Mr. Samuel James Jackson Sr.

In Loving Memory Of Deacon Samuel James Jackson Sr., a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, was born on February 29, 1948, in Schlater, Mississippi, to Willie B. and Mayola Jackson. Samuel was 9th of 13 children to this union. Samuel grew up in a tight-knit family and was called home on January 21, 2025, at the age of 76. Samuel’s life was a true testament to faith in God, service, and the deep love he had for his family and community. In 1953, the Jackson family relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where Samuel became an active member of Mt. Elliott Street Church of God in Christ. It was there, at a young age, that Samuel accepted Christ as his Savior, and his faith remained central to his life. Samuel attended Detroit public schools and proved to be a gifted athlete. He excelled in track and field at Southeastern High School, setting school records and earning varsity letters. His accomplishments as an athlete were a reflection of his drive and determination. Samuel graduated from Southeastern High School in 1967, ready to face the world with pride and ambition. In December 1967, Samuel enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country during the Vietnam War. He was trained as a field radio mechanic. He fought in the Tet Offensive at the Battle of Bien Hoa (Ben Wah) and returned home in 1969, receiving numerous accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and a Marksmanship Badge (Rifle). Samuel’s patriotism and bravery left a lasting impact. Upon his return from Vietnam, Samuel joined his brother Elder Willie B. Jackson Jr’s church, Redeem Church of God in Christ, in Detroit, where he remained an active member. Samuel’s career began as an electrical technician at the Detroit City Airport and later continued at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, where he worked for over a decade with the Federal Aviation Administration before retiring. In 2004, Samuel moved to South Carolina, where he continued his service to the Lord as a valued member of Universal Outreach Church of God in Christ, where Dr. Alonzo Johnson is the Senior Pastor. For a number of years, he was the sound technician for the church. After several years of service, he was installed as a Deacon at Universal, where he remained a faithful member until his transition. Samuel’s passions extended far beyond his work and faith. He was an exceptional chess player, an avid fisherman, and enjoyed cooking, playing backgammon, and indulging in his love for firearms. Samuel was often described as a “man’s man”—a man of integrity, who valued keeping his word and showing kindness to others. Above all, his greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren, whom he adored with all his heart. Before his tour in Vietnam, Samuel and Ruth (McKee) Mays shared a daughter. Upon returning from the war, Samuel married Pauline McClellan, and together they had three sons. After their divorce, Samuel married former wife Diane Venier in 1987, and they shared 31 years of marriage. From this union, they shared three daughters. Samuel’s love for his family was boundless, and his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him were fortunate to be touched by his kindness and devotion. Samuel was preceded in death by his parents, Willie B. and Mayola Jackson; brothers Elder John Edwards, Otha B., Elder Willie B. Jr, Neopoleon, Robert, and Michael; sisters Ruthie May, Bernice, and Helen; his son, Samuel James Jackson Jr.; and grandsons Johnny Eddie Vertz and Moses Lamar Fenn. He is survived by his brother Freddie Jackson (Madelene), sisters Annie Latham (Al) and Diane McGee (Bobby), and his children Gloria Lyn McKee, Kareem Abdul Jabbar Jackson (Tia), Willie B. Jackson III (Angela), Natasha Scott, Marjorie Hoff (Sidney), and Rebekah Counts. Samuel also leaves behind 22 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and a host of loving relatives and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. Samuel James Jackson Sr. lived a life filled with courage, faith, and unwavering dedication to his family. His legacy of love, service, and loyalty will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Samuel. You will always be dearly missed by those who loved you.

Mr. Samuel James Jackson Sr.

March 1, 1948 - January 21, 2025