Pastor Calvin James Jackson
Pastor Calvin James Jackson, a cherished husband, devoted father, dear uncle and beloved friend, peacefully passed away on April 9, 2024, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a profound and lasting legacy of love, compassion, and strength.
Calvin was born on November 9, 1953, at West Point, GA to Leon and Maebell Jackson, where he spent his childhood surrounded by family and friends. He was educated in the Chattanooga Public School System and was a PROUD 1972 graduate of Howard High School.
In his professional career, Calvin was a dedicated employee of Erlanger Health System for 38 years, excelling through his hard work and friendly demeanor. He always had a smile and his laughter often filled the room. His colleagues admired his integrity and leadership, making lasting memories with those he met along the way.
He was a faithful member of Thankful Missionary Baptist Church in Chattanooga, TN under Pastor Oscar Lockhart Sr., for many years. He was ordained as a Deacon in 1995 and then in January 2000, he was called to the ministry and preached his trial sermon. At Thankful he spent many years in service in various roles such as Youth Minister, Sunday School Superintendent as well as President of the Missionary Society; he devoted countless hours to the church and in the community.
He was called to Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, Chattanooga, TN in May 2012 to serve as their Pastor. Where he has continued to serve faithfully until the day he died.
Family was at the center of Calvin’s life. He shared 30 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Betty Carolyn Jackson. He found immense joy in family gatherings, where his laughter and warm spirit brought everyone together. As a steadfast and devoted Pastor, Calvin loved his church family and spent most Sundays in the pulpit doing what he loved most. He was known for his no nonsense, straight talk, no chaser sermons, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him and hearing him speak.
He was proceeding in death by his mother Maebell Jackson, sister Gloria Jackson, brothers Lee Morris Jackson and Lance Williams, and grandson Malaki Ward.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Carolyn; children Towanda (Steven) Marshall, Adrian Jackson, Janson
Davis, Tiara Ward, Marcus Jackson all of Chattanooga, TN, Tori Cammon Nashville, TN and Tiana Jackson Atlanta, GA; and grandchildren Ariel Marshall, Lajeromeny Brown, Tariyah Cammon, Jumir Moore and Princeton Ward; father, Leon (Davilene) Jackson; brothers, Harris (Sandra) Jackson, Nathaniel (Cathy) Jackson and Tyrone (Annette) Jackson, Michael (Tammy) Williams, all of Chattanooga, TN and Leon Williams Rossville, GA, Terry (Tabitha) Williams of Cusseta, AL and Toney Williams of Lanett, AL; Sisters, Mae Rosie Pardlow, Dalton, GA, Vernetta Clay, Ann Jackson both of Chattanooga, TN, Nan Lewis, Kenner, LA, Janice Terry, Grace Moorer, and Inice Jackson all of Chattanooga, TN; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
Uncle Cat, Fox or Jackson, as he was affectionately known, was not only a father to his biological children but also a father figure to many others, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support to those in need. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate the incredible life he lived and the lasting impact he made on each of us. Calvin Jackson will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his unconditional love and the joy he brought to those around him. May he rest in power with the Lord.
A visitation for Calvin will be held Friday, April 19, 2024 from 6-8 p.m. at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services - Franklin Strickland Chapel, 1724 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
A visitation will occur Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 1614 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
A funeral service will occur Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 1614 Bailey Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37404.
A graveside service will occur Saturday, April 20, 2024 at Lakewood Memory Gardens - East, 4621 Shallowford Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37411.
Arrangements are entrusted to Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services Franklin -Strickland Chapel, 1724 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, TN, 37404, 423-265-4414. Please visit our website to share your memories: www.advantagefranklin-strickland.com