Deacon James R. Jackson was born on September 18 in Painesville, Ohio, and departed on March 20, 2023. He was the seventh child born to Nathaniel Jackson and Ruth Gordon Jackson-Caldwell. He was affectionately known as Babe by his wife, Bernice, Robby by his family, and JJ by his friends. A much-loved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend.
At an early age, Robby accepted Christ and was baptized at Union Congregation Church and a member of the choir as the lead singer. He attended Painesville City Schools.
Robby began his career working for the City of Painesville. With much drive and a zest for life he decided to change his careers and enlisted into the US Air Force as military police. While in the Air Force he traveled extensively to various countries.
After military retirement he and his wife Bernice settled down in Hampton, VA. He was the die-hard number one fan of the Washington Redskins. He had a great deal of Redskins (now the Commanders) paraphernalia.
Robby truly enjoyed his life and all that would come. He was a humorist, quick witted with a sarcastic flair. He loved dancing. He enjoyed playing racket ball until his health failed him. He was a serious and avid bid whist player.
Robby was a family man. He cherished visits with his family. He and BJ traveled all over the US to visit with his brothers, sister, nieces, nephews, and cousins for family affairs. He was a big eater. When his Mother would make Chili, he believed she made it exclusively for him. He would get the mixing bowl, put some rice in it, and fill the remainder of the bowl with chili.
Robby was also a Deacon at First Baptist Church of Hampton for 25 plus years.
Deacon Jackson is leaving his legacy to his wife of 36 years, Bernice Jackson; Sons, Eric Green, Robby Jr. (Tina), Jay, and Adam Goad (Jennifer); Daughters, Dianne and Vonita Jackson (Awais Bashir); 8 Granddaughters; 2 Great Grandchildren; Brothers, Johnny Ray Caldwell (Denise) and Jeffrey Jay Caldwell (Kendyl), Sister-n-law Mrs. Phillip Laurie Jackson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family near and far.
He is preceded in death by his mother -Ruth Gordon-Jackson Caldwell; father Nathaniel Jackson; Stepfather Cecil Caldwell; brothers Harold Jackson – Wife Merlene, Albert Douglas Jackson – wife Sanada, Gilbert L Jackson -wife Jacqueline, Phillip M Jackson, Sisters Loretta Boynton, and Ruby Jeanette.
