Service Details
Pastor Sam Jackson, 56, was called home by his Heavenly Father on Friday, May 1, 2020. His Homegoing Service will be held in the Reeves Funeral Home, 3308 N. Main St. Hope Mills, NC 28348, 1-910-424-3700 on Saturday, May 9th at 11:00 a.m., with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service; you will be able to watch the service on Facebook starting at 11:00 a.m. There will be a memorial service here in Racine at a later date.
Pastor Sam Jackson , 56, was called home by his Heavenly Father, on Friday, May 1, 2020. He was born in Fort Campbell, KY on November 4, 1963 the son of the late CMS (Retired) Sam and Georgia L. (nee: Smith) Jackson US Army.
Pastor Sam was educated at West Point, Campbell University, Columbia International University, and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. On December 20, 1989 , in Manila, Philippines, he was united in marriage to Maria-Luz Bautista. Pastor Sam was currently the Senior Pastor for Hope Community Church.
Surviving are his beloved wife, Luz Jackson; their four devoted daughters, Sittie “Coco” (Nathan) Williams, of Gilberts, IL, Maris (Stephen) Wallag, of Green Oak Township, MI, Joana Jackson, and Victoria Jackson, both at home; five grandchildren, Jackson, Micah, Phoebe, Luke, and Destiny; 5 foster grandchildren, Alesha, K’Shawn, Toni, Arianna, and Cherish. He is also survived by his loving extended family, his church family and numerous friends. Pastor Sam was preceded in death by his daughter Samantha-Luz Jackson.
Marilyn and Lynell Constantine says
Pastor Sam, your smile that lights up the world, your unconditional and fatherly love to many across the world will be missed
Charlene DeBets says
Pastor Sam not only served God, he served people. Being on the Board of Eastside Community Church gave me an opportunity to see that he was led by the Spirit in all areas of his life, in public, in private, Sam was a man of integrity. I know he has already heard, “Well done my good and faithful servant!”.
Earl Lynch says
My friend, classmate and summer school roomie. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Ron Pietrantoni says
He is greatly missed, but we look forward to seeing him again in Glory!
Karl Wingenbach says
Sam, your energy inspired us all. And, you continue to lift us with your spirit. You are loved and missed!
Karl Wingenbach
Classmate, brother, friend
Erika Greene- Slater says
May you continue to be a light of hope and love in your family and friends. God bless the family, he is now in that beautiful garden awaiting others..love from Hanau family
Brenda Jean Rolfe Schultz says
Prayers
Ernestine P Stewart says
So sorry for your massive loss. Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal. I’m confident in this that I will see him again in his new body.
No more aches, no pain and no more good bye. Just howdy! Howdy!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Stuart Bastin says
Sam, you and Luz joined us and the crew from Company E1 at the reunion. You guys thanked us but really we had more reason to thank you.
Frank and Teresa Pernal Vendrasco. says
Our deepest condolences to Maris Wallag and family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you . Sending our love. I know your Dad is smiling down on you from heaven.
Carl Nank says
One of God’s finest works! West Point class of ’85 will always be proud to call you our own. May God’s live shine on Luz and the puppies!
Linda (Beck) Croke says
May god keep this wonderful man, who had nothing but a huge smile and comfort to everyone he met.
He took time in January to pray for my brother in law suffering from brain cancer, when he himself was going through so much.
As a Hanau Panther I will miss my fellow Panther and his brilliant smile.
Debbie Kirchmeier says
My condolences to all who knew and Loved him.
Harry Schute says
Sincere condolences Luz and family. Sam was simply a great guy. I’m honored to have gotten to know him during our Plebe year together at West Point, where we were both members of the E-4 Eagles. Sam was the definition of STRAC…straight, tough and ready around the clock. A solid leader, a good friend, and a warm smile. Clearly the Almighty had more important plans for Sam at His side. You know how many people Sam touched…and we are all better for that. Again, my deepest sympathies in this difficult time, but do take comfort knowing Sam is with the Lord…
Gloria Paige says
Luz & girls, I am so sorry for your loss. Sam was always so caring, funny, and inspiring. I think my biggest memory from our days in Balut (besides your wedding) was during a coup attempt. It was the one when the rebels managed to take over the Philippines Air Force planes and threatened to attack the presidential palace. Cory Aquino had to call for US planes from Clark Air Base. We all watched from the balcony of “Road Two” house as the US jets made the loop of their circle 8 right in front of us. We were so close the pilot waved to us. Sam was there to detail the type of plane & special functions, etc. Not bragging just informative. The kind of guy you want to have around during a coup, one who knows his stuff. God’s blessings & comfort to you.
Jeanneane Williams says
Praying for all of you and so grateful for the love Sam brought you all.
