Deacon James Edward Jackson

James Edward Jackson was born January 8, 1952 in Indianapolis, Indiana to the late Edward Ozane Jackson and Erma Jean Smith-Jackson. On the morning of April 4, 2020, comfortably at home, the angel of silence came to seal the lips of our beloved. Whose soul winged in fight from this world of sin, sorrow and pain; to a place of eternal rest, joy, peace and happiness.

James was a founding member of Sunrise Missionary Baptist Church. Where he was baptized at an early age. Later, attending Pilgrim Chapel Missionary Baptist Church where he attended for several years and was Ordained as a Deacon on August 1, 1999. Deacon Jackson became a member of International Fellowship of Christian and Jews and was a faithful member until the end. James has two children that he loved dearly, Vatania “Shawn Shawn” Purnell and Stephen “Steve” Hutchinson.

James attended Indianapolis Public Schools #56 and #110. After completing Harry Wood High School in 1970, James enlisted in the United States Army in 1972. After his Honorable discharge, James attended Federal Truck Driving School in Indianapolis. This would lead to James’ Professional Truck Driving Certification and CDL on March 21, 1989. James would drive for 12 years before retiring. James then decided to take on a new career at Lavenia, Smith and Summers Home for Funerals which is now, Lavenia & Summers Home for Funerals. Deacon Jackson would be a dedicated employee and friend to everyone he would meet during his career. James loved any open road trip that would come his way and never hesitated to drive. He loved sharing the word of God, every choice he was given. James loved the Lord.

Deacon James Edward Jackson was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Erma Jackson; sister, Cheryl Kay Jackson Jenkins; and brother, William Harry Jackson. Leaving to cherish in his loving memories: a daughter, Vatania Purnell (Harambee); a son, Stephen Hutchinson Sr. (Patricia); five grandchildren, four boys and one girl: Elgin, Donald, Tierra, Sean and Stephen Jr.; four great-grandchildren: Josh, Joshua, Taylor and Darnel; three nieces: Laura (Michael), Sarah and Adrienne; three great-nieces: Selena, Kayla and AreAsjia; one great-nephew, Jailyn; one great-niece due in July; and a host of loving relatives and friends.