Jesse Jackson Jr. Reflects on Father's Legacy: "He's the Personification of Hope"

Rev. Jesse Jackson's son pays tribute to his father's lifelong advocacy for equality and justice.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Following the passing of civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson at the age of 84, his son Jesse Jackson Jr. spoke about his father's extraordinary career and lasting impact. Jackson Jr. was present during his father's final moments and is now honoring Rev. Jackson's legacy as a tireless advocate for equality, a civil rights leader, and a man with an unwavering belief in justice.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement, known for his activism and political influence. His death marks the end of an era, and his family and community are now reflecting on his immense contributions and the challenge of carrying on his work.

The details

Jesse Jackson Jr. was the only person with his father in his final moments, saying goodbye and then accompanying the body to the funeral home. He emphasized Rev. Jackson's deep roots in the Chicago community, his unwavering commitment to justice, and the pressure of living up to his father's legacy. Jackson Jr.'s sister Santita also shared memories of her dad attending family events, showing a softer side beyond his public persona.

  • Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
  • Jackson Jr. was present during his father's final moments at around 12:35 a.m. on February 17th.

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A civil rights leader and activist who was a tireless advocate for equality and justice throughout his life.

Jesse Jackson Jr.

The son of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who was present during his father's final moments and is now honoring his legacy.

Jacqueline Jackson

The wife of Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose life has been deeply changed by his passing.

Santita Jackson

The daughter of Rev. Jesse Jackson, who shared memories of her father's softer side beyond his public persona.

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What they’re saying

“The realization that my father is a, is a was, and not an is,”

— Jesse Jackson Jr. (CBS News)

“Nothing but a good name, a great name. He's the personification of hope, and the outpouring of people whose lives he's touched has been so broad that it is overwhelming,”

— Jesse Jackson Jr. (CBS News)

“Oh, he would show up at football games for wrestling matches or piano recitals,”

— Santita Jackson, Daughter of Rev. Jesse Jackson (CBS News)

What’s next

Funeral arrangements for Rev. Jesse Jackson have not been announced as of Tuesday, but Jackson Jr. said he expects people all over the city of Chicago to attend and say thank you.

The takeaway

Rev. Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era, but his family and community are committed to carrying on his legacy of tireless advocacy for equality and justice. His son Jesse Jackson Jr. and other family members are now reflecting on his immense impact and the challenge of living up to his towering example.