Murphy and Gilda Shittu says
We all love you 😍 Rest In Peace.
Kim Jewell Stranigan says
Although I know Sam is rejoicing with the Lord, those he left behind are left with a pain in our hearts. I was so hopeful that a donor would be found in time for him. Sam was a remarkable human being, loved and respected by all who knew him. He loved and adored Luz and his girls….. a very proud husband, father and grandfather. I will keep them all lifted for peace and comfort. His love for the Lord was evident in all that he did. Rest In Peace my friend until I see you again.
Susan Shugert Green says
Yesterday I lost a very special friend, Samuel D. Jackson. Sam was my West Point Beast squadmate, and Sam was literally right by my side as we stood in height order for every Beast formation. His boisterous military pop-off voice was kinda scary on R-Day, but soon was motivational, uplifting, reassuring, supportive, and sometimes funny which led to smirking. I’m pretty sure I can hear his voice as I type. Sam was a very special and dear friend. I am so fortunate to have known him for almost 39 years. I don’t think I would have survived Beast without him by my side. Sam’s brilliant guidance, sermons, visionary advice, reflections, and kind words over the years have been so appreciated and treasured. Sam epitomized the character pillars of God, family, friends, duty, honor, country, humility, and selfless service. There will never be another Sam as he was a special one of a kind person. So, glad Sam and his beautiful wife Luz Bautista Jackson joined the class for the 30 year reunion. RIP brother.
Robin Speight Hogan says
A life well done, Sam. You have always been the example of life and love and faith for the rest of us to follow. Be Thou at Peace.
Anonymous says
Rest in Gods loving arms Pastor Sam.
Mary Jane (Murphy) Prater says
I knew Sam in high school. He was a great friend to all who knew him. I was so glad when I was able to reconnect with him through Facebook. He was a blessing to all he came in contact with. His smile was contagious. I know from his posts that his family was very important to him and he was so proud of his girls. So sorry for your loss. I will be praying for your family.
Miki Turk says
Sam shined the Light of Christ wherever he was. I am thankful to have known him! He will be greatly missed.
Kenneth Fitzgerald Wilson says
You are forever etched in my heart Brother Sam, Thank You for who you were !!
Jim Rice says
FEWS, my brother. Your loss leaves a huge hole in ‘the hearts of USMA ‘85 and all who knew and loved you.
See you at Fidler’s Green.
All the Way!
The Sweet Family says
Our deepest sympathies to the Family. Sam you will always and forever be in our thoughts and memories.
George and Michele Sweet
HHS
Steve Wilson says
Pastor Sam Jackson was a man of integrity who loved and served the LORD faithfully to the end. Our loss is heavens gain.
Gail Flancher says
Our dear friend Pastor Sam Jackson. A faithful godly servant who loves the Lord, family, friends, and people. He will be forever missed. I never knew him without big smile. One of my favorite things about his preaching was His passion to see others come to know the Lord. His love for God’s Word is amazing! And, my most favorite is when he would break out in song during his sermons! That always was so enjoyable and always ministered to my heart. From the very first time I met him, I knew I was going to love him, respect him, learn from his teaching, and appreciate his example of a godIy testimony. I still can’t believe he is gone from this Earth. To God be the glory!!!
David Clausen says
I am so sorry to hear of this fine young man’s passing. I first knew him in Hanau, Germany, as he was my junior class president when I was a junior class sponsor. He was also in my honors English class. He was always an outstanding young man in all capacities. He continued in his life the same way. I desperately wanted him to write a book about his family and his life. Unfortunately he passed you soon. The world is sad without him. We have lost a great soul.
Duane O’Laughlin says
RIP Brother Sam. We all miss you deeply.
And when our work is done,
Our course on earth is run,
May it be said, “Well done”
Be thou at peace.”
You did that a much, much more.
Earl and Mary Kelly says
May God cover your days with love and protection we pray for all the family members protection.
Dana Lewis- Richards says
My condolences to The Jackson family. Sam has always been a shining light that touches lives with every passing moment. His smile was contiguous to everyone he came in contact with. His love for his family was felt with every picture and word he wrote.
Our hearts are heavy, you will be missed.
Rest well my Panther brother in the arms of our Heavenly Father.
Alois & Sandra Ortler says
Pastor Sam,
We loved your singing after the sermons you gave. We loved your preaching at our dad’s funeral (Weinbrenner). We loved you and will miss you and your bits of wisdom on FB.
Prayers to the whole family.
Romeo & Maria Angsioco says
A very inspiring life he lived…as a Son, a Soldier, a Pastor, a Husband, a Dad, a Grandfather, a Mentor, an Encourager, a Friend….Pastor Sam, we will miss your radiant smile, but you will always be in our hearts…
Kelley McCullough says
My prayers and thoughts are with the family!
