PERRY — Jesse James Jackson, age 91, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016, at Heart of Georgia Hospice in Perry. He was born Sept. 9, 1925, to the late Allen and Annie Jackson of Smithville. After serving in the United States Marines during World War II, he returned to Leslie to begin a life-long career in farm management for the Hoover family of Canton, Ohio. He enjoyed animal husbandry, farming, hunting, fishing, and golf after his retirement. Also during his retirement, he found a passion for growing day lilies. He was known to many as the “day lily man.” He created many new varieties, including his special “Mekensie Hays,” which is registered with the National Day Lily Society.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, at Smithville City Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2016, at Greg Hancock Funeral Chapel in Americus.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Clifford Jessup Jackson of Americus; a son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Nancy Jackson of Kathleen; a granddaughter, Mekensie Jackson of Kathleen; and two brothers: Aaron Jackson of Commerce and John Jackson of Leslie.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Jordan Jackson, and a sister, Shirley Williams.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Leslie United Methodist Church, 111 E. Allen St., Leslie GA 31764 or to Heart of Georgia Hospice, 103 Westridge Drive, Warner Robins GA 31088.

You may sign the online guest book and share your own special thoughts and memories by visiting www.greghancockfuneralchapel.com.

Greg Hancock Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.