Willie Jackson

Willie B. Jackson, 75, of Dowagiac, passed away on Sunday April 2, 2017 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. The family will host a memorial gathering at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Dowagiac, on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at 2pm. Arrangements have been entrusted to Clark Chapel and Cremation Services.  Those wishing to send condolences or sign the guest book online may do so at www.clarkch.com. Willie was born on May 10, 1941 to the late Eugene and Geneva (Webb) Jackson in Detroit, MI. On March 26, 1961 he married Oratean Hunt in Detroit, MI.  Willie retired from Bayer Corporation, Elkhart, IN in 2003. Willie is survived by his wife of 56 years, Oratean; children, Danita (Bobby) Hackett, Tony (Ana) Jackson, Kirk (Stephanie) Jackson, Darell Jackson and Cassandra Jackson; three grandchildren; sisters Gladys and Viola; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Eugene, Curtis, Edward, Henry, Johnny, & Jimmy; and sisters Lillie and Catherine. When Willie and his wife, Oratean, first moved away from Detroit, he barbered in the St. Joseph and Benton Harbor areas. In his later years, he frequently encountered past clients.  Willie was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1965 and was an elder for over 45 years.  He enjoyed studying the Bible and aiding others in learning more about it as well.  He had an interest in cars, enjoyed playing horseshoes, and loved fishing.