Pat Hurd says
Our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Family. I thank you for your devotionals, but most of all, I thank you for being a friend and just a man of great character. We will see each other again, that I’m sure of.
Paula O’Brien Slaasted says
I remember the first time I met Pastor Sam, he was the Outreach Pastor for Grace Church. I had the pleasure of working with him. He was a kind, and gentle Godly man. You will be missed! ❤️
David Risler says
Sam’s incredible, always-on smile, infectious optimism, and unflappable spirit bear witness to his love for Christ and devotion to His service. He’s greatly missed.
Cheryl Robinson-Hill says
Pastor Sam,
I praise God for your calling! You served with a heart and spirit that was humble, loving, passionate and caring for all people. You will be missed and I an homored to have known you as a fellow Hanau Panther…
Steven Essiembre says
His smile would light up a room. He will be missed. At ease solider….
FRIENDS OF DISTINCTION says
The Many Signatures Tells What Kind Of Man He Was
David D says
A good man taken too early. My condolences for your loss.
Zaldrich Taplac says
I met Pastor Sam only once here in Smokey Mountain Philippines ltwo years ago during operation blessings …. he have so many plans for the community on his next visit … We will take it from here … His soft spoken voice calling me brother is one of the most sincere words I ever heard 🙂 … I life well lived Pastor you will be surely missed.
Sue Nuenke says
Oh the Joy that emanated from this generous, beautiful man. I was in awe of him – his service to Christ, his family and his country. He comforted me in days of darkness and helped the light to brighten. My sorrow to Lutz and family and to the church. Your lives have been enriched by this servant. I know mine is. Blessings to you as he is dancing and singing with the heavenlies!
Ruku Young says
Pastor Sam will be missed.
Thanks for preaching God’s word.
Sheri Kostic says
Since hearing of your passing, I have been trying to figure out my favorite thing about you. There is so many we all could go on for days. But I was always so impressed how he remembered his parents and talked about luz he remembered every date of every celebration he had with them. His daughters he glowed when he talked about them. Your time is done here on earth my brother, you got the best promotion anyone could ask for. You will be missed so that no words can be said. Knowing you went thru the gates of eternal. Life.
Until we meet again God has you in the palm of his hand
Monika Kish says
Your smile was contagious and your heart filled others! You helped me to understand many books in the Bible through your teaching! You will be greatly missed but we will meet again!
Matt and Rita Andis says
May you rest in peace, Pastor Sam. We are honored to have met you, May God grant comfort to all of your family.
Katie Nicholson says
I remember pastor Sam Jackson well at grace community church in Detroit. Such a great person. I wish he had never left ❤️🌹
Karen Straetmans says
Our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Family. You gave your servant heart to so many, and we here at Grace Community Church in Detroit thank you for sharing your Love of God to us. Thank you for being a man of great character.
Tracy Seymour says
I’m happy that Sam is reunited with his mom and dad, but sad for all of us. Sam was kind, generous, wise, and caring and always made you feel like he had all the time in the world to help you. He and his family gave me strength and encouragement by their loving example of caring for Sam’s father as he journeyed down that long and lonely road with Alzheimer’s. Well done, Sam, be thou at peace.
Tracy Seymour classmate says
I’m happy that Sam is reunited with his mom and dad, but sad for all of us. Sam was kind, generous, wise, and caring and always made you feel like he had all the time in the world to help you. He and his family gave me strength and encouragement by their loving example of caring for Sam’s father as he journeyed down that long and lonely road with Alzheimer’s. Well done, Sam, be thou at peace.
Vanessa Roesler says
I wanted to say that I am a better person due to knowing Samuel Jackson. I went to college with him at West Point, but didn’t know him well there. However, we reconnecting at our 30th reunion with him and his wife Lu. It was wonderful! Since then I have listened to some of his sermons and podcasts while staying in contact by Facebook. My husband, Jim, had several phone calls/prayer sessions with Sam. He did so much for me and everyone, always pointing the way to what God would want us to do in our lives. I will miss him.
Mrs. Carol Nelson Miles says
Classmate, you will be missed but not forgotten. Love ya my brother.
Susan Neil says
So sorry for your loss. He will be missed dearly.
Derek Young says
Our devoted shepherd has been called to be with The Lord, and the flock that he saw over, and inspired with his faith, leadership, and Godly words and actions will miss him greatly. He has departed us, but he leaves behind testimonies to his service to God. Hope Church, and all it’s congregation live on as a monument to him, as does his lovely family. Like the old soldier and man of God that he was, he fought his last battle with dignity, grace, and courage that was steeped in his iron-clad faith and his love of life and all God’s people. Sam will be missed, but I know that God has gained a great foot soldier to serve Him in heaven. He has forever impacted the lives of all who knew him, or attended his church. God bless.
