Dear Friends, Supporters, and Extended Family,

On behalf of our entire family, we extend our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming love, honor, and support you have shown during this sacred time of remembrance for Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

We are profoundly moved by the thousands who stood patiently in line to pay their respects as he lay in state at Rainbow PUSH Headquarters, and by the extraordinary welcome extended to our family in South Carolina, where he was honored at the State Capitol. Your presence at his Celebration of Life service at House of Hope, along with your prayers, messages of encouragement, visits, meals, and generous contributions to PUSH, have carried us through these difficult days.

We have also been deeply touched by the countless tributes shared across communities and social media—stories, reflections, and expressions of how Rev. Jackson impacted lives around the world. He was, indeed, larger than life, but it is through each of you that his life’s work continues to live and breathe.

Your compassion reminds us that his legacy was never his alone—it belongs to all who believe in justice, equality, and service to others.

As we move forward, we do so with renewed commitment. The work is not finished. Together, we must continue to build on the foundation he so tirelessly laid.

Thank you for standing with us, for honoring him, and for carrying his spirit forward.

With heartfelt appreciation,

The Jackson Family

www.jessejacksonlegacy.com

www.rainbowpush.org

Keep Hope Alive and Continue The Legacy.

For those wishing to contribute, you can make a tax-deductible donation to the Jackson Family Foundation’s Legacy Fund here.

CONTRIBUTE

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Civil Rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. He died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his family. His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity. A tireless change agent, he elevated the voices of the voiceless—from his Presidential campaigns in the 1980s to mobilizing millions to register to vote—leaving an indelible mark on history.

Reverend Jackson is survived by his wife, Jacqueline; their children — Santita, Jesse Jr., Jonathan, Yusef, Jacqueline; daughter Ashley Jackson, and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his mother, Helen Burns Jackson; father, Noah Louis Robinson; and stepfather, Charles Henry Jackson.

"Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” said the Jackson family. “We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”

Public observances will be held in Chicago. Final arrangements for Reverend Jackson's celebration of life services, including all public events, will be shared by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition at www.rainbowpush.org or JesseJacksonLegacy.com.

Jackson Family Statement on the
Passing of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr.

To receive updates on the Celebration of Life services, please share your email address.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Registration is NOT required to attend the Friday House of Hope Public Homegoing. Doors open to the public at 9:00am. An optional RSVP is available for those who wish to receive updates here: jljhomegoing.rsvpify.com

    The full list of services is at jessejacksonlegacy.com/services.

  • Bus Routes: 111A, 115, 4
    Metra: Kensington / 115th Street Station (approximately a 13-minute walk)
    Nearby Bus Stops:
    • 111th Street & Ellis (West) – approximately 8-minute walk
    • Cottage Grove & 115th Street (South) – approximately 12-minute walkon

  • At Rainbow PUSH Coalition:
    Street parking is available nearby along S. Drexel Blvd, 49th St. , E. Hyde Park Blvd. and E. 49th St. 

    At House of Hope:
    House of Hope has a parking lot off of 113th St. 

  • Please enter through Gate 4 at House of Hope, where there is also an ADA entrance.

    Rideshare drop off is also at Gate 4.

  • All guests will pass through Security checks and metal detectors / magnetometers at each venue. Please limit the items you bring to help ensure a smooth process.

    For House of Hope, bags/purses need to be smaller size (e.g. clutch or fanny pack).

    Items that are prohibited: Lighters, Weapons, signage, and any items that could disrupt the service are strictly prohibited.

  • Is the venue accessible for people with mobility needs?

    Both spaces have a wheelchair/mobility-friendly entrance.

    Who should I contact for special accommodations or questions?

    For accessibility needs or other inquiries, please email: info@JesseJacksonLegacy.com.

  • We encourage guests to dress in respectful attire appropriate for a memorial or funeral service.

  • Funeral arrangements are being managed by Leak & Sons Funeral Home.

  • Flowers and personal tributes may be placed at the outdoor memorial area at Rainbow PUSH (930 E. 50th St., Chicago, IL 60615). They are not permitted inside the auditorium or sanctuary.

  • Guests visiting Chicago are encouraged to stay at:

    Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago
    2233 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616
    (312) 567-1234
    Website

    Rooms within the hotel block have been reserved for this event with limited availability on a first-come, first-served basis.