Clarence W. Jackson, Jr.

Lovingly known as “Sonny” and “Sonny Bubba”, Clarence Willie Jackson Jr. began his life’s journey on January 27, 1932, in Robstown, Texas. He was the sixth of seven children born to Clarence Willie and Bernice Mays Jackson. He entered eternal rest on February 25, 2025, in Washington, DC. Clarence was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Carroll; and his sisters, Betty Lou, Lila Lee, Tommye, Bernice “Tiny,” and Barbara “Mickey”; granddaughter Courtney Henry.

At an early age, Clarence was baptized at the Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Robstown, Texas, where his parents were founding members. He was educated at Solomon Melvin Cole’s High School and, after graduating in 1950, made the selfless decision to forgo college, knowing his parents could not afford to send both him and his younger sister, Mickey. Encouraging them to support her education, he instead enlisted in the United States Army, where he served with honor and distinction for 20 years. A combat wounded Korean War veteran, Clarence was awarded the Purple Heart in recognition of his bravery and sacrifice.

During his military service, he worked as a chef, a skill that became a lifelong passion and brought joy to family and friends for years to come. He took immense pride in preparing good food and loved indulging in his favorite dishes—Texas BBQ and ribs, enchiladas, sausage and fried oysters. His love for barbecue was so deep that he had a custom-built barbecue pit made in Texas and shipped to his home, ensuring that his briskets and ribs were cooked to perfection.

His Army career took him around the world, including Italy, France, Belgium, Japan, and Germany, shaping his love for travel and new experiences. While stationed at Fort Meade, Maryland, Clarence met the love of his life, Carlene Victoria Henry. They married on Christmas Day in 1957, embarking on a journey filled with love, adventure, and unwavering devotion to family.

Following his distinguished military career, Clarence served as a United States Capitol Police officer in Washington, DC. He took great pride in his role and retired after two decades of dedicated service, embracing the joys of travel with Carlene, his dear friends, “The Boswells”, and his beloved family. Among his favorite traditions was his annual trip to Las Vegas with his sister Mickey and brother-in-law Finley, often joined by his children, creating treasured memories. One of Clarence’s most memorable trips was a Hawaiian island cruise for Carlene's 75th birthday, with his daughter and son-inlaw. This adventure was made even more meaningful by a visit to Pearl Harbor, a bucket-list destination that Clarence had always dreamed of seeing, allowing him to pay his respects and reflect on the history that shaped his own military service.

At home, Clarence had many passions that made life richer. He had a deep love for music, especially Blues and Oldies, and he and Carlene often went with friends to see live performances, including the legendary KoKo Taylor, the “Queen of Blues” and BB King, filling their home with soulful melodies. He was also an avid fan of Western movies, never passing up a good classic.

Clarence also had a love for playing cards, especially poker, where his quick wit and competitive spirit shone. When he wasn’t at the card table, he could often be found enjoying a relaxing swim in his pool, one of his favorite pastimes.

Clarence was a hardworking and resourceful businessman who ensured his family’s security and comfort. He also had a deep appreciation for style and took great care in his appearance. His son, Clarence III—affectionately known as “Rocky”—shared his father’s appreciation for fashion, mirroring his polished and refined look.

Another of Clarence’s passions was owning Cadillacs. He took great pride in purchasing, maintaining, and driving them throughout his life, viewing each as a symbol of his hard work and achievements.

Above all, Clarence’s greatest joy was spending time with Carlene. Their home was the heart of countless family celebrations special occasions and simple gatherings filled with laughter and love. He never missed an opportunity to spoil his wife, and even after 67 years of marriage, his devotion to her remained unwavering, shining just as brightly in his final days.

Clarence deeply loved all his children, Clarence III, Joseph Henry, and Maria Yvette Young, who returned that love and admiration wholeheartedly. He also took immense pride in watching his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins grow into exceptional individuals. Whether sharing wisdom, recounting stories from his travels, or cheering for his beloved Washington Redskins/Commanders, he treasured every moment spent with them. They, in turn, looked up to him with admiration, carrying forward the values and lessons he instilled in them.

Despite making a life outside of Texas, Clarence always held his childhood home close to his heart. Visiting family for reunions or simply reconnecting with loved ones brought him tremendous joy, keeping his Texas roots alive in spirit and memory.

Clarence’s life was a testament to love, service, and generosity. He was always there to lend a helping hand, putting family first in everything he did. His legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 67 years, Carlene Victoria Jackson; three children: Clarence Willie “Rocky” Jackson III (Shelia) of Capitol Heights, MD; Joseph Edward Henry (Laverne) of Bowie, MD and Maria Yvette Young (Walter) of Beltsville, MD; seven grandchildren: Doelice (Brandon) Champion, Theresa (Randy) Tracey, Rannieta (Joey) Torres, Sean Young, Brian Young, Joseph Henry Jr and Lawren Henry; nine great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Willis Henry; two sister-in-law’s Betty and Gloria Henry; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, special cousins Elmer “Buddy” Brown and Charlie Blandford; and beloved friends Robert and Shelley Boswell, Robert and Valerie Mallett. Honorable friends Reginald, Leona, Gerald, Martina, Priscilla, Esco, Keith, Mark, Wanda, Ernest and Billy affectionately called him “Dad” or “Pops”.

A visitation for Clarence will be held Friday, March 14, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM followed by funeral service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home, 11800 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904.

Clarence will be laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery, 1 Memorial Ave, Arlington, Virginia 22211.

At a future date, to be determined.