Michael Jackson

Michael L. Jackson, 77, of Knoxville, TN and formerly of California, passed away March 22, 2026. Michael was a Vietnam Veteran having served in the Army and a member of High Desert Church in Victorville, CA. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Ellen Jackson; sons, Gary Jackson (Cynthia), Shaun Jackson (Heather) and Mark Jackson (Megan); beloved grandchildren, Christopher, Lauren, Josephine, Riley and McKenna. He was preceded in death by his parents, H.B. and Inez Jackson.

Michael was a devoted Christian whose love for the Lord guided every part of his life. He studied the Word faithfully and shared the gospel with joy, a passion reflected in the many mission trips he embraced over the years. One of the most meaningful was the Prayer Walk mission trip to China with his wife, Ellen—a journey that deeply moved him as he shared God’s love with the people he met. He often spoke of the people they met there, how deeply it moved him to witness faith blooming in quiet corners of the world. He also cherished the Youth Group mission to Mexico, where he helped build homes and formed lasting memories.

As a father, Michael’s love was steadfast and devoted. He cherished every moment spent with his children and pouring his heart into his family, every conversation, every shared meal, every ordinary moment that became extraordinary simply because it was spent together. His children knew they were deeply loved—not just in words, but in the way he showed up, again and again, with patience, warmth, and unwavering support.

Michael and Ellen built a beautiful life together, one stitched with friendship, laughter, and simple joys. Their bowling league in Victorville, CA wasn’t just a pastime; it was a circle of fellowship, a place where they found community and shared countless warm memories. Traveling together was one of their greatest delights, but nothing compared to the trips with their grandchildren. Those moments were pure treasure to him. He had a way of making each grandchild feel like the most important person in the world, and he was lovingly notorious for whisking them away from their parents for adventures only he could dream up.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

A Graveside Service will be held at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, California 90601, US, on April 8, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.  

Burial will take place on April 8, 2026, at Rose Hills Memorial Park, 3888 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, in the Garden of Devotion, Gate 1, Row 4, Lot 740, Space 3.