Willie (BO) James Jackson

Mr. Willie James Jackson Sr. (Bo) was born in the Old Hillsboro Community in Strong, AR, on July 26, 1930, to the late Bonie and Mamie Jones Jackson. On Tuesday, June 29, 2021, he departed this life at the VA Hospital in Little Rock, AR.

 Willie was preceded in death by his spouse, Geraldine Paige Jackson; three brothers-Barney Jackson, Ben Jackson, and Odell Jackson. Four sisters-Lizzie Mae Jackson, Elizabeth Jackson, Essie Mae Jackson, Daisy Jackson. One daughter-Marianetia Bullock Jones; son-Michael Andrew Jackson; Nephews-Ocie Washington and Ocie Jackson; one niece-Carolyn Jackson; and one grandson, Darry Jackson, Jr.

Willie confessed his belief in Christ early in life, where he was a member of the Hillsboro Church (now Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church) where he remained until death. He once served in the capacity of Deacon and Church Clerk.

 Willie believed in providing for the family. His occupation was working and repairing autos. He worked at Reed’s Body Shop many years before venturing out and starting his own business (Jackson Body Shop), where he skillfully worked for over 40 years before his health began to fail.

 Willie was a PFC in the US Armed Forces, where he served during the Korean War and received an honorary discharge in 1953. He was also a member of the Providence Lodge #94 Knights of Pythians and the St Joseph #37.

Willie will always be remembered as “Bo Jackson” and “Big Daddy.” He was a quiet, humble, and God-fearing man with great wisdom. He was quite knowledgeable when it came to sharing the Word of God and everyday life situations. He was well respected by those who knew and admired him. He shared many facets of his life with great joy and enthusiasm and would always use his most quoted phrase to his children “just keep on living.”

Willie leaves to cherish his precious memories of six sons-Melvin Bullock of Oakland, CA, Willie Jackson Jr (Sheila); Larry Jackson, Darry Jackson (Erma); Russell Jackson, all of El Dorado, AR; Jerry Jackson of Kansas City, MO. Two daughters-Cynthia Jackson-Williams of El Dorado, AR, and Pamela Jackson of Oberlin, OH. Twenty-one grandchildren, thirty-six great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.