Richard P. Jackson November 24, 1943 - October 6, 2024
Wednesday, October 09, 2024
Richard Paul Jackson, 80, of Gloucester City, New Jersey, passed away peacefully in his home on October 6, 2024. Born on November 24, 1943, "Rich" dedicated 35 years to the field of education and generations of students in Gloucester City, notably serving as the first Principal of Cold Springs School and District Testing Coordinator. Previously, he was an esteemed educator and Principal for the Gloucester City Neighborhood Schools. Rich proudly served in the United States Army Reserves beginning in 1965, contributing significantly during his tenure. His commitment to service was evident both in his military and educational roles.
He was a graduate of St. Joseph's Grammar School (Camden), Bishop Eustace Preparatory School (Class of 1961), and LaSalle College (Class of 1965). In addition to excelling at academics, especially mathematics, he was the starting First Baseman on the 1961 Group B Sectional Championship Baseball team at Bishop Eustace Prep. Beyond his professional and military life, Rich enjoyed playing sports as a youngster and later teenager. As a teenager and adult, he played on various softball teams, a hobby that allowed him to connect with friends and the community.
Rich's life was marked by his dedication to education, community service, and most of all - his family. There was no better or more devoted family man. He met the love of his life, Alice Reeve, in 1962 while bowling at Ivy Lanes in Pennsauken, NJ. The encounter between Alleys 1 and 2 was only the beginning. The relationship grew throughout the years with the couple attending many sporting events, most notably the 1962 World Series and Army Navy Game, water skiing together, babysitting, continued bowling, and going to movies and shows. The culmination was an engagement, wedding, and the birth of children followed by many years of travel.
The only happiness greater than his children was his grandchildren. If you knew Rich, you definitely were privy to seeing many pictures of the grandchildren and hearing relentless updates of each one’s accomplishments.
He brought a generous dose of humor, overflowing positive energy, and a quick connective wit to every encounter. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his work and the lasting memories he created with his loved ones. To all of his former students in his 35 years as educator and principal in Gloucester City, Mr. Jackson is so proud of you and all that you have accomplished in your lives. Seeing you become successful people made his life complete.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard P. Jackson and Mildred (nee McManamon) Jackson. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Alice (nee Reeve); children, Kim Price and her husband, Mark and Tim Jackson and his wife, Sara;
cherished grandchildren, Natalie Seiner (Patrick), Jackson and Logan Price, and Luke Jackson; two special sisters, Judy and Elaine as well as nieces and nephews especially his loyal nephew, Michael Lind.
We find comfort in knowing that Richard’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.
Relatives, friends, retired and current staff of the Gloucester City School District are invited to Richard’s viewing on Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 4 pm to 6 pm at the McCann – Healey Funeral Home: 851 Monmouth Street, Gloucester City, NJ 08030. Catholic Service 6 pm officiated by Deacon Peter Powell. U.S. Army Military Honors will follow the service. Cremation and Inurnment will be private.
Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.mccannhealey.com under the obituary of Richard Paul Jackson.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Eye Tumor Research Fund: P.O. Box 832, Philadelphia, PA 19105. Please write in memo: Richard Paul Jackson or Samaritan Hospice c/o Samaritan Gift Processing Center: P.O. Box 71425, Philadelphia, PA 19176 – 1425. Please write in memo: Richard Paul Jackson.
Funeral Arrangements and Inquiries through: McCann – Healey Funeral Home: Gloucester City. Ph: 856 – 456 - 1142