Obituary : Samuel E. Jackson Jr.
Samuel Elson Jackson Jr. of Edgartown died on February 9 at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Boston, after a long battle with diabetes and related illnesses. He was 68 years old.
Sam was born to Samuel and Mary Jackson on July 27, 1941, at the Martha's Vineyard Hospital. He is the grandson of Carnegie Medal of Heroism recipient, Levi Jackson, also of Edgartown. Following the family tradition, he depended on the local waters for his livelihood. Sam began shellfishing as a teenager on the flats of Katama and the pond at Cape Poge, before he moved to the offshore waters. The pristine Island waters have been and will always be part of Sam.
As time passed, he began working as a laborer for Frank Fenner and continued in his position for BFI. Sam was the "Chappy guy" for more than 25 years, before retiring in the summer of 2008. At retirement, he rekindled his love for wood carving and the outdoors. He could have been found each winter tromping through the briars and fields with his cousins Joey and Mike Canha while hunting rabbits, and in the spring and summer on their boat each weekend fishing.
Sam married Diane (Sylvia) at the age of 25, and together they raised their family of nine in Edgartown. He instilled in his children from young ages his knowledge of wildlife, a respect for the sea, and pride in the Island. Many of his children are still involved with the Island waters and celebrate the beauty of the Island in many ways. February of this year marks the 43rd anniversary of Sam and Diane's marriage.
Sam is survived by his wife, Diane, all of his nine children: Keith Jackson of Edgartown, Sherry (James) Brown of Falmouth, Leigh, Randy, and Frank Gibson of Edgartown, Dennis and Sheila Jackson of Edgartown, Brenda Kennedy of Hyannis, and Mike (Valerie) Jackson also of Edgartown. His sister Beatrice Lawry of Edgartown, his brother Peter (Susan) Jackson of Edgartown, and many cousins, nieces, and nephews also survive him. Sam leaves behind eight beloved grandchildren: Heather Gibson of Boston, Wendy Gibson of New York, Brian Gibson of Oak Bluffs, William Brown of Falmouth, Leanne Jackson of Memphis, Tenn., Tyler Brown of Falmouth, Andrew Jackson of Edgartown, and Nicole Jackson-Barry of Norwood. His parents, Sam and Mary Jackson of Edgartown, and his two of his younger brothers, Dennis and Wayne Jackson, both of Edgartown predeceased him.
Sam was an amazing man with many talents and a heart of gold. His love for people and his generosity were well known. His genuine character shone through at every moment of his life. He will be missed by much of the Island community, his family and friends.
A memorial service celebrating Sam's life will be held February 20, at the American Legion Hall in Katama, at 11 am. Sam's remains are under the care of Casper Funeral Service of Boston. Questions or well wishes for the family may be left at 508-627-4253, or sent to P.O. Box 31, Edgartown, MA 02539.
