Otis Jackson
Otis “Sonny”, “Mailman” Jackson, Jr., was born on November 11, 1944, to Catherine Battle Jackson and Otis Jackson, Sr. He passed away on Saturday, September 18, 2021, in Chattanooga.
Otis was raised with his mother and dearly beloved sister, Pearline, until a very early age, at which time he was raised by his paternal grandparents, Joe and Kate Jackson. He also grew up with aunts and close cousins in their home. Otis later reunited with his mother and sisters, Pearline and Debra. This turned out to be one of the greatest, most loving events that he was blessed with in his life prior to his mother’s passing.
Otis was a graduate of Morgan County Training School, Hartselle, Al. After graduation he migrated to Chattanooga to live with his beloved aunt ‘Marie.’ He worked several jobs, Nu Mini Car Wash, Loveman’s Clothing store, and several others before moving to San Jose, California. A short time later he joined the US. Navy from March 10,1969-March 8,1973 and received an honorable discharge. Otis was a 100 percent disabled Vietnam veteran at the time of his death.
After leaving the Navy, Otis eventually made his way back to Chattanooga. He achieved a certificate in air condition and refrigeration from Chattanooga State Community College, but later began a career with the US. Postal Service that spanned from 1972 and until he retired on August 31, 2000. This is where he earned the name that most knew him by, “THE MAILMAN.”
Otis also had his own lawn service for many years where he serviced many longtime clients until his health slowed him down.
Otis confessed Christ as an adult and was a proud member of Stoney Point Baptist Church of Soddy Daisy, TN with pastor Edward L. Thrasher. He faithfully served the ministry there until his health failed.
Otis was preceded in death by his parents, Otis Jackson, Sr. and Catherine Battle Jackson; sisters, Pearline McGlathery, Sabrina (Curtis) Hayden, Ruby Jackson, and Debra (James) Love.
He leaves to cherish his memories, wife, Retha Houston Jackson; step-daughters, Dominique (Edward) Harris and Deirdra Wigglesworth Taylor; step-son, Celvin M. Houston; granddaughter/daughter, Chelsea M. Jackson, Nashville, TN;very close grandchildren, Christian, Solomon, Naomi & Eliya Harris, Jaylon and Samantha Houston, Arizona; beloved grandsons, Louis,Jr., Nicholas, and Jordan D’Errico;two special aunts, Merlene Foster and Ann Britt; two special nieces, Sharon (Erskine) Parker and Jane (Robert) Brandon, both of Huntsville, AL; close friends, William Gilmore, Harold Bush, and special friend, Bea Moon; a host of very close and dear family members, and friends, both near and far.
Public viewing will be held from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 29, followed by a 2 p.m. graveside service at Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 423 622-9995.