Willie Rea Jackson

Willie R. Jackson, 85, affectionately known as “Jack” passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at the RI Veterans Home where he spent the last few years of his life being cared for by loving, compassionate staff.  The family appreciates the Staff and Nurses who went above and beyond to make his transition a comfortable one.  Our heartfelt thanks to the Foxtrot Neighborhood Team—Dr. Paul Agatiello, Joe Ryder, Tasha Hendricks, Melody Lee, Jennifer “JJ” Jones, Manny Moniz, Lindsey Walsh, and a special shout out to Ursula Sousa whom he called “Stella”, and Juanita Price who made sure “Willie J.” was extremely comfortable and nurtured him until the end.

Mr. Jackson leaves his loving, sweet wife Mrs. Lula Mae Jackson (the kindest woman on earth); 2 sons, Willie R. Jackson Jr. of Pensacola, FL; Timothy Jackson & His wife Katja of Stuggart, Germany; his daughters, Lisa Jackson and the late Sherita Collins; many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and close friends he has known since he moved to RI in 1960.

Born and raised in Picayune, MS, the son of Earlie J. Jackson & Evelyn (Jones) Jackson.  He was the brother of the late Georgia Mae Nunley.  In his early years, Mr. Jackson grew up in a community where everyone knew each other with relatives living on both side of the street.  After high school, he joined the US Army and the discipline and patriotism he learned in the Army never left him.  While in the Army, he graduated from Airborne School (44th Company). He was proud to serve His country and fought for the freedom of Americans in both the Korean War & Vietnam War.

Mr. Jackson was a Machinist for Federal Products and retired after 25 years of service.

He was a member of the American Legion. An avid fisherman, he joined the Fisherman’s Club in Providence.  “Jack” loved to go fishing at Palmer River, Stomp Pond, the Jamestown Bridge, and under the Mt. Hope Bridge.  His favorite species of fish was Rainbow Trout which he caught out of the waters of Lincoln Woods. In the late 70’s when the weather permitted, His love of fishing continued as he would go “Ice Fishing” at Lincoln Woods! 

Jack was also a small-game hunter who caught peasants in the Buck Hill and Durphy Hill Regions and hunted squirrels & rabbits in Ashton, RI along the Blackstone Valley River.

Mr. Jackson was a great Chess Player and would spend a lot time playing Chess with his grandson Nolan & son-in-law, Jerry Mitchell. When Mr. Jackson would lose a game, he would accuse Jerry of “cheating” and would kick him out of His house and invite him back over the next day to play chess again.

  The service and burial are open to the public. May his soul rest in peace.

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