John T. Jackson, Jr.

John Thomas “TJ” Jackson, Jr. entered this life on July 16th, 1934, in Harrisburg, PA. He gained his wings on June 15th, 2024, at the ripe age of 89. Preceding him in death are his parents, John Thomas Jackson, Sr. & Mary Smith Jackson, sisters Jeanette Hollis, Betty Ann Clemons, Doris Sherrer, Deborah “Debbie” Fields, brothers Joseph R. Jackson, Sr., James Jackson, and Edward “Eddie” Jackson. TJ, as his family affectionally knew him, was reared in Library, PA, outside of Pittsburgh. He attended Snowden Township High School, and from there, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he entered the Korean War in 1951 and served until 1955, when he was Honorably Discharged. He returned to Library, PA, where he worked numerous jobs until he re-enlisted in the armed forces of the United States Army from 1961 to 1964, where he once again received an Honorable Discharge. His service to his country was a source of great pride for TJ. He was later employed with the United States Postal Service in PA until his transfer in 1966 to a branch in Washington, DC, where he was employed until his retirement in 1989. TJ was a long-standing Master Mason of Danie Lodge #5, Shriner Allah Temple #1 (Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, Washington, DC), and retired as a 33rd Degree Past Grand Master. He was also a long-standing member of American Legion Post 259 in Clinton, MD, with 26 years of dedicated service until his decline in health. He enjoyed watching golf openings on television, reading his Bible daily, and enjoying time with his family and grandchildren. TJ was a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers fan. However, he secretly enjoyed watching Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs saying, “That Boy is Bad!” We would constantly tease him about liking two teams from the AFC, and those teases would be missed. His other hobby was making daily runs for lottery scratch-offs at the local convenience store. He was also a huge advocate of holistic remedies, as there wasn’t one herb he wasn’t familiar with that could assist with almost any illness. If you were sick, he had a remedy. The family was afraid even to say anything was wrong because we knew what would follow. We all knew it was out of concern for the love of his family near and far; the assignment was understood, and we appreciated him for it. Anyone who knew TJ knew he was passionate about his faith. He faithfully attended Holy Family Catholic Church in Temple Hills, MD, as a member of the Usher Board, Men’s Club, and Hospitality Ministry. His commitment to his church and community was a source of inspiration for all who knew him. He attended Mass regularly until his untimely passing. Left to cherish in his memories are his wife Gladys Diane Jackson, of 56 years., son Norman, and daughters Gigi and Angela (David) Schuller. Grandchildren: Jasmine, Matthew, Antonio, great-granddaughter Michelle, two sisters, Shirley Jackson & Brenda Woods of Pittsburgh, PA, and a numerous host of nieces, nephews, and family members. Lovingly Submitted by The Family

Tributes

John T. Jackson, Jr.

July 16, 1934 - June 15, 2024