Max Jackson Obituary
Max Anthony Jackson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2025, at HCA North Florida in Gainesville after an extended illness. He was 87 years old.
Born on June 8, 1938, in Greensburg, Indiana, Max moved to Lakeland, Florida, with his parents as a young adult. He later settled in Union County after marrying his devoted wife, Ethel Lanier Jackson, 38 years ago. Together, they built a life filled with love and dedication to their family and community.
Max had a career in maintenance at the VA in Gainesville, where his quiet demeanor and strong work ethic earned him the respect of his peers. He dedicated six years of service to the United States Army, an experience that fostered a deep sense of duty and commitment that he carried throughout his life.
In his personal life, Max enjoyed traveling and working in his yards, taking great pride in his home and surroundings. He was a dedicated member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Raiford, where he found joy and fellowship among his church family.
Max leaves behind his beloved wife, Ethel, and their cherished children: son Michael Jackson, along with his partner Kevin Mulrennan of Rome, GA, and daughter Melanie (Howard) Absher of Plant City, FL. He also embraced many step-children into his heart: Mitchell Stewart, John (Melina) Stewart, Valerie (David) Chandler, and Vanessa Falstreaux. His legacy continues through his adoring grandchildren: David, Justin, Jessy, Michelle, Jaime, Julie, Kandice, Erin, Ethan, and Elise, as well as 17 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to his life.
Max was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Virginia Brown Jackson.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM, held at Archer-Milton Funeral Home, Lake Butler with Pastor Harold Hudson officiating. He will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Sapp Cemetery with military honors.
Archer-Milton Funeral Home is honored to serve Max's family during this time. 386-496-2008 www.archerfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
55 N Lake Ave, Lake Butler, FL 32054
People and places connected with Max
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Max Jackson
Tell your own story about Max
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Make a Donation
in Max Jackson's name
How to support Max'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 Max 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 more
