Civil rights icon, Baptist minister, and two-time presidential candidate Rev. Jesse Jackson has passed away at the age of 84. His family confirmed he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. While the cause of death was not immediately announced, Jackson had been living with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a serious brain disease that impacts mobility, swallowing, and overall health.
“Our father was a servant leader — not just to our family, but to the oppressed and voiceless worldwide,” the Jackson family said. “His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and love uplifted millions. Honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.” Public memorial events are planned in Chicago, with details forthcoming via the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
Born October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson rose to prominence during the civil rights movement, marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr. Over his life, he championed equality, economic opportunity, and social justice. Jackson also ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, inspiring generations with his vision and leadership.
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