Rev. Lee Jackson

A Life Well Laughed, Loved, and Lived:

Rev. James LeRoy "Lee" Jackson, 80, passed into the loving arms of his Savior, February 2, 2025 at Alton Memorial Hospital. While his absence leaves a void in our hearts, we celebrate a life overflowing with joy, purpose, and the undeniable presence of God's grace.

Born October 25, 1944 in Granite City, he was the son of Merril and Ruth (Copenhaver) Jackson.

Pastor began his service for God as an evangelist before accepting a position at Wood River United Pentecostal Church, where he remained a faithful leader for 31 years. In addition to his pastoral leadership, he was an instructor at Gateway College in St. Louis, where he mentored many young ministers. Lee was more than an evangelist, preacher, and pastor; he was a storyteller, a comedian, a mighty man of God, and the loving head of his family, all wrapped into one unforgettable soul. His sermons were legendary, not only for their spiritual insights but also for the hearty laughter that echoed through the sanctuary. He had a gift for weaving humor into his messages, making even the most complex theological concepts accessible and engaging. He believed that laughter, like faith, was a gift to be shared generously. Above all else, Lee was a devoted family man. He cherished his wife, Georgia, whom he married on August 5, 1961 in St. Louis, his girls, sons-in-law, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was a constant source of support, guidance, and endless laughter for his family. Their home was a haven of warmth and joy, filled with the sounds of love and family, and the smell of fresh flowers that he frequently brought to Georgia.

Surviving in addition to his wife are his four daughters, Carolyn (Brian) Traband, Sharon (Dan) Stanfield, Kelly (Scott) Grissom, Jennifer (Jason) Grant; eight grandchildren, Zsanelle (David) Bailey, Janae (Drew) Cashen, Tennille Stanfield, Nick (Alexis) Grant, Nolan (Faith) Grant, Andrew Grant, Madison Traband, Alex Grissom; and two great grandchildren, Nash and Beck Grant.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Gene Jackson, Wayne Jackson; and a sister, Pat Mason. Lee's life has been a testament to the power of faith, and the enduring strength of family.

He allowed the love of God to shine through his life and many people have had their lives transformed by the power of God working through him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Visitation will be from 4-7 pm, Friday, February 7 at Gracepoint Church of Granite City, 2450 Pontoon Rd, Granite City, IL, where services will be conducted at 10 am, Saturday. Pastors Randy Pate and Terry Munn will officiate.

Burial will follow in Sunset Hills Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.

Memorials are suggested to Wood River United Pentecostal Church.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. Lee Jackson, please visit our floral store.