Leroy A. Jackson

Leroy Abraham Jackson Jr. was born May 24, 1961 to the late Leroy Welch and Mary Ann Sallet in Gainesville, Florida. Although Leroy was a Gainesville native, he planted roots and made ample connections during his time as a resident in Pensacola and Tallahassee, Florida. He was a graduate of Gainesville High School, but he took pride in being a lifelong learner. He earned a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration on History and Political Science in 1995, and he relished in every opportunity to continue reading and sharing his knowledge. Leroy's calling in life was service to others. A proud veteran of the armed forces, he served for twenty years, retiring with a decorated military career including: a Meritorious Service Award, a Humanitarian Service Award, a National Defense Service Medal, a Good Recruiting Badge, and six Good Conduct Medals. Leroy continued a career path that led him to dedicate his time, energy, and resources to communities that he grew to love and those in need after returning home from the army. He worked in various roles and capacities in the health departments of Alachua County, Escambia County, and Leon County. Moreover, Leroy continued to hold a deep concern for and appreciation for his fellow veterans. His career came to an end at the Veteran Affairs Office, and he entrusted the care of his home in Tallahassee, FL to a dear friend in support of veterans in need. Aptly titled "Dream Manor," Leroy took great pride in knowing that his house was supporting and rekindling dreams. On April 8th, 1994, Leroy embraced fatherhood, relying on ample practice as a dedicated and loving son, brother, and uncle to nurture and provide for a son. He was a man with an eclectic mix of interests and passions: science fiction movies, rock and roll, rhythm and blues, poetry, a plethora of book genres, and capturing the smiling faces of his beloved family as an amateur photographer. On Sunday, July 10, 2022 Leroy gained his wings. He is preceded in death by father, Leroy Welch; mother, Mary Sallet; maternal grandmother, Flossie Sallet, maternal grandfather, Byrd Sallet; paternal grandmother, Emma McNish; paternal grandfather, Abraham Jackson; 4 sisters, Carolyn Jones, Sharon Jackson, Judy Jackson, and Jacquelyn Miller; and 1 special niece, Rachel Miles-Gent. Leroy leaves to cherish his loving memories: son, Raheem Jackson of Hudson, Ohio; raised as his own son, Qurandus Gaines of Gainesville, FL; 5 brothers, Walter Anderson (Olivia) of Gainesville, Fl; Jimmy Jones of Providence, Fl; Wayne Jones (Betty) of Gainesville, FL; Ronnie Jones of Providence, Fl; and Robert Jackson of Utica, New York; 5 sisters, Patricia Kaphers (Jimmy) of Trenton, FL; Linda Bright (Cornelius), Marsha Merricks (Eduardo), and Sivena Jackson-Elleby (Charlie) all of Gainesville, FL; 1 brother-in-law, Charles Miller, Sr. of Gainesville, Fl; 3 special nephews, Ronnie Jones Jr. of Alachua, FL; Dwight Merricks of Atlanta, GA; and Deonte Merricks (Megan) of Reidsville, GA,; and a host of uncles, aunties, nephews, nieces, cousins, and sorrowing friends. Visitation for Mr. Jackson will be one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 16, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Upper Room Church Of God In Christ, 3575 NE 15th Street, Gainesville, FL 32609, Superintendent Karl Anderson and Shepherdess Pearlie Shelton, Pastors, with Elder Ted Welcome, Officiating. Interment will follow immediately in Damascus Cemetery, Alachua, FL Family and friends are asked to meet at the home of his sister, Linda Bright, 2010 NE 8th Avenue (next to Duval Elementary), Gainesville, FL 32641 at 2:15 PM to form the Cortege. Due to COVID-19, all in attendance are asked to please wear a facial covering. Arrangements Entrusted to the Care of Chestnut Funeral Home. Cards may be sent to 18 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. To order floral arrangements, please visit www.chestnutfh.com/obituary/leroyjackson. Any questions may be directed to 855-5-CHESTNUT or admin@chestnutfh.com. "A CHESTNUT SERVICE"

Tributes

Leroy A. Jackson

May 24, 1961 - July 10, 2022