Funeral Arrangements Set for Civil Rights Icon Rev. Jesse Jackson

Public visitation, memorial service, and homegoing celebration planned in Chicago

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Officials with the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition have announced funeral arrangements for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, the renowned civil rights leader and former presidential candidate who died at the age of 84. Public visitation, a memorial service, and a homegoing celebration are planned in Chicago beginning on Wednesday, February 25th.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement, continuing the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and advocating for social justice and equality throughout his decades-long career. His passing marks the end of an era, and the funeral arrangements provide an opportunity for the city of Chicago and the nation to honor his legacy.

The details

The public visitation will be held at the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition headquarters in Chicago on Thursday, February 26th from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. A separate memorial service, called the "People's Celebration," will take place at the House of Hope church from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on the same day. The homegoing service, where Jackson will be laid to rest, will be held at the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition headquarters on Friday, February 27th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

  • Public visitation at Rainbow/PUSH Coalition on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • The People's Celebration memorial service at House of Hope on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (doors open at 9:00 AM)
  • Homegoing services at Rainbow/PUSH Coalition on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (doors open at 9:00 AM)

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A renowned civil rights leader, Baptist minister, and former presidential candidate who dedicated his life to advocating for social justice and equality.

Jesse Jackson Jr.

The son of Rev. Jesse Jackson and spokesperson for the family, who announced the funeral arrangements and invited all to attend and honor his father's legacy.

Yusef Jackson

The son of Rev. Jesse Jackson who described his father as a "lion among lions" who was dedicated to public service and making the nation a better place.

Rainbow/PUSH Coalition

The Chicago-based civil rights organization founded by Rev. Jesse Jackson, which is hosting the public visitation and homegoing services.

House of Hope

The Chicago church that will host the "People's Celebration" memorial service for Rev. Jesse Jackson.

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What they’re saying

“Dad would have wanted us to have a great meeting to discuss our differences, to find ways of moving forward and moving together. If his life becomes a turning point in our national political discourse — Amen.”

— Jesse Jackson Jr., Son of Rev. Jesse Jackson (Chicago Tribune)

“Rev. Jackson would say 'it is my religion that makes me political, not my politics that makes me religious.' We, his family, and the many others touched by him, inspired by him, are left obligated to continue his work to make our nation a better place for all.”

— Yusef Jackson, Son of Rev. Jesse Jackson (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Rev. Jesse Jackson's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of fighting for civil rights and social justice will continue to inspire generations to come. The upcoming funeral services in Chicago provide an opportunity for the community to come together and honor his lifelong commitment to making America a more just and equitable society.