Joseph Walter Jackson

Deacon Joseph Walter Jackson gained his wings on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the age of 66 at Capital Health Regional Medical Center (Fuld), Trenton, N.J.

Born in Trenton, New Jersey on January 9, 1960, Joseph, aka Joe and Joey, received his early education in the Trenton public school system before completing his Certified Public Manager studies at Rutgers University. He was a dedicated employee for N.J. Division of Taxation for 43 years from 1980 until February 2023, retiring as a manager. He supported many families, friends, and clients in completing their annual taxes as well as serving as a Notary Public.

Joe was born into a family with a great love of music and acting, with their abilities and talents showcased in live stage productions. He was a member of various choirs including several at Union Baptist Church and Trenton Central High School. He participated in The Family and Friends Ensemble, the Mill Hill Playhouse, and the Don Evans Players and Artist Ventures. Joe was a member of the National Gospel Music Workshop of America (GMWA). As a founding member of the GMWA Central New Jersey Chapter, serving for 15 years from 2011 to 2026, Joe demonstrating his born leadership skills as the Chapter Representative.

A lifelong member of the Union Baptist Church (UBC) in Trenton, N.J., he was ordained as a deacon at an early age under the leadership of his pastor and mentor, the late Reverend L. Earl Tolbert. Joe served as the UBC organist, accompanist to minister of music, Anna Reeves, for many years, and led the selection of musicians for the UBC music ministry. Joe also served as Chairman of the UBC Pastoral Search Committee, leading the process of selecting UBC's current pastor, Pastor Simeon D. Spencer, in addition to serving as Chairman of the UBC Deacon Board. Joe will always be remembered for his love of God, family, Union Baptist Church, GMWA, friends, and community. He developed a great love for his dogs Caleb, Lulu, Roxi, and Teddy, and opened his home to many, especially for a meal prepared with love.

Predeceased by his maternal grandparents, Jessie W. and Carrie L. (Swinson) Reeves; paternal grandparents, James M. and Lucy (Hayman) Jackson; parents John H. and Mary E. Gilbert, and Charles M. Jackson; brothers, Donal Reeves, Barry Reeves, and Warren Jackson; special cousin raised as siblings, George W., Melvin, Linda J., Brenda J. Reeves and Joann (Reeves) Horton, Joe is survived by his children, twins, Kevin Joseph Green (Danielle) and Kendra Janaé Green; grandchildren, Ainghé, Ja'Shawn, Devin, Kevin, and Evin; godchildren Bradd Marquis Jackson, Kayla Phillips, and Elijah Phillips; siblings, LaBlon "Bonnie" R. Jackson, Faye Gilbert-Martin (Kevin), Charla D. Doney (Gregory), Maurice C. Jackson, Lisa P. Jackson, Theresa Mungro-Karngbaye, Justine S. Molder (Harry), and Ayn C. Jackson; sister-in-law, Anna Reeves; cousin, also affectionately regarded as Aunt Thelma Myers, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.