Leonard Joseph Jackson

Affectionately known as Lenny, he will be remembered by many for his love of jazz and classical music, a wonderful sense of humor and a love for nature and gardening. But more importantly, this comforting soul related to others on a deep, personal level and understood the importance of kindness, providing artful honesty and sharp wit that inspired the best from us all. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, he provided a protective and loving environment in which he emphasized the importance of being true to oneself and doing right by others.

Although retired following 23 years in sales with Greyhound Bus Lines in New York, he never truly slowed down. Leonard continued to pursue his interests through books, films, and articles covering history, philosophy and nature. His passion for all sports never ceased and there was always a game playing on a nearby radio or television. Once a cultivator of prize-winning roses, he enjoyed endless hours working in his garden and using his many other talents to help family, friends, and neighbors any way he could.

Leonard is survived by his wife Livia; nine daughters, Florence Jackson-Crockett, Althea (Nincus) Sealy, Janice Jackson, Margarita (Ann) Jackson, Joan Jackson, Clare Jackson, Trudy Jones, Christine Jackson and Monique Burke; his sister, Monica Abbot; 20 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Memorial service and visitation for Leonard Jackson will be from 5 until 9 PM at Fountainhead Funeral Home on Monday, January 9. Funeral services will be held at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Palm Bay on Tuesday, January 10 from 1 to 3 PM. The visitation and service is private and for family and invited guests only. He will be laid to rest at the Fountainhead Memorial Park in Palm Bay, Florida.