William Henry Jackson

William "Bill" H. Jackson-a man whose presence was a blessing to everyone who knew him. Born on May 9, 1943, in Gainesville, Alabama, to Rhodie Jenkins and Charlie Jackson, Bill's journey began in a small town, but his impact reached far and wide.

From an early age, Bill accepted Christ at Spring Valley Baptist Church, laying the foundation for a life rooted in faith. He attended Gainesville Jr. High and graduated from Sumter County Training School in Livingston, Alabama, with the Class of 1963. As a young man, he loved playing basketball and hunting-whether it was deer, rabbit, or turkey, he embraced the outdoors with joy.

In 1964, Bill moved to Boston, where he built a new chapter of his life. It was here that he met Sarah Clinckscales (Kindle) and became a devoted father to his sons, William "Biggie" H. Jackson II and Stephon "Skip" J. Jackson, as well as a loving stepfather to Leonard and Alethia Kindle. Later, on December 17, 1981, Bill married his soulmate, Shirley A. Miller. Their love was unwavering-they were truly inseparable.

Bill dedicated over 40 years of service to Amtrak, a testament to his hard work and commitment. Beyond his career, he was a pillar of his church community, serving faithfully at Concord Baptist Church under Pastor Conley Hughes for more than four decades. His voice graced the Brotherhood Men's Chorus, and his spirit uplifted everyone around him.

A graduate of Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts, Bill had a passion for cooking. Whether it was grilling, hosting fish fries, or making his famous potato salad, he brought people together through food and fellowship. His greatest joy was spending time with loved ones-sharing meals, laughter, and memories.

Affectionately known as "Slim" or "Boo," Bill was a man of many talents and endless love. He cherished fishing trips to Cape Cod, tending his garden, and playing dominoes at family cookouts. His life was rich with simple pleasures and deep connections.

Bill leaves behind a legacy of love and strength. He is survived by his son Stephon Jackson; grandchildren Angela (Omar) Brown, Kayla Kindle, Isaiah (Catarina) Meekins, Alethia Kindle, and Stephon Jackson II; nine great-grandchildren; his brother Mac Author (Betty) Jackson; sister Mary (John) Long; sister-like cousin Louise Wells; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved son William "Biggie" H. Jackson II, and sisters Annie Sparks and Elizabeth Jackson.

To know Bill was to know kindness, laughter, and unwavering faith. He will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was-a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His life reminds us that true greatness lies in love, service, and the joy of sharing life with others.

Rest in peace, Bill, the gentle giant. Your legacy lives on in all of us.