Melvin L. Jackson, Sr.

Melvin Lee Jackson, Sr. “Duke”, 74, transitioned to his heavenly home on Sunday, May 29, 2016 at Sentara Obici Hospital. He was a native of Suffolk, VA and was the son of the late Abraham and Celestine Thompson Jackson. He was predeceased by his siblings Billy, Audrey, Catherine, James, Edward, Mildred, Mary and Ronald. Melvin was educated in the Suffolk Public School System and retired from Planter’s Peanuts. He was an avid Sports enthusiast who followed baseball, basketball and football closely. He spent his younger years playing baseball as a member of the Suffolk Mets, the Ivor Tigers and various other local Teams. He was a faithful member until his health declined. He also played slow pitch softball with First Baptist Church, Mahan Street. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 years, Rachel; a dedicated son, Melvin, Jr.; a daughter, Terry Copeland (Robert); two brothers, Charles E. Jackson (Gloria Jean) and Wilbert Holland; niece/sister, Vivian Bryant (Reginald); four sisters in law and one brother in law; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren; one God daughter, Kesha Liggins, a devoted barber/friend Alvin Copeland; three devoted caregivers - Juanita Fleetwood, Phyllis Holland and Theresa Jackson-Pope, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was a member of the Suffolk Booster’s Club and the SRB Club. A celebration of life will be held 12:00 noon, Thursday, June 2, 2016 at First Baptist Church 112 Mahan Street. He will be laid to rest in Carver Memorial Cemetery. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Melvin L. Jackson, Sr., please visit our flower store.