Richard W Jackson

Richard “Rich” William Jackson, age 55, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on April 7, 2026. He was born on October 5, 1970 in Jackson, Michigan, to Roger and Sharon Jackson. Rich was the loving father of Samantha (Alex) Seto and Sydney (Amanda Kesson) Jackson. He attended Western High School and obtained an associate’s degree from Grand Rapids Community College. Rich worked at General Dynamics for a number of years while also running his own businesses.

Rich enjoyed being outdoors, living an active and adventurous life, with hobbies that included camping, hiking, kayaking, hunting, fishing, home improvement and renovation projects, automotive repair, and was an automotive enthusiast. He also found great joy in music, spending several earlier years as a DJ. Rich is survived by his father, Roger (Christine) Jackson, mother, Sharon Leffingwell, and mother of his daughters, Susan Jackson. He was a cherished brother to Sara (Randy) Yentsch, Shelley (Michael) Ancheta, and Beau Taylor. He was an uncle to Justine, Alex, Henry, Eva, Nathan, Nick, and Max. He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Ronald “Ron” Leffingwell. Most of all, Rich will be remembered for his deep love of his family, sense of humor, and many memories he created with the Jackson and Leffingwell families.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Watson Funeral Chapel - 2590 Spring Arbor Road in Jackson, Michigan. Service will begin at 11:00am with Pastor Justin Nierer, officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Richard’s memory may be directed to the Brain Injury Association of Michigan. He will be remembered as a faithful friend of Bill Wilson.

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