"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." Psalm 1:1-3

Very quietly and gently on Friday, October 21, 2016, Almighty God dispatched his angels to guide our loved one to his heavenly home. Jesse of Woodford, Virginia peacefully entered into eternal rest at his home.

Jesse the third child of Thomas and Carrie Jackson was born April 2, 1930. As a child, he spent most of his time living with his grandfather Louis Washington who lovingly nicked named him, "Buddy". Many of his life principles and spiritual foundations came from him. He received his education in Caroline County Public Schools before attending Virginia Union University. He later enlisted in the United States Army and achieved the rank of Sergeant, serving eight years. While enlisted in the Army and traveling back and forth from camp and to home a young lady caught his eye. He was determined to win her heart. He would often invite her to attend service at his church and surrounding church services, the more churches they attended the more time they spent together.

He married the love of his life Thelma R. Williams on March 24, 1956. To this union four children were born. He was employed by the Federal Government and retired after twenty-five years. Among his hobbies, Jesse was an avid reader and loved books of all types, but especially mysteries and Christian works. There were times when he would start a book and would not put it down until he finished it. He loved to fly. Often he would go to Shannon Airport in Fredericksburg with a former co-worker to fly for hours.

Jesse was a faithful member of Zion Grove Baptist Church in Woodford, VA where he served on the Deacon Ministry for more than fifty years, and continued to serve until his passing. Deacon Jackson was known throughout the community for his rich biblical knowledge, powerful prayers, and life changing godly wisdom. He loved to share his love for the Lord with everyone. People often sought his council because of his gentle manner, strong character and sound spiritual advice. He previously served as Chairman of the Deacon Ministry, President of the Caroline Sunday School Union, President of the Baptist Training Union, Member of the Mattaponi Baptist Association, Member of the Men's Choir and Senior Choir, Kitchen Community member, and his greatest joy was Adult Sunday School Teacher. He was also a lifelong member of the NAACP.

Jesse was predeceased by his loving parents Thomas and Carrie Jackson, three brothers; Louis Jackson, Leonza Jackson, Herbert Jackson and two sisters Marlene Simpson, Carrie Garnett and his loving wife Thelma R. Jackson.

He leaves to cherish his memory and to continue his legacy four children, Walzora D. Jackson of Woodford; Carson M. Jackson (Brenda) of Spotsylvania; Robin N. Jackson of Richmond; and Carroll L. Jackson (Viola) of Woodford; three foster children Tina Turner, Teresa Pleasant, and Robert Turner; six grandchildren Nichole Jackson, Shauniece Taylor, Kiersten Jackson, LaTasha Jackson, Porscha Robinson, and Julian Jackson; five foster grandchildren Tierra Turner, Tavon Pleasants, Tiona Turner, Tevin Pleasants and John Turner; two great grandchildren; Rashawn Rollins, and Aniah Taylor; three foster great grandchildren Quinton Latney, Jr., Destinei Turner, and Lamar Turner; Two brothers Webster Jackson (Karen), Ryland Jackson (Cynthia), one sister Joyce Watson and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Visitation: Friday, October 28, 2016 from 4 PM to 7 PM at Zion Grove Baptist Church, 9450 Fredericksburg Turnpike, Woodford, Virginia 22580

Christian Wake: October 28, 2016 from 7 PM to 8 PM at Zion Grove Baptist Church, 9450 Fredericksburg Turnpike, Woodford, Virginia 22580

Celebration of Life Service: October 29, 2016 at 2 PM, Zion Grove Baptist Church, 9450 Fredericksburg Turnpike, Woodford, Virginia 22580

Burial/Interment: Church Cemetery

Eulogist: Rev. Kenneth Grasty

Services of comfort entrusted to: C. W. Edwards Funeral Home, Inc. of Bowling Green, Virginia.