88-Year-Old Organist Keeps Ashland Church Sanctuary Filled with Music

Max Jackson has been playing the pipe organ at Wildwood Baptist Church for over 70 years.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:07pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of the warm, glowing interior of a church sanctuary, with the silhouette of a pipe organ visible through the hazy, out-of-focus scene, conveying a sense of reverence and nostalgia.The soulful sounds of a pipe organ have filled the sanctuary of Wildwood Baptist Church for over 70 years, thanks to the lifelong dedication of 88-year-old organist Max Jackson.Ashland Today

Max Jackson, an 88-year-old organist, has been filling the sanctuary of Wildwood Baptist Church in Ashland, Kentucky with music for over 70 years. Jackson first fell in love with the pipe organ as a young man before leaving for college in the 1950s, and he has dedicated his life to playing at the church ever since.

Why it matters

Jackson's lifelong commitment to the Wildwood Baptist Church and its pipe organ represents a rare example of generational continuity and community service in an era of rapid change. His dedication to the instrument and the church has provided a sense of stability and tradition for the congregation over the decades.

The details

Before leaving Ashland for college in the 1950s, Jackson heeded advice from an organist at Wildwood Baptist Church to pursue his passion for the pipe organ. Jackson returned to Ashland after college and has been the church's organist ever since, playing for services, weddings, funerals, and other events for over 70 years.

  • Jackson first fell in love with the pipe organ before leaving for college in the 1950s.
  • Jackson returned to Ashland after college and has been the organist at Wildwood Baptist Church for over 70 years.

The players

Max Jackson

An 88-year-old organist who has been playing the pipe organ at Wildwood Baptist Church in Ashland, Kentucky for over 70 years.

Wildwood Baptist Church

A church in Ashland, Kentucky where Max Jackson has served as the organist for over 70 years.

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The takeaway

Max Jackson's lifelong dedication to the pipe organ and Wildwood Baptist Church represents a remarkable example of community service and the preservation of musical traditions in a small town. His story underscores the enduring power of passion and commitment, even in an era of rapid change.