William "Bernard" Jackson

William "Bernard" Jackson was born on November 25, 1967, to his loving parents, William B. Melton and Mary Alice Jackson in Clarksdale, MS. Bernard passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Carle Methodist Hospital in Peoria, IL. Bernard accepted Christ at an early age. Later in life he joined the Male Chorus at the Church of the Living God. He loved to tell jokes, and he impersonated Bernie Mac. We are celebrating the life of a remarkable man, whose love touched everyone he encountered. He was kind, compassionate, and truly a people person---someone who made others feel seen, valued, and cared for. His heart was deeply devoted to his children, whom he loved beyond measure. And his love for his mother and siblings was unwavering. Family meant everything to him.
Each day, Bernard made it a point to uplift others by sending encouraging and inspirational messages, reminding people that they mattered and that hope was always within reach. His words, his laughter, and his genuine spirit brought light into so many lives. He was an all-around good person---one who lived with integrity and generosity. Bernard attended Sovereign Grace MBC and Church of the Living God of Peoria, IL.
Bernard was a father to eight children, Zachary Herron, Christian "Javon" Thomas, Kaneisha "KeKe" Jackson, Andria Herron, and William "BJ" Jackson, Jamal Jackson, and Jared Jackson all of Peoria, IL., and Deontay Jackson of Atlanta, GA.
Bernard had six grandchildren, Makenzye Carter, Xavier Thomas, Roniya Buford, Jamere Herron, Taysan Jackson, and Dallas Archibald.
Bernard had four brothers, William Melton of Hornlake, MS, Anthony Melton of Waukegan, IL., Steve (Jenicia) Jackson, and Nickolas Jackson both of Peoria, IL.
Bernard had four sisters, Rosena (Bishop Kennedy) Branch of Jonesboro, AR, Tina Gray, Trina Williams both of Peoria, IL., and Kenyata Peyton of Indianapolis, IN.
Bernard's uncles and aunts, Silas Winters Jr., Michael Winters, Ora Jean Winford, Johnnie Mae Sanders, Beulah Merritt, Lena Mae Miller, Virgie Miller, and Great Aunt Emma L. Johnson. And a host of family and friends.
Bernard was preceded in death by his grandparents: Silas and Clara Winters, W.B. and Mary Melton, a brother: Terrance Carroll, an uncle: Curtis Winters, aunts: Cloverine Winters, Glenda Fisher, Ruby Johnson, and Dorothy Milton and cousin: Zaneta Winters.