Rev. Jesse Jackson's Family Announces Funeral Plans, Reflects on His Legacy

The Jackson family held a press conference in Chicago to share details about the homegoing service and remember the civil rights leader's final moments.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The family of the late Rev. Jesse Jackson held a press conference in Chicago on Wednesday, February 18, one day after his death, to reflect on his life and announce details regarding his homegoing service. His sons Yusef, Jesse Jr., and Jonathan, along with daughters Santita and Ashley Jackson, spoke about their father's dedication to public service, civil rights, and human rights. Jesse Jr. recounted his father's final moments, stating he heard a gasp at approximately 12:35 a.m., which was his father's last breath.

Why it matters

Rev. Jesse Jackson was a towering figure in the civil rights movement and a two-time presidential candidate. His family's press conference and the upcoming homegoing service provide an opportunity to celebrate his legacy and the lasting impact of his life's work.

The details

The Jackson family announced that Rev. Jackson's homegoing service, scheduled for February 28, will be open to people across the political spectrum. Jesse Jr. emphasized that attendees should 'come respectful and come to say thank you,' and that the service is 'welcome to all: Democrat, Republican, liberal, and conservative. Right wing, left wing — because his life is broad enough to cover the full spectrum of what it means to be an American.' This gesture suggests a desire to honor his legacy by fostering unity and respect.

  • Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away on February 17, 2026.
  • The Jackson family held a press conference on February 18, 2026, one day after his death.
  • Rev. Jackson's homegoing service is scheduled for February 28, 2026.

The players

Rev. Jesse Jackson

A civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate who dedicated his life to advancing civil rights and human rights.

Yusef Jackson

One of Rev. Jackson's sons who spoke at the press conference.

Jesse Jackson Jr.

One of Rev. Jackson's sons who spoke at the press conference and recounted his father's final moments.

Santita Jackson

One of Rev. Jackson's daughters who spoke at the press conference and noted her father took 'fatherhood very seriously.'

Ashley Jackson

One of Rev. Jackson's daughters who spoke at the press conference.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must come respectful and come to say thank you. This is welcome to all: Democrat, Republican, liberal, and conservative. Right wing, left wing — because his life is broad enough to cover the full spectrum of what it means to be an American.”

— Jesse Jackson Jr., Son of Rev. Jesse Jackson (newsy-today.com)

“My father took fatherhood very seriously. It was his charge to keep.”

— Santita Jackson, Daughter of Rev. Jesse Jackson (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The Jackson family has announced that Rev. Jesse Jackson's homegoing service will be held on February 28, 2026, and will be open to people across the political spectrum.

The takeaway

Rev. Jesse Jackson's life and legacy as a civil rights leader and presidential candidate will have a lasting impact, as evidenced by the inclusive nature of his upcoming homegoing service and the tributes from leaders across the political spectrum.