Samuel J.R. Jackson

Samuel J. R. Jackson (Sam) went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, July 19, 2026. He was born in North Little Rock, AR on November 4,1936 to Mosell (nee Bennett) and Curtis Jackson.

 Sam graduated with honors from Scipio Jones High School in North Little Rock, AR. Upon graduation he enlisted in the Army and was part of the very fi rst U.S Army Chorus. Founded in 1956, this choral group traveled nationwide as the offi cial counterpart to the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own” based in Washington D.C. 

Upon leaving the Army, Sam began his undergraduate studies at Adams State University in Alamosa, CO before moving on to receive a Masters degree in Social Welfare from UCLA. After marrying Phyllis in 1966, they moved to Pueblo CO where Sam began his over 45+ year tenure with the State of Colorado as a Social Worker and then as a Clinical Administrator. Sam and Phyllis raised three children in Pueblo and moved to Overland Park, KS in 2013.

 Sam will be remembered for his sharp wit, wisdom and willingness to listen. He loved deep studies into bible scripture and history. Sam was a master of the BBQ grill (a skill that he passed on to his son, Michael). He was also an avid fi sherman (a trait that he passed down to his son, grandson and great grandson) and loved playing cards, specifi cally Pinochle and later on Bridge.

Sam is preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis, both parents and brothers Jonathan (Joe) and Charles. He is survived by his three children Carolyn (Jesse) Salmon, Cynthia Jackson and Michael (Gina) Jackson; grandchildren Chanille (Peter) Witham, Jesse Salmon III, Micheal Salmon, Andre and Olivia Jackson, along with great-grandchildren Aidan Salmon, Ignatius Witham, Eva Witham and Felix Salmon. He is also survived by brother-in-law Larry (Mattie) Thompson as well as many well-loved nieces, nephews, cousins and great nieces/nephews.