Rev. Jesse Jackson, Civil Rights Icon, Remembered by Oakland Church

Allen Temple Baptist Church honors Jackson's legacy after his passing at age 84.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland, California paid tribute to the life and legacy of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had preached at the church countless times over the decades whenever he visited the Bay Area. Jackson, who died at age 84, was known for his 'Rainbow Coalition' and historic runs for the presidency in 1984 and 1988, and was remembered as a 'truth teller' who paved the way for future Black leaders like Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement, and his frequent visits and preaching at the Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland underscored his deep connections to the Bay Area and its social justice causes. His passing marks the end of an era, and the church's tribute highlights Jackson's lasting impact on the community.

The details

The Allen Temple Baptist Church held a special service to honor Rev. Jesse Jackson's life and legacy following news of his death at age 84. Jackson had preached at the church countless times over the decades whenever he visited the Bay Area, which he did often. The congregation is now mourning his loss but also celebrating his life and work. 'We've certainly lost history. We've lost a giant. He's lived so much. He's experienced so much,' said Jacqueline A. Thompson, the church's senior pastor.

  • Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away on February 18, 2026 at the age of 84.

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A civil rights leader known for his 'Rainbow Coalition' and historic runs for the presidency in 1984 and 1988. He was a frequent visitor to the Bay Area and preached at the Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland many times over the decades.

Jacqueline A. Thompson

The senior pastor at the Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland, which held a special service to honor Rev. Jesse Jackson's life and legacy.

Willie Brown

The former mayor of San Francisco who served as the national chairman of Rev. Jesse Jackson's second Democratic presidential campaign.

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What they’re saying

“We've certainly lost history. We've lost a giant. He's lived so much. He's experienced so much.”

— Jacqueline A. Thompson, Senior Pastor, Allen Temple Baptist Church (KTVU)

“There probably wouldn't have been a Clinton as President had it not been Jesse. Wouldn't have been an Obama had it not been for Jesse.”

— Willie Brown, Former Mayor of San Francisco (KTVU)

“Jesse didn't think of offending anybody.”

— Willie Brown, Former Mayor of San Francisco (KTVU)

What’s next

The Allen Temple Baptist Church will be honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson during Sunday services, as the community celebrates Black History Month.

The takeaway

Rev. Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy as a civil rights icon and 'truth teller' who paved the way for future Black leaders will live on. The tribute from the Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland, where he frequently preached, underscores Jackson's deep connections to the Bay Area and its social justice causes.