RIP Jesse Jackson - Death of the Famous Civil Rights Leader and Baptist Minister who Met with Pope John Paul II

Remembering Jesse Jackson: The Torchbearer of Civil Rights

Jesse Louis Jackson (born Burns; October 8, 1941 – February 17, 2026) was an American civil rights activist, politician, and ordained Baptist minister. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson began his activism in the 1960s. He met with Pope John Paul II on three separate occasions in the 1980s and the 1990s.

Jackson married Jacqueline Lavinia Brown (born 1944) on December 31, 1962, and together, in their 64 years of marriage, they had five children, including Santita (1963), Jesse Jr. (1965), Yusef, Jacqueline, and Jonathan Luther (1966).  Jackson had a sixth child with Karin Stanford, daughter Ashley, in May 1999.

Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, the towering civil rights icon and two-time presidential contender, has passed away in Chicago, on Feb. 17, 2026, at the age of 84. As the man often regarded as Martin Luther King Jr.’s political and moral successor, Jackson leaves behind a half-century legacy of relentless advocacy for the marginalized.

"Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Jackson took several high-profile international trips, such as visiting Palestine to advocate for Palestinian statehood, South Africa to encourage desegregation, and Vatican City to ask Pope John Paul II to appeal to then President Ronald Reagan about refugees."

A Witness to History, a Leader for Change

Jackson’s journey was inextricably linked to the heart of the movement. He was at the side of Dr. King during his final days in Memphis in 1968, a moment that forged his lifelong commitment to justice.

Through the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, he transitioned the struggle from the streets to the ballot box and the boardroom. His work focused on:

• Voting Rights: Expanding democratic participation for all.

• Economic Equity: Demanding corporate accountability and fair hiring practices.

• Social Access: Fighting for universal healthcare and education.

"Keep Hope Alive"

A charismatic Baptist preacher, Jackson was known for his ability to galvanize the masses. His famous mantra, "Keep Hope Alive," resonated deeply with minorities across the nation. Even as Parkinson’s disease and other neurological challenges took a toll on his health, his spirit remained undimmed; he continued to support the Black Lives Matter movement, proving his activism was as enduring as it was impactful.

Beyond U.S. borders, Jackson was a seasoned diplomat. He successfully negotiated the release of hostages in the Middle East and the Balkans, efforts that earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000.

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Paving the Way for the Future

Jackson’s presidential runs in 1984 and 1988 were more than just campaigns—they were "bridge-building" exercises that fundamentally shifted the American political landscape. By proving a Black candidate could mobilize a diverse "Rainbow Coalition," he laid the groundwork for the eventual election of Barack Obama.

"We shared our father with the world," his family stated, honoring a man who spent his final months communicating through touch when his voice finally failed him.

With his passing, America loses a defiant voice for the "invisible" and one of the last living links to the heroic era of the civil rights movement.

Catholic Leaders Offered their Condolences and Praise:

Bishop Robert Barron wrote on X: "A few years ago, I shared a dinner with a number of US representatives, and among them was Jesse Jackson, Jr. When I shook his hand, I said, "tell your Dad I'm praying for him." Though we differed on a number of issues, I always admired Jesse Jackson, who died today at 84. A top lieutenant of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jackson consistently advocated for the transformative power of non-violence. At a time when our social interaction is marked by terrible violence, this continues to be a welcome message. Moreover, throughout his long public career, Jackson called for the empowerment of young black men through education and the assuming of moral responsibility. He knew that government programs were never sufficient for the lifting up of the black community; what was especially needed was the shaping of character. He was also one of the very best public speakers on the scene when I was coming of age. I particularly recall an episode of “Firing Line” which featured a debate between William F. Buckley and Jesse Jackson: very different styles indeed, but both a delight to listen to. So on the day of his death, I will, once again, pray for Jesse Jackson."

Jesuit Father James Martin wrote: Rest in peace Rev. Jesse Jackson, who stood for justice. May you be united with Jesus Christ forever.

Image : Catholic Star Herald Facebook

Sources: https://www.vaticannews.va/it/mondo/news/2026-02/usa-jackson-diritti-civili-afroamericani-king.html

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