Earl Dean Jackson Sr.

September 18, 1938 - September 8, 2019

Earl Dean Jackson Sr. was born in Brusly, Louisiana,on September 18, 1938, to Ferman and Evanna Jackson. He was the third of ten children born to this union. After graduating from Cohn High School in May 1956, Earl took notice of an attractive young neighbor named Lois Ann Ellis living on the other side of the fence. Their relationship began to develop while they corresponded by letter after Earl joined the military in November 1961. Years later, they were joined in marriage on June 6, 1964. The following year Earl and Lois relocated from Louisiana to Chicago, Illinois. Earl then began to work for Republic Steel which allowed him to provide for his family. In the spring of 1969, they began growing their family beginning with Eliska, followed by Earl Dean Jr., Brandon, Anthony, and Leah. Earl began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses. In 1979, he dedicated his life to Jehovah at a convention in Notre Dame, Indiana. As one Jehovah’s Witnesses, Earl faithfully preached about the Kingdom hope, enjoyed helping people to strengthen their relationship with Jehovah with a special interest for the elderly, and along the way he gained many spiritual brothers and sisters. He also served the Calumet City Congregation as an elder for over 18 years. Earl wanted nothing more than for his children to serve Jehovah faithfully. He had the blessing of seeing all his children dedicate their lives to Jehovah. When Earl wasn’t wearing red and black in support of the Chicago Bulls, you could find him cheering for his favorite football team, the Chicago Bears. He often opened his home to his friends for good food, conversation and playing his favorite game – bid whist. Wherever there was water Earl would cast his line. You could find him fishing with his family from early morning until well after dusk. After 33 years of-service at Republic Steel, Earl enjoyed his retirement serving Jehovah along with his family. He truly believed his family was his legacy. Earl is survived by his beloved wife, Lois; his children Eliska “Toni” Standberry (Paul), Earl Dean Jr. (Stacee), Brandon (Elisa), Anthony, and Leah “Lenny”; grandchildren Nina, Evan, Tatiana, and Daniel; siblings Kenneth (Rose), Connie Davis and Ronald (Laurie); his nephew Elliot Allen, other nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his siblings Ferman Jr., Ola Mae, Alton, Delores, Sherman, and Evanna Marie.