, Thursday, March 19, 2026-
Location:
New Hope Ministries
5303 W Kentucky Ave
Lakewood, CO 80226
Phone: (303) 935-1276
Viewing will be from 10:00 am to 11:15 am
Funeral will be from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Graveside service will be from 1:55 pm to 2:20 pm
Location:
Fort Logan National Cemetery
4400 W Kenyon Ave,
Denver, CO 80236
Repass will be held at 4504 N. Shawnee Street,
Aurora, CO, 80019, at 3 pm