Dr. Clarence Jackson

Clarence Odell Jackson, 96, died on Tuesday, February 23, 2016, at home. Hospice Care was provided by Blue Ridge Hospice. He was born May 7, 1919, to the late John R. and Sunnie Sherman Jackson. He was preceded in death by two sisters and four brothers. Also, he was preceded in death by his son, Richard Bernard Jackson and his wife of 73 years, Laura M. Crosson Jackson.

Education included attending and graduating from St. Alban Training and High School; Bettis Academy and Jr. College at Trenton, South Carolina. He received a Bachelor’s Degree from Benedict College and Masters Degree from A & T North Carolina State University, Greensboro, North Carolina. Further studies were done at Lavern College, Truman and Clemson University. He served 41 years of dedicated and committed service to the teaching profession and received the Morris College Doctor of Humane Letters.

He was a faithful member of Reedy Fork Baptist Church, where in 1998, the honor of Deacon’s Chairman Emeritus was bestowed upon him who served as chairman for 45 years; Sunday School Superintendent (1954-1969); Male Choir, Director of Vacation Bible School, Brotherhood and Ushers.

He served as faculty member of the Reedy River Congress of Christian Education, State Congress of Christian Education, and National Baptist Congress.

He also served as Dean of American Baptist College, Greenville Extension Unit and Superintendent’s Forum comprising three Associations in Greenville County.

He served as Vice President and President of the State Ushers Convention. He was an Advisor to the Reedy River Association Brotherhood.

He was a member of Alpha Lambda Sigma Chapter of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

He was a member of Holly Spring Lodge #150 for 74 years. He was also a member of Holly Spring Chapter Order of Eastern Stars #31, Pelzer, South Carolina.

In June 2001, he was given a proclamation by the South Carolina House of Representatives. In January, 2009, he was honored and recognized by the Senate of the State of South Carolina.

He was a father image for many and he had many spiritual sons and daughters. The ideals and moral values by which he lived and the love and sense of service which he expressed so eloquently throughout his life form a lasting record of admiration in the community, county and the state.

He leaves to cherish fond memories two daughters, Laura Etta J.(Ulysses) Sweeney, III and Delores Ann J. (Woodrow) Wilson, both of Marion, South Carolina; six grandchildren, Ulysses S.G.(Anita ) Sweeney, IV of Simpsonville, SC, Lauranette Denise (James) Ford of Mt. Juliet, TN, Clarence Reginald Sweeney of Marion, SC, Craig Anthony (Marla) Sweeney of Piedmont, SC, Minister Marvenise Patrice Spears and Detrick Maurice Wilson, both of Marion, SC; thirteen great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving family members and friends.