Jill Lonergan says
I will miss you Pastor Sam.
You always put your whole heart ♥️ in your sermons & truly worshipped the Lord Jesus Christ & I’m sure many came to know Christ because of it.
While we know that you’re in a much better place with no pain or sadness & praising our Almighty Father God; our earthy sadness will come & go as we all know as Christians that a place is reserved for us & that we will see you one day! Oh what a day that will be when we will all rejoice together & worship Jesus the lamb who was slain for this life is but a blip on the radar of what is to come!
Thank you Jesus for dying to save me for my sins whom without you we can do nothing;& thank you for Pastor Sam who accepted to used by you to share your precious gift 🎁 our salvation in Jesus Christ that perfect free gift that we cannot earn only by the grace of Jesus. 🙏 Amen
Well done my good & faithful servant. Welcome home 🏡
Pastor Sam!!!
To Luz & family
I know that you’re feeling great sorry for this special man who was a Pastor, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle & so much more. My heart ♥️ goes out to you all . Please trust & know that God will be with you all the rest of the way. I’m praying 🙏 for you all. Much love ❤️ & hope in Jesus Christ our Lord -Amen
Jill Lonergan says
I will miss you Pastor Sam.
You always put your whole heart ♥️ in your sermons & truly worshipped the Lord Jesus Christ & I’m sure many came to know Christ because of it.
While we know that you’re in a much better place with no pain or sadness & praising our Almighty Father God; our earthy sadness will come & go as we all know as Christians that a place is reserved for us & that we will see you one day! Oh what a day that will be when we will all rejoice together & worship Jesus the lamb who was slain for this life is but a blip on the radar of what is to come!
Thank you Jesus for dying to save me for my sins whom without you we can do nothing;& thank you for Pastor Sam who accepted to used by you to share your precious gift 🎁 our salvation in Jesus Christ that perfect free gift that we cannot earn only by the grace of Jesus. 🙏 Amen
Well done my good & faithful servant. Welcome home 🏡
Pastor Sam!!!
To Luz & family
I know that you’re feeling great sorrow for this special man who was a Pastor, a husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle & so much more. My heart ♥️ goes out to you all . Please trust & know that God will be with you all the rest of the way. I’m praying 🙏 for you all. Much love ❤️ & hope in Jesus Christ our Lord -Amen
Mark Dederich says
Thank You Pastor Sam for delivering GODS Light and GODS Word to so many. I Thank the Lord for Meeting you and Knowing you from Grace Baptist Church, years ago. What a wonderful person you were. My prayers are with You and Your Family.
Retired 1Sg. & Mrs. John W. Jones - God Sister Kristina and John Jr. says
We’re asking God to hold you closer. We lost a warrior , Sam will be missed.
Frank Hall says
Luz, it was an honor and privilege to be able to be present for Sam and family at the celebration of his life’. He will be missed but never forgotten.
Randy Schwallie says
You are missed, my friend. You lived a great and meaningful life!
Van & MaryJo Wanggaard says
Sam was a wonderful man with a contagious smile. Blessings . Sam will be missed by many!
Toni and John Gibson says
Thank you Sam for your service to us and to Grace Community Church. Luz, please accept our condolences to you and your family, from Toni and John Gibson. We will miss Sam, too. Know that we love you and are praying for you.
Kenny and Che Lang says
Pastor Sam we should have told you sooner how much we loved you and how much of an impact you had on our lives. Love and prayers to Luz and family.
David Tyler says
Rest In Peace you gentle soul of a brother. I will truly miss you man. You were love and was love.
Christopher Lang says
My view is that’s Sam was a totally unique and dedicated Christ follower, Leader, communicator, father, husband and friend.
He is missed.
Mark Wiltse, USMA '83 says
Cadet Jackson was a plebe in my company at West Point, and no more motivated Cadet ever graced the halls of the United States Military Academy. You could hear him coming all the way down the hall as he greeted each upper classman with a thunderous, “GOOD MORNING SIR!” as he spend to his destination in a military manner. He was voted best cadet in the entire institution for his Plebe-Parent weekend, and served as First Captain of 1985 for that event. We became solid friends through the sunday school program, and later in life as my spiritual mentor and confidant.
When Maris notified me of his “graduation” to heaven, I was so angry. He had just qualified for his new kidneys after a long struggle. Two years later, his death remains the largest challenge to my faith, requiring me to just trust the Lord that He knows best.
Love, love, love. What a testimony to God’s unquenchable spirit! See you soon Sam!