Wallace O'Neil "Jack" Jackman

A loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Wallace "Jack" O'Neil Jackman - fondly
known as Jackie or Jack Jackman - made his peaceful transition on October 27, 2025.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, and moving to Minnesota at the age of 13, Jack grew up in a family
whose roots run deep in community and service. He was the beloved son of Launa Quincy
(Jackman) Newman and Wallace O'Neil Jackman, and was lovingly guided by Cecil E.
Newman, who became a guiding father in his life and shared in raising and mentoring him - a
bond that later led Jack to become co-publisher of the Minneapolis Spokesman and St. Paul
Recorder, now the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR). He carried throughout his life a
steadfast belief in the power of truth, justice, community, and storytelling - values that became
the compass for his journey.
A man of principle and purpose, Jack lived his life anchored in kindness, hard work, and a
conviction that people are always worth investing in. His journey was one of both heart and
hustle. Over the years, he built a respected career marked by excellence, mentorship, and
service. Whether contributing to the world of publishing, supporting civic causes, or uplifting
those around him, Jack was known for showing up - ready to help, ready to lead, and ready to
make a difference. A lifelong people person, he loved to drive, travel, and strike up
conversations wherever the road took him.
Those who knew him best will remember his quick wit and signature "Jack-isms" - sharp one-
liners that could ease tension or fill a room with laughter. He had a gift for turning strangers into
friends and reminding everyone that life's challenges are easier to face with good humor and
good people.
Beyond his work and words, Jack's greatest joy was his family. He poured his heart into his
loved ones, his friends, and his community - always the first to offer wisdom and the one
everyone could count on. His influence endures through generations who carry forward his
lessons of integrity, humility, and compassion.
Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Launa Q. Newman and Wallace O'Neil Jackman,
Cecil E. Newman, his beloved wife, Lynda D. Jackman, and his sister, Norma Jean
Williams. He is survived by his children, Dauhn J. Jackman, Thomas D. Jackman, Christjon
Jackman (wife Jennifer), and Dr. Tonya Jackman Hampton (husband Phillip); his special
friend, Ruth Ann James; 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild;
and a wide circle of other family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at the
Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Parkway North, Saint Paul, MN 55104.
Program: 1:00–2:30 p.m., followed by grazing and fellowship. For virtual attendance: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83078091649?pwd=8v7Gap0HGX8FNRzmIETJO3tXtpj9hH.1,
Meeting ID: 830 7809 1649, Passcode: 296457.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes cards and donations to the American Cancer
Society: https://donate.cancer.org/g/cfcyfnvxcxzocvladxevrgbb/directed in his name. Cards can
be sent to P.O. Box 19054, Minneapolis, MN 55419-19054.
Jack's life was a living example of quiet leadership, humor in hardship, and love without
condition. His light will continue to guide all who had the privilege of knowing him - reminding
us to live generously, laugh often, and lead with heart.