MICHAEL C. JACKSON

Michael Christopher Jackson, 55, passed away Sunday, April 14, 2024, in Akron, OH, surrounded by family and friends during his transition.

On December 27, 1969, Michael was born to George Jackson Sr. and Ernestine English of Akron, OH. He and his brothers were raised by their Grandparents, Jacob, and Marie Jackson. Marie purchased Michael a piano, in which Michael went on to use, to further develop his deep love for music. Michael was self-taught as he could not read sheet music, but he could imitate every note.

Michael was a graduate of Garfield High School, class of 1986, in Akron, OH, where he was named Most Talented. Throughout his life, he lived up to and surpassed that superlative. He was a musical genius. Michael married his first wife, Victoria Jackson and together they used their home to set up a musical studio where he could focus on his projects. From that home studio, his career would soar as a phenomenal keyboardist and musician.

After attending a Jodeci concert at the Akron Civic Theatre, Michael had a cassette tape of his own music and had the opportunity to present it to DeVante of Jodeci. From there, the two kept in touch and the rest is musical history. (Interview of how it came to be, can be found on YouTube).

Later in his career, Michael would become a Musical Director, continuing to travel, teach and share the knowledge and love he had for music. Constantly pulling from his own musical inspirations such as Roger Troutman, Junie Morrison, and George Clinton. Michael referred to himself as a “One Take Man” meaning he would get it right the first time, much like the musicians that inspired him.

Aside from his talent, which exceeds that of which words can express, Michael was a beautiful human being. He was a great artist, had such a playful personality, and such wisdom and passion for the people and the things he truly loved. He was a loving son, proud Father, Grandad, and friend.

Michael is preceded in death by his father George Jackson, Sr., his grandparents, Jacob and Marie Jackson, and Grandson Tristan Brown.

Michael leaves behind his mother, Ernestine English and four brothers, George Jr., Duane, Derrick, and Anthony. His three daughters, Shannon Jackson, Shawntae Jackson, and Destiny (James) Whited, and one son, Mikhail (Telissa Thompson) Pickett.

Michael also leaves behind grandchildren, Makaila, Tiah and Malachi Thompson-Pickett, Ta’Vyn Brown, Sevyn Jackson, and Logan and Lyric Whited.

He once said, “I love how when I play music on the keyboard, I get to watch how the music changes and moves the crowd without putting my hands on them. You can see the happiness on their faces, and in the way they sway back and forth to the music”.

May he continue to move and fill our hearts, and may we continue to sway to the music that he was.

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