Obituary of James Frank Jackson
James Frank Jackson, "Jim," of Upper Chichester, PA, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2026, at home surrounded by his loving family.
Born on October 23, 1942, in Mount Holly, New Jersey, Jim was the son of the late James C. and Ida M. "Sykes" Jackson. He graduated from Chichester High School in 1960, receiving the Industrial Award for achieving the highest marks in his class. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from August 17, 1960, to February 7, 1962.
Jim enjoyed a successful 41-year career with the Boeing Vertol Company. Throughout his career, he was recognized for his outstanding work, including an award in 1976 for his performance in the refurbishment of the UTA 001 aircraft and being named Manufacturing Employee of the Year in 1994. He retired with first-class and leadman ratings as a sheet metal assembler.
Jim was also deeply committed to his community. During the 26 years he resided in Marcus Hook, PA, he served on the Planning and Zoning Commissions and as a Borough Council member from 1977 to 1983. He then served as Mayor of Marcus Hook for 10 years, from 1983 to 1993. His honesty, integrity, and dedication to the community resulted in numerous lasting improvements, including the creation of Market Square Memorial Park and the community shade tree program.
Following his retirement, Jim continued to be an active and vibrant member of his community, becoming the "community handyman" to many. He enjoyed gardening, home improvement projects, and, most of all, attending his grandchildren's activities and spending time with his family.
Jim was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Penny Jackson; his children, James F. Jackson, Jr. and Michael S. Jackson; daughters-in-law, Kristin Jackson and Elizabeth Hall Jackson; four grandchildren, Audrey, Eric, Hannah, and Ava; his sister, Lucielle Stevens; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn LaSpada.
Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A viewing will be held on Thursday from 6:00-8:00PM at the Pagano Funeral Home, 3711 Foulk Road, Garnet Valley, PA, and again on Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment, Mt. Hope Cemetery, Aston, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) at dav.org.
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.paganofuneralhome.com.
