Charles E. Jackson

Charles Edward Jackson was a Traveling Man. Born August 27, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, he is preceded in death by his parents Albert Jackson, Sr. and Bertha Jackson Momon, and his brother, Albert Jackson, Jr.

Charles was the ultimate jazz enthusiast. Some of his favorite musicians were Charlie Mingus, Dizzie Gillespie, Dinah Washington, Lionel Hampton, Dave Brubeck, and Miles Davis. Charles traveled the globe following the jazz circuit in Europe and across America.

For 23.5 years, Charles actively served in the US Navy before retiring in 1979. The Navy moved his family from Tennessee to Virginia, South Carolina, Michigan, California, and Japan before settling his family in Bellevue, Washington. We believe he took the Navy’s slogan, “It’s Not Just A Job, It’s An Adventure,” and applied it to his life. If you travel somewhere, he’s probably been there, done that, bought the tee-shirts, and the post cards. So, think of him on your next journey, and remember his quirky sense of humor, wide smile, friendly nature, and genuine appreciation of God’s marvelous handiwork—which includes each of you.

Charles’ illness went unnoticed by many, as he never allowed it to run his life—he was too busy enjoying every minute of it! But, like all good journeys, his life on this side of time came to a close on Wednesday, March 17, 2010. He and his wife Evelyn, would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 6, 2010, and were in the midst of planning that celebration when he was called to rest. Charles is survived by son, William Peeples (Lisa), from Chicago; daughters Karen and Charlotte Jackson, and sons Charles “Reggie” ( Angela) and Rubin (Cari) Jackson; and seven grandchildren: Jamila and Ayana Eagans, Justin Peeples, and Steele, Sophia, Mason and Audrey Jackson. He is also survived by a half-sister, Betty Jo Watson, of Maryland; Sister-in-Law Marian Jackson, of Memphis, Tennessee; and a host of nieces, nephews, and many friends from near and far.

We will truly miss him.

Arrangements under the direction of Sunset Hills Funeral Home, Bellevue, WA.