Henderson Melvin Jackson

Deacon-Emeritus Henderson Melvin Jackson was born November 3, 1922, to the late Clarence and Acrea Jackson. On Sunday, January 28, 2018, he began his transition, his golden earthly voice was silenced, the curvatures of his smile straightened, and his golden heart beat for the last time. He received his education in the Norfolk County School system where he graduated from Carver High School. After completing high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy at a time when "colored troops" were an unwelcomed sight. But he served his country with pride and dignity. After leaving the military, he was employed with Norfolk Naval Shipyard, as a rigger, for thirty-two years, retiring in 1975. Deacon Jackson accepted Christ at an early age and joined Divine Baptist Church. As a committed soldier for the Lord he led many souls to Christ. He was a faithful member of the Chesapeake & Portsmouth Rappahannock Sunday School Union where he served as President. As a member of Divine Baptist Church, he served in many capacities. He was passionate about the teaching of the Gospel especially as a Sunday School Teacher. After teaching for many years, he became Sunday School Superintendent. He served in this position for thirty years. He was also an ordained Deacon of the Church. After serving on the Deacon Board for fifty years, he earned the status of Deacon Emeritus in 2011. He met the love of his life; the late Rose Lee Valentine and they were united in holy matrimony. They were inseparable. She was the apple of his eye and she cherished him. He was a loving and dedicate husband caring for Rosa until her passing in 2012. They enjoyed seventy-one years of marriage. His family was his treasure and his three beautiful children were a gift from God. Sadly, he was preceded in death by his two daughters; Joyce Jackson Pearis and Joan Jackson Morgan; his brothers Clemit Jackson and Calvin Jackson; and his baby sister Irene Cuffee. He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving son, Melvin L. Jackson; a loving and dedicated daughter-in-law, Linda Jackson; his loving son in laws: Alvin Peairs and William Toliver; eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.

Henderson Melvin Jackson

November 3, 1922 - January 28, 2018