Forrest Jackson

Forrest Jackson, Sr. was born the third child to George and Addie Jackson in Jefferson County on August 5, 1948. He accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of New Salem Missionary Baptist Church. Forrest graduated proudly from George Washington Carver in 1966, where he was an outstanding football player under the leadership of Frederick Dudley. He then furthered his education at Alcorn State University then continued onto Miles College. While attending Miles he was recognized by the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) and awarded Lineman of the Year. He received his Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. Due to his exceptional sportsmanship and physical ability he was inducted into Miles College Hall of Fame. Because of his passion for the sport he became a remarkable coach and mentor to youth and young adults throughout the Birmingham and Bessemer area. In 1975 his special treasure was born, Forrest "Lil Jack" Jackson, Jr. on September 23rd with former spouse Cora Pompey. He was united in Holy Matrimony to Shirley Ann Franklin. Forrest departed this life early Saturday morning on October 10, 2015, one day shy of his twenty-fourth wedding anniversary. He was preceded in death by: parents, Addie and George Jackson; sister, Norma West-Cook; nephew, Norri Tinker, Sr.; loving son, Forrest Jackson, Jr. and best friend, Willie James Mack. Left to cherish his memories: a loving and devoted wife, Shirley A. Jackson; brothers, George (Maxine) Jackson and Jimmy (Mureldene) Jackson; sisters, Diane (Rev. William E.) Scott, Dorothy Mae (Booker T.) Harris and Paulette (Frederick) DeVaughn; aunt, Mary L. Peggins. Big Jack will be missed by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Third avenue and the entire Jonesboro Community will always remember his charismatic personality and witty sense of humor.