Mr. Gerald Jackson was born on April 10, 1960, in Milledgeville, Georgia, to the late Albert Jackson, Sr. and Eva “Ray” Jackson. He attended the Baldwin County School System and was a proud member of the Class of 1978. At an early age, he joined Lee’s Chapel AME Church and later moved his membership to El Bethel Baptist Church.

Following high school, Gerald served his country in the National Guard. In 1979, he was united in holy matrimony to his high school sweetheart, Barbara Jean Sanford-Jackson. Together, they shared 47 years of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. They could often be found swinging and enjoying the rhythm of music at family and friends’ gatherings.

Gerald developed a passion for building at a young age and found great joy working in the carpentry field. In his later years, he continued to use his gifts by remodeling bathrooms and installing hardwood floors.

In 2012, he deepened his commitment to the Lord when he was ordained as a Deacon at El Bethel Baptist Church. Deacon Jackson loved to sing hymns and bring joy to the congregation. His favorites, “There’s Another Man Coming” and “This Is the Getting Ready Room,” would have the entire church on their feet. He was also a proud member of the Baldwin County Deacons’ Union. Deacon Jackson truly loved his church and his church family.

Gerald was a beloved pillar of the Milledgeville community, known for his sense of humor, his habit of giving everyone nicknames, his kind spirit, and his words of wisdom.

He was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan and found joy in life’s simple moments, especially being surrounded by family, friends, and his cherished grandchildren. He especially loved the excitement and warmth of the Christmas season spent with them.

He entered into eternal rest on April 13, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife, family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Mary “Janice” Anderson and Cynthia Jackson.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, joy, laughter, and a life well-lived alongside those he cherished most. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Barbara Jean Jackson; one son, Deigo Sanford; three daughters, Shemeka Harris (Cedeki), Shani Jackson, and April Jackson; two brothers, Albert Jackson, Jr. and James Jackson, Sr. (Joyce); four sisters, Sheryl Jackson Foster, Delois Jackson Warren, Carla Jackson, and Tara Jackson Bethea; two sisters-in-law, Evelyn Lindsey and Bessie Lewis; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family also acknowledges three special friends: Mr. Lester Simmons, Mr. Benny Young, and Mr. Jessie Washington, Sr.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.”
— Matthew 25:23