Download This Version in Microsoft Word format
TO EXPRESS THE PROFOUND SORROW OF THE MEMBERS OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA SENATE UPON THE DEATH OF MRS. HELEN BURNS JACKSON OF GREENVILLE, AND TO EXTEND THEIR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS.
Whereas, the South Carolina Senate is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Mrs. Helen Burns Jackson on September 7, 2015, at the age of ninety-two; and
Whereas, a long-time resident of Greenville, Mrs. Jackson was a community activist and talented musician whose interests inspired her sons, civil rights icon and two-time presidential candidate Jesse Jackson and Chuck Jackson, an acclaimed singer and songwriter who produced gold and platinum music albums and helped launch the career of famed singer Natalie Cole; and
Whereas, the embodiment of Christian charity, Mrs. Jackson gave up multiple college scholarship offers and a promising music career to answer her most important calling in life, which was being a mother. As a mother, she taught her sons the importance of hard work, education, perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity, and the value of seeking answers to life's challenges through an understanding of Scripture; and
Whereas, although Mrs. Jackson understood the importance of hard work, she did not put financial concerns above concerns for human welfare. A cosmetologist, she would not turn away people facing hard times because she knew the value of human dignity. On many occasions she helped people fill out complicated government paperwork necessary for their well-being; and
Whereas, a woman determined to make a contribution despite living under very trying circumstances, Mrs. Jackson indeed made a great contribution to our state and nation. A woman who could not vote until she was in her forties, Mrs. Jackson held a devotion to community service and human rights that inspired her son, Jesse Jackson, to devote his life to promoting civil rights for all. The remarkable impact of his achievements on the lives of millions of people worldwide bares her mark; and
Whereas, wife of the late Charles Henry Jackson, Mrs. Jackson leaves sons Jesse Jackson and Chuck Jackson, their families, and many friends who cherish her memory; and
Whereas, Mrs. Jackson will be remembered for her role in helping shape the civil rights landscape in this state and nation because of the impact of her son, Jesse Jackson. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the Senate:
That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, express their profound sorrow upon the death of Mrs. Helen Burns Jackson of Greenville, and extend their deepest sympathy to her many family and friends.
Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the family of Mrs. Helen Burns Jackson.
This web page was last updated on January 13, 2016 at 2:49 PM