Reverend McCalter "Pookie" Jackson Jr.

Obituary For Reverend McCalter "Pookie" Jackson Jr.

Reverend McCalter Jackson Jr., age 80, a resident of Warren, Ohio, peacefully departed this life on March 9, 2026, at Carrington Park Nursing home in Ashtabula, Ohio. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on April 20, 1945, the eldest child of Mary Alice Jackson Grace and McCalter Jackson Sr.

McCalter was an active member of Gethsemane Baptist Church throughout his life. As an adult, he became a licensed and ordained minister. He was a member of First Calvary Baptist Church, under the direction of Rev. Dr. Luther J. Shipman, where he assisted with preaching, was the organist, and led songs with the choir. Most importantly, he studied the Bible diligently to show himself approved as a workman. He always had a scripture of encouragement and support ready to share.

Affectionately known as Pookie, he often engaged in foot races with his brothers, usually winning. Pookie also boxed with the Golden Gloves, where he earned more than twenty-eight victories. As a student at Chaney High School, he distinguished himself as an exceptional track and field athlete, establishing a record in the mile and the half - mile race. McCalter was also a member of the marching band, mastering the tuba.

After graduating from Chaney High School, he further his education, obtaining an associate degree in business from ITT Technical Institute. Rev. Jackson’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to service. A proud veteran, he demonstrated valor and dedication in his duties, reflecting the principles of integrity and honor that he carried throughout his life.

McCalter was a veteran of the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division and served in the Vietnam War. He enlisted on December 2, 1968, and was discharged from active duty on July 23, 1970. He received numerous awards, citations and medals which included National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service medal, Vietnam campaign medal, Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge. His professional journey included the United States Steel Company, General Motors and later, the United States Government until retirement.

Music played an important role in his life; his favorites included James Cleveland’s gospel music, Any Day Now by Chuck Jackson, and other R&B hits. Never having professional lessons, he possessed a natural gift in reading music, playing instruments, and singing, but the organ was his favorite instrument.

During his teen years, he, along with his brother Bernard and their neighborhood friends, established a singing group for which he played the piano. Playing the piano/organ and leading songs in several bands, he was known as Fingers Jackson. Later in life, he received piano lessons from Everett McCollum to enhance his musical skills and talents.

Pookie passionately supported all sports Cleveland- Browns, Cavaliers, and Indians/Guardians. He cherished the entire family, but especially his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed demonstrating karate moves to his children. Family gatherings were special to him, particularly barbecues and cookouts. During the Christmas season, he enjoyed caroling with his family. Pookie loved grabbing people's and babies' cheeks, kissing them.

His favorite car was a Cadillac and had a perchance for Pepsi and Kentucky Fried Chicken. His heart was filled with the love of God, always going out of his way to help others in need, selflessly.

McCalter leaves behind a legacy of love that is embraced by his wife Stephanie Moss-Jackson, children Lance Anthony Bankhead, Norfolk, Virginia; McCalter Jackson III (Jennifer), of Copperas Cove, Texas; Michael Jackson, Elyria, Ohio; Angela Perry, Youngstown, Ohio; Marlon Jackson (Aundrea), Steubenville, Ohio.

Precious memories are also retained by his brother, Bernard Jackson (Denise); and sisters Lovie Brown, Brenda Kimble (Malcolm), all of Youngstown; a stepson, John Scruggs, Columbus, Ohio, his former wife Judy Jackson Claiborne, with whom he remained friends. He was blessed with seventeen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished dearly.

As Rev. McCalter crossed the celestial sands of time into eternity, he was reunited with his parents; daughter, Nichole “Bunny” Gilmore; brother, Ivan Jackson, and grandchildren, Marksssah and Markeeon Perry, all who preceded him in death.

As we gather to remember Rev. McCalter Jackson Jr., let us cherish the remarkable moments shared, the wisdom imparted, and the love that will forever echo through our lives. In our grief, let us also rejoice in the profound impact he made, illuminating the path for those fortunate enough to know him.

Family and friends will gather at 9:00 AM for a public viewing on Friday, March 27, 2026, in the chapel of the J E Washington Funeral Home, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 10:00 AM with Rev. Lewis W. Macklin II as the celebrant. Following the committal ceremony, Rev. McCalter will be laid to rest with military honors at the Ohio western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, OH. May he rest in eternal peace.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of the Reverend McCalter “Pookie” Jackson Jr. elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.

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