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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)— The world bid farewell to Rev. Jesse Jackson on Tuesday, as reported by NBC. A stalwart in the fight for civil rights, a revered Baptist minister, and a former two-time contender for the U.S. presidency, Jackson passed away at the age of 84.
The Jackson family shared their sorrow with a heartfelt statement:
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of the esteemed Civil Rights champion and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. His peaceful departure on Tuesday morning occurred with loved ones by his side. His relentless dedication to justice, equality, and human rights fueled a worldwide movement for freedom and dignity. A catalyst for change, he empowered the marginalized—from his presidential runs in the 1980s to inspiring millions to vote—leaving a lasting legacy on history.
Rev. Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, their children—Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, Jacqueline, and daughter Ashley Jackson—as well as his grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Burns Jackson; his father, Noah Louis Robinson; and his stepfather, Charles Henry Jackson.
Reverend Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; their children — Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, Jacqueline; daughter Ashley Jackson, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Burns Jackson; father, Noah Louis Robinson; and stepfather, Charles Henry Jackson.
“Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” said the Jackson family. “We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”
Public observances will be held in Chicago. Final arrangements for Reverend Jackson’s celebration of life services, including all public events, will be released by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition at www.rainbowpush.org and www.jessejacksonlegacy.com.
Jackson was hospitalized in November 2025 with a rare neurological disorder. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease around a decade ago, but his Rainbow/PUSH organization said that he remained under observation for progressive supranuclear palsy.