Cecil L. Jackson

Command Sergeant Major (CSM) (RET) Cecil L. Jackson of Las Vegas, NV passed away peacefully in his home Tuesday morning February 12, 2024. Cecil Jackson a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother was born on May 28,1939 in Disputanta, VA to his loving parents Charles Ernest and Anne Eliza Jackson. From the tender age of 8 under the gentle guidance of his mother Cecil became a Christian, was baptized and became a member of Loving Union Baptist Church in Loving Union, VA. At age 9 Cecil assumed responsibilities beyond his years taking over the responsibility of cultivating his family's crops. This was after his father's near-fatal accident working at the Hercules Power Company in Hopewell, VA. Cecil’s unwavering work ethic and willingness to learn shaped him for the challenges ahead. Cecil graduated from Disputanta High School in Disputanta, VA in June of 1956 and enrolled in Virginia State College (VSU) in Petersburgh, VA. He attended VSU for three years before making the courageous decision to enlist into the United States Army. In February of 1959 Cecil was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division, at Fort Campbell, KY. Cecil acknowledged the need for a meaningful relationship and in June of 1963 he married Ernestine Holland from Chesapeake, VA, who he met in 1957 while both were attending Virginia State College. As a result of their holy union, they were blessed with two daughters. Cheryl born in October 1965 and Michelle born in November of 1966. In February of 1967 Cecil served a one-year tour in Vietnam. Amidst the uncertainty of war, Cecil found solace in his faith, leaning on God's strength and trusting in his plan for his safe return. Upon his homecoming in February of 1968 Cecil received the Army Commendation Medal for heroism, a testament to his bravery and dedication. He was reunited with his beloved family being grateful of his return and his life intact. Cecil retired from the United States Army in February of 1989 after serving 30 years of exemplary service. After retirement Cecil entered the civilian workforce as a Program Monitor for the Department of Corrections Re-entry program and later serving as the Director of a Veteran's Outreach Program with the United States Department of Veteran Affairs. Cecil is survived by his cherished wife Ernestine of 56 years, two daughters Cheryl (Donald) Akines Jackson, of Monterey, CA and Michelle (Timothy) Jarrett of Las Vegas, NV, five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, his sister Ethel (William) Felton, of Portsmouth, VA his brother Leon (Sharon) Jackson of Disputanta, VA, nieces, and nephews. Cecil is preceded in death by his parents Ernest C. Jackson, Anne E. Jackson; six sisters Marva, Ernestine, June, Brenda, Doris H. Jennings, Hazel A. Adams; and two brothers Rudy Willie, and Earl M. Jackson.

Cecil’s legacy endures through the lives he touched, the soldiers he led, and the countless hearts he impacted. Cecil will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. May the warmth of his memory and the blessings of a life well-lived bring comfort and peace to all who mourn his passing.