Deacon James Jackson (89) went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday January 9th, 2024. Mr. Jackson was born on March 25, 1934, in Bienville, Louisiana, to Henry Warren Jackson and Fannie Beatrice Quarles. Those who preceded him in death, his parents, his brothers Willie Jackson, Theodus Jackson, Theron Jackson, Joe Jackson and Sisters Silver Lee Nears and Fannie Hart.

James Accepted Christ at an early age in Bienville, Louisiana. He was ordained as a Deacon at Greater St John Baptist church in San Jose, CA. Where he served for years and mentored many young men coming up in the church.

After he retired from Waste Management, he moved back to Madera, CA, in 1994, rejoining his childhood church, Second Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as Deacon, Treasurer, and Superintendent of Sunday School. Throughout his life, he brought much joy, love, and prayers to his family and the many members of the church and the community. He was always willing to be of help and service when needed.

He was a Boxer (Tiger Jackson) for several years. He loved traveling with his wife and family. He loved fishing on his boat, named the “Chicken Ship.” But it didn’t matter what he was doing. He always had his overalls on and God in his heart (he even wanted to wear his overalls to his daughter’s wedding). James had a strong love for his family, and there was nothing that he wouldn’t do for them. The most important lesson he would show and share with them was always to give God their best and to put God first in everything they do.

His favorite saying was, “Never do evil for evil; let God handle it!” The family of James Otis Jackson would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to all who expressed acts of kindness through prayers, cards, flowers, visits, and phone calls. We pray that God richly blesses each and every one of you!

The Jackson family requests your presence for an evening viewing on Wednesday, January 24, from 3:00 pm-7:00 pm at Jay Chapel in Madera, CA. James' home-going celebration will be on Thursday, January 25, starting at 11:00 am at his church, The Second Missionary Baptist Church (828 South "A" Street Madera). Concluding this life celebration, James will be laid to rest at Arbor Vitae Cemetery, also located in Madera, CA.