Mark Edward Jackson

Mark Edward Jackson, 62, of Rock Island, Illinois, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, cousin, friend, and Child of God, the Most High, departed this life on April 24, 2023, peacefully at home, surrounded by his family. Orr’s Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements. The Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at Second Baptist Church, Rock Island, on Friday, May 5. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island.

Mark was born on October 1, 1960, to William and Josephine (Williams) Jackson in El Paso, Texas. He grew up in Joliet and Rock Island, Illinois. He graduated from Rock Island High School in 1979. He also attended Black Hawk College in Moline, Illinois.

Mark married Renee (Davis) Hill in August 1982, in Rock Island. God blessed them with two wonderful children, Mark Devon and Nacole Diane Jackson. They later divorced, but have remained dear friends.

Mark loved God, his family, and even strangers. He was a member of Second Baptist Church, Rock Island, and part of the Male Chorus, the Brotherhood, the Hospitality Ministry, and the Van Ministry. He was in charge of hanging the special events banners, and helped at the church wherever he was needed. Mark was a faithful member of the Sunday School Class. He was honored with the Black History Month Award in 2017, and for “This is Your Life” in 2019. He had a servant’s heart and always made valuable contributions to the church and the community. Mark would help anyone who was in need. He lived by Jesus’ word, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Mark loved everyone.

Mark was an owner of Quad Cities Community Broadcasting Group, and Executive Director of Marketing and Station Development for WGVV 92.5 FM Radio, Groove 92.5. Prior to working at the radio station, he had a long career at Menards in Moline, IL.

Mark loved spending time with his family and made lasting memories with all his nieces, nephews, and younger cousins. He was “Uncle Mark” to everyone. He loved cooking. He was the family “BBQ Grill Master,” cooking his ribs and fried chicken wings for many family dinners. Mark loved his cars, and was meticulous in keeping them spotless and clean. He had an eye for bargains, and was very thrifty.

Mark fought a good fight and surrendered all, after a long battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease, also known as ALS, which weakens the muscles and impacts physical function. The cause is still unknown and there is no cure.

Those left to cherish Mark’s memory include his son, Mark D. Jackson, and daughter, NaCole D. Idowu (Thompson); Grandchildren: Mark J. Jackson, Anayiah Jackson, Mark (MJ) Jackson, Meena Ryner, Mohammad Paul Idowu, and Samara Jackson. His siblings: brother, William Jackson (Blanche), Rock Island, sisters Hazel Lewis (James), Springfield, IL, Dianna Pendergrass (Bob), Roberta (Bobbie) Stegall, Rock Island, and Pam Tatum, East Moline. Nephews: James Lewis, David Stegall (Sarah), Matthew Lewis, Michael Daniels, Arthur Williams, and Tyler Williams. Nieces: Pam Lewis-Frazier (Robert), Kendall McKennie-Norris, Michelle Daniels, and Brandy Jackson. Special cousins: Anna (Doreen) Jackson, Marcus Jackson, Andre Jackson, and Leenet Bannister. His beloved special someone for over 20 years, Marie Gray. A host of children who called him “Dad,” many great nieces and nephews, many cousins, and many friends.

Mark was proceeded in death by his parents, his brother Paul Jackson, and sister Annetta (Jackie) Daniels, uncles Jessie Jackson, Milton Jackson, and Hershel Jackson, Aunt, Leo Bannister, and cousin Pearlette Bannister.

Memorials may be made to the ALS Foundation.                                                    

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