Mr. Jewell Jackson Jr.

Mr. Jewell Jackson Jr. was born August 6, 1942 in Clarkedale, AR to the late Jewell Sr. and Sarah Jackson. As a small boy his parents moved to Ohio, where he and his seven younger siblings were raised in Urbancrest. Educated in the Southwestern City School District, as a young man he worked as a laborer at a number of companies before joining the City of Columbus Department of Sanitation.

Jewell was known by all around him for his ready smile, hearty laughter, and joy he found from spending time with friends and family. He poured that same spirit and energy into service for his Lord, after giving his life to Christ at the Grace Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio. Later, he transferred his membership to Union Baptist Church in Urbancrest, where he participated in Bible Study, Sunday Church School, Men's Ministry, Male Chorus, and as a member of church administration staff for as long as his health permitted. His commitment to God remained strong as he enjoyed visits from the deacons, pastor, and other friends, and talked continually about the love he had for the Savior. Whether at a family reunion, a holiday party, a work site, a worship event, or even in a hospital room, Jewell's sense of humor and willingness to befriend anyone made him a favorite in any circle. He will surely be missed by all.

Jewell is preceded in death by parents Jewell Jackson Sr. and Sarah (Towns) Jackson; brother John Towns; sister Dorothy Ellis; brother-in-law Paul Ellis; and son Marlon Jackson, as well as long-term companion Ms. Rita Smoot. He leaves to cherish his memory, sons Jewell (Doreesa) Jackson III and Jermaine (Nikki) Jackson; daughters Pamela Davis and Elizabeth "Libby Ann" Jackson; grandchildren Andre, Keira, Jewell IV, Dorico, Shyla, Lamiya, Chantele, Jaqeela, China, Dayshawn, Dayonta, Aaliyah, Adrian, Jada, and Makayla; great-grandchildren Jewell V, Shylisa, Saviana, DeShawn, LeAnya, Jaedon, D'Andre, Tiana, Janiya, Ja'karrah and Courtnae; brothers James (Dorothy) Towns, Robert (Wendy) Jackson, Lorenzo (Phyllis) Jackson, Clefton (Deborah) Jackson, Edward Jackson and Sidney Jackson; sisters Geraldine Cooper and Kattie Groce; aunt Lucille Crockett; stepsons Ron Smith and Delando (LaTonya) Smith; special nieces Erika, Vanessa and Tiffany; special nephew Daquan; and a host of other dear relatives and friends.

Jewell departed to be with the Lord on October 26, 2010, at Doctors Hospital. Even in the midst of the health concerns that plagued him for the last several years, Jewell (affectionately known as "Mandingo" or "Action Jackson") found joy in life, and was especially appreciative of any time he could spend with his children and family. He has surely made his impression on us all, and will never be forgotten. Rest in your reward, our Jewell, rest in your reward…