James Roosevelt Jackson, affectionately known as "JJ", was born on September 9, 1942, to the late Monroe Jackson and the late Nellie Jackson, in Campobello, SC. He was educated in the Spartanburg County schools and attended Carver High School and earned his diploma. James enlisted in the United States Army and served his country for six years.

He was employed for over 40 years as a truck driver at Atlas Van Lines. While there, he earned several safe driving medals and drove over 500,000 miles.

James was an avid bingo player and enjoyed watching country westerns, Judge Judy, Let's Make a Deal, The Price is Right, and soap operas. He really enjoyed R & B and Jazz music and was a Carolina Panthers Fan.

James was preceded in death, along with his parents, by his loving wife, Lillie Bell Nash Jackson; brothers, Monroe Jackson, Jeffrey Hughes, and Master Seargent John E. Jackson; sisters, Annie Wells and Dianne Jackson; and brother-in-law, John Davis.

He leaves a legacy of service and love to his son, Herbert Jackson of Pauline, SC; daughter, Cheryl (Carl) Jackson of Spartanburg, SC; brothers, Robert Lee Jackson and David (Shirley) Jackson both of Spartanburg, SC; sisters, Doris Davis of Pompano Beach, FL and Theresa (Daniel) Jackson Miller of Spartanburg, SC; grandchildren, Justyn (Harmony) Jackson, Joshua Jackson, and Courtney Jackson; great-grandchild, Avery Jackson; special cousin, Rebecca Hughes; friend, Douglas Manigan; care-taker, Liz Fernanders; in-laws, Charoeen Jackson and Robert Wells; and host of other relatives, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and friends.

On the morning of November 19, 2023, James's life of service came to an end. His life and legacy will be forever treasured in the hearts of his family and friends