Jesse Jackson, Jr. the 3rd born of eight to Bettie Malone Jackson and Jesse Jackson Sr. on September 24, 1944, in Palestine, TX. He accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership Rev. J. C. Huey. He graduated from Lincoln High School, Class of 1962. He enlisted in the United States Air Force on April 16, 1963, and faithfully served until April 15, 1967, receiving an honorable discharge.

While stationed in Miles City, Montana, Jesse met the love of his life, Mary Louise Jackson. They were married on October 14, 1966, in Billings, Montana. Together, they built a loving home and raised three beautiful children: Renee, Tim, and Ronda. Shortly thereafter, Jesse and his family relocated to New Bedford, Massachusetts. While serving in the Air Force Reserve, Jesse received a second honorable discharge in 1971. He went on to earn his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Southern Massachusetts University in 1977. During his college years, Jesse served as President of the Black Student Union and became a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.

Jesse later moved with his family to Dallas, Texas, where he began his career as an insurance agent with Travelers Insurance. He then transitioned to Lockheed Martin, where he worked for 25 years and retired as an accountant. While employed, Jesse furthered his education by earning a Master's Degree in Business from Amber University. After retirement, Jesse and Mary became owners of M&J Services Bookstore, which they operated successfully for more than five years.

He was also a faithful and devoted member of Tabernacle of Praise under the leadership of Dr. Anthony E. Sharp, I. There, he served diligently as Director of the Finance Committee, a Trustee, and a member of the Social Services Ministry. Jesse has always been dedicated to serving the community. Jesse was an activist and marched with Dick Gregory for equality rights. He coached Little League football and helped establish a tutoring program in partnership with In-Unity at Fannie C. Harris Elementary School. Through these collective efforts, the program positively impacted the school's testing scores.

On Thursday, December 18, 2025, Jesse Jackson, Jr. was called home to be with the Lord and loved ones who has preceded him in death; his father, Jesse Jackson, Sr.; mother, Betty Griffin; beautiful wife, Mary L. Jackson; brothers; Othell Jasper Sr., Thomas Larry Jackson Sr., and Jerry Jackson.

Jesse leaves to cherish his memories: (3) children: Renee Jackson, Timothy Jackson, and Ronda Grandberry (Jimmy); (5) grandchildren: Rochillē Fletcher, Chantel Alexander, Emearl Fletcher, Racine Jackson-Lee and Jabari Grandberry; (2) great-grandchildren: Arianna Fletcher and Elliana Fletcher; one brother, David Joe Jackson Sr. (Peggy); (3) sisters: Wanda Langley (Rick), Betty Rae Jackson, and Pastor Marsha Smith along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loved ones and friends.