L.C. Jackson Jr.

Mr. L.C. "Ricky” Jackson, Jr. passed away on February 28, 2025, in Chicago, IL, at the age of 69. L.C. Jackson, Jr. was born in Chicago, IL, on May 21, 1955, to L.C. Sr. and Betty Jackson. L.C., affectionally called “Ricky,” lived a life of loud laughter and fun times with his family and friends. Ricky graduated from Waller High School in 1973 and moved to Buchanan, MI, where he worked for Clark Equipment Company. It didn’t take long for Ricky to realize factory life wasn’t for him, so he enlisted in the United States Air Force that same year. During his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. As the oldest son with maturity beyond his years, Ricky was seen as the man of the house by his younger siblings. He took great pride in looking after them. So when his mother called to report that his brothers and sister were getting out of control, Ricky knew he needed to step in. In late 1974, Ricky left the Air Force with an Honorable Discharge and returned home to Chicago to get things back in line. Once things were settled at home, Ricky enlisted in the United States Navy. While still in Chicago, Ricky met Valerie Williams a few years later. The two married during one of his military leave periods. From that union came two daughters, Calinda and Lynette. After serving in the Navy, Ricky began a career as a computer programmer at Merril Lynch. As time passed, Ricky pursued his entrepreneurial ambitions and opened Jackson’s Grocery Store in Roseland with his brother Lawrence. Ricky remained in Chicago until the early 90s when he moved to Kalamazoo and started the next chapter of his life. Rick, as he was now known, spent most of his adult life in Kalamazoo, MI, where he married Marla Nelson and spent many happy years together. Rick worked at Kalamazoo Metro Transit, starting as a Bus Driver and working his way up to a Manager when he retired after more than 20 years. Rick loved watching TV, particularly old westerns and sci-fi shows; he later became interested in watching Detroit sports teams (mainly so he could heckle Lawrence about Chicago teams). He also enjoyed listening to music, especially smooth jazz and soul. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, L.C. Sr. and Betty, as well as his brother Jarrod. Rick leaves to forever cherish his memory brothers Lawrence (Evelyn), Tony, Labaron, and Andre; sister Darlene; daughters Calinda (James) and Lynette (Jeffrey); honorary children Shari Young and Corey Vines, whom he loved as his own; grandchildren Amia, Skye, August, Pleasant; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Rick’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

L.C. Jackson Jr.

May 21, 1955 - February 28, 2025