James Jackson

James Jackson was born on July 29, 1953, in New Madrid, Missouri, to Maebell Jackson Powell and James Cathey. He moved to Benton Harbor as a young boy and has remained a resident for approximately 64 years. He was a graduate of Benton Harbor High School class of 1973 where he honed his skills in basketball. In 1985 he married Leah (Buckles) Dudley. He worked at Whirlpool for many years and Benton Harbor Area Schools for 25+ years. He also worked at multiple other places including Union Memorial AME Church.

James, also known as Big Jack or Jack, was passionate about playing basketball and played in high school as well as throughout his adulthood, wherever and whenever he could.  His love for fishing was undeniable and infectious to the point that a couple of his children were almost born on the river and those children were fishing with him as soon as they were old enough.  He was very proud of his children and grandchildren and loved them very much.  James had an exceptional work ethic.  Whatever the task, he completed it efficiently without complaint.  He said many times that he would never stop working.  He did just that and worked until he became unable.  James lived his life as a gracious giver and enjoyed helping others. With his love of helping others, he tried to accommodate each person’s needs despite any of life’s challenges he may personally be experiencing.  James was a friend to many. That sentiment was shown on his face with a big smile whenever you saw him, and he rarely forgot a name or a face.  James loved people and truly enjoyed his life.

Sadly, on Palm Sunday morning, March 24, 2024, the sun set on James’s life. He succumbed to Lewy Body dementia at the age of 70. During the progression of this tragic and difficult disease, James was not afraid and never complained just as he was in his life. His wife was at his side throughout.

James leaves to celebrate his life with his loving wife of 39 years, Leah Jackson; one son, Eric Burton; three daughters, Angela Burton, Dr. Sarah (Malcomb) Ross, and Jacqueline (Eugene) Perry, and a bonus daughter, Adreanne Dudley; he leaves nine grandchildren, two bonus grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren; three brothers, Kelvin Powell, Melvin Powell, and Albert Jr.; three sisters, Brenda Powell, Carolyn Powell, and Jane Powell as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends and a special friend, Nate Williams.

He was preceded in death by his mother Maebell Powell, his dad James Cathey, and his sister Josephine (Susie) Powell.

James loved God, his family, and life.  He lived without expecting anything from anybody but gave whatever he could whenever needed.  He will be sorely missed and never forgotten.

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