Paul L Jackson Jr.

On Sunday, March 3, 2024, Paul Lawrence Jackson, Jr., exchanged his life here on earth for an eternal one. He transitioned, in the early morning, peacefully at home in District Heights, Maryland.

Paul was born on March 23, 1954, in Washington, DC to the late Paul “Stonewall” Lawrence Jackson, Sr. and Margaret Lennetha Winston (née Alston).

Affectionately known as Big Paul or PJ, Paul graduated from Anacostia High School in Washington, DC (1972). Afterward, as a true DC native, he studied drafting at Washington Technical Institute (WTI). Upon completing his studies at WTI, he worked in various career fields until he entered the federal civil service in 1979, at the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC), located in S.W. DC. He oversaw procurement, logistics, and supply chain management until 1997 at USITC. Following his tenure at USITC, Paul entered the retail arts industry where he worked for two years as a docent for Arena Stage. Paul also worked with Paxton VanLines (1999 - 2012) as a Commercial Relocation Specialist and used his seniority status to open the doors for many young men and women searching for employment. Paul’s last act before full retirement was with Blake Real Estate, Inc. as a Building Maintenance Specialist (2009 - 2015).

As an avid fan of local sports, Paul fervently supported the Washington Wizards (formerly Bullets) and the Washington Commanders (formerly Redskins) before later becoming a New York Giants fan. He loved to participate in the weekly sports pools with his friends and coworkers and won big a few times [Smile]. His spirited rivalry with his late aunt, Marion Davis, reached legendary heights, fueled by wagers of their favorite ice cream, Butter Pecan.

Paul enjoyed cooking just as much as he enjoyed eating and sharing recipes with his children and grandchildren. He assumed the esteemed role of ultimate judge during family cook-offs, where his kids and grandkids competed for the coveted "Papa Approved World Famous…" title. Paul's kitchen wasn't just a space for cooking; it was a haven with an open-door policy. Neighborhood kids would frequently gather for a taste of "Mr. J's Delights," craving his homemade cakes, greens, and the renowned "icebox stew."

Watching movies— no matter the rotten tomato score, was one of his favorite pastimes. He was known in the family for making a nice pot of tea and homemade popcorn to accompany his movies. Having a competitive advantage with his six foot two stature, Paul enjoyed boxing, playing basketball, cycling, swimming, visiting the beach, and traveling later in life. Paul's favorite trip was to Paris and Cognac, France, with his daughters, Nicole and Monica in 2015, where he had the opportunity to experience international travel, new sights, exclusive libations, and cuisine prepared by one of his favorite chefs.

Paul took pleasure in capturing moments of life by taking photos, so much that his grandkids nicknamed him “Kodak”, as it was rare to see him without a camera at family gatherings and special occasions. Paul liked to say that he enjoyed dancing with his two left feet and had the best two-step in DC. Paul enjoyed listening to all genres of music and loved sharing his love of music with his family through his impressive vinyl collection and support of public radio, specifically WPFW’s Bill Wax “Roots and Fruits” segment.

Paul lived a full and active life until 2015 when he was formally diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. In 2019, his symptoms began to progress rapidly. His children became his full-time caregivers at the end of 2019. Despite the challenges posed by the relentless progression of Parkinson's Disease, Paul faced each day with remarkable resilience and an unwavering spirit.

Throughout his life, Paul was not only known for having an outgoing personality but was also patient, generous, funny, kind, fair-minded, laidback, and honorable. Paul engaged with life, maintaining his sense of humor and positive outlook. His personality led him to nurture many great relationships over the years.

Paul and his childhood friends remained friends throughout his adult life - Antione & Vivian Hart, Sr., Eric Pitts, and Edward & Karen Mooring. He often told his children that he thought of them as siblings. Paul shared a motherly bond with Connie Hart, relying on her for additional guidance in life. Paul cultivated warm and friendly connections with his former sisters-in-law, who became the sisters he had always longed for: Beverly Baylor, Leonadra Anderson, Padget Baylor, and the late Toni Anderson. Paul shared his life with a devoted long-term partner, Rositta Hickman. Together, Paul and Rosita united their families, embracing a blended household that included children from their respective previous unions. Paul cherished this extended family, affectionately known as his Bonus Family, which comprised Bonus Children: Kerishia Williams, Latasha Garner, and Robert Hickman III (Rhonda), along with Bonus Grandchildren: Jada Garner, Jordyn Garner, Kairi Thomas, Sade Williams, Tavaughn Hickman, and Giovanni Bilal.

Rooted in the Christian faith, Paul's baptism in the Baptist Church marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment. He became a valued member of the AME Church, contributing his voice to the Men's Choir at both Ebenezer AME Church and Hemingway Memorial AME Church. Despite physical limitations from 2020 to 2024, Paul's commitment to faith endured through remote church and Bible study, affirming his role as a faithful servant of God until his final earthly breath.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Lawrence Jackson, Sr., and Margaret Lyennetha Winston (née Alston). From his union with Donna E. Jackson, he leaves to carry on his name and legacy three children: Nicole, Alonzo, and Monica. His grandchildren: Aaron, Brianna, and Zoe. Additionally, he leaves behind a brother, Daryl Johnson (Sherry), a niece, Nichell Dunn, and cousins: Erik Alston, Donna Alston, Nora McDuffie (James), Allen Reddish, Jr., Larry Allen, and Anne Bryson. Paul leaves behind a host of other relatives and friends to relish in his memories and celebrate his life.

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Electronic Funeral Service Program - https://tinyurl.com/pauljack

Funeral Service Recording - https://youtube.com/live/Kvo-agQ8RwE?feature=share

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The family of Paul L. Jackson, Jr. has decided to honor his memory by establishing the Jackson-Alston Parkinson's Foundation, a foundation dedicated to supporting caregivers and addressing their unique needs. For more information visit, https://gofund.me/9aa3d06a

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