Samuel Andrew Jackson Jr.

Samuel Andrew Jackson, Jr's life journey began on June 24, 1934, in Montgomery, Alabama, and ended in Portland, Oregon on January 15, 2024, (Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday). He was the only child born to Samuel Andrew Jackson, Sr., and Lillie Dora Taylor Jackson. With the early death of Sam‘s mother, when he was 6 years old, it was extended family members who played a pivotal role in providing care and emotional support for Sam Sr. and his young son. Sam's character was shaped by his admiration and appreciation for God, his parents, and grandparents, Willis Jackson and Willie Lee Stewart Jackson.

Sam's dad eventually met and married a beautiful woman named Edith Larkin, and the three became one happy family in Montgomery, Alabama.

Sam attended St. John the Baptist Grade School, Montgomery, Al., graduated from St. Jude Educational Institute High School, Montgomery, Al., 1952, attended Xavier University, New Orleans, 1953, and graduated from Alabama State University, Montgomery, AI., 1957, with a B.S. degree in Secondary Education.

Soon, Sam Jr. met and married a beautiful lady named Mary Reese Jackson, (deceased). Together, they had four children, Samuel Andrew Jackson III, Lillie Dora Jackson, George Jackson, (deceased), and Anthony Jackson.

Sometime later, a friend of Edith Jackson invited her to Portland for a visit. It was during this trip that Edith fell in love with Portland, and decided this was where she wanted to plant roots. Soon, the family packed up their belongings, and moved to Portland in 1960, and never looked backed. After moving to Portland, the family became members of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Eventually, Sam, Sr. and Edith Jackson added three more beautiful children to the happy family; Essie (deceased), John, and Ezekiel Jackson.

In 1965, Sam Jr. met and married Amanda Perez Jackson in Portland, Or., 1965, (deceased). Together, they had one daughter, Maria T. Jackson McKinney. One of the many greatest memories of Samuel's lifetime during this time, was travelling to the Holy Land, 2006. After this experience, Sam developed an even greater relationship with God.

Samuel resided in Portland for 64 years, where he impacted many lives and institutions by his generous service to citizens and organizations throughout the State. Sam was appreciated for his wise counsel and the many creative solutions provided in the areas of racial justice, higher education, community development, and charitable services. He retired from Gunderson Corp. in 1998, after 34 years of service. Sam remained a faithful servant of the Lord throughout his lifetime.

Samuel loved good food, good music, (Blues), family, and “anything sports”. His professional life was remarkable and varied, and he always gave 150% to everything he was involved with. Samuel was surrounded by his loving family during his final moments. He will be remembered for his benevolence, spirituality, unwavering integrity and ceaseless willingness to make personal sacrifices for others. His compassion and leadership skills served him well and made him a pillar of strength for his family, the community, and for the many lives he touched along his journey. He was loved by all who knew him and he will be sorely missed.

Samuel is survived by his wife, Diane Jackson, four children, Samuel A. Jackson, III, (Tammy), Lillie

D. Jackson, Anthony J. Jackson, (Janet), and Maria T. Jackson McKinney, (Charles); 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 2 siblings: Ezekiel and John Jackson, cherished nieces, nephews and cousins, two daughters-in law, one son-in law, and a host of wonderful friends and acquaintances.

Our family wishes to extend a special thank you to Father Chuck Wood, Samuel's healthcare providers, namely Providence Medical Center and Staff, Legacy Heath Center and Staff, Rose Quarter Dialysis Center and Staff, The Portland Clinic and Staff, Safeway Broadway Pharmacy Staff, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, and to the most incredible neighbors and friends anyone could ever ask for.

Thank you,

The Family of Samuel Andrew Joseph Jackson Jr.