July 28, 1946 — March 31, 2025
Mr. Melvin Lee Jackson, age 78 of Sugar Valley, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, March 31st, 2025, at Advent Health Redmond.
Mr. Jackson was born in Floyd County on July 28, 1946, to the late Vernon Jackson and Callie Chapman Jackson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian Sue Hightower Jackson, his daughter, Cindy Defoor; grandson, David Lee Jackson; and granddaughter, Brittany Lynn Tatum. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Mr. Jackson honorably served his country during the Vietnam War, where he earned three Purple Hearts. Following his military service, he built a career as a truck driver for Southeastern Freight Company until his retirement. After his retirement, Mr. Jackson found joy in his workshop, where he spent countless hours on projects. He also had a generous heart, volunteering his time to deliver meals to seniors in his community. Mr. Jackson was of the Baptist faith and a member of Salacoa Baptist Church, where he also served as a deacon. Mr. Jackson's legacy of service, hard work, and kindness will be cherished by those who knew him.
Survivors include his two children, Sandra Jackson and Laura Hufstetler (Eric); his sister, Ann Nix; seven grandchildren, Hoyt Defoor (Rachel), Chelsea Baldwin, Christopher Gravitt, Jennifer Silver, Kristin Myers, Kasie Price, and Tyler Gravitt; several great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, April 5th, 2025 at 2 PM in the chapel of Thomas Funeral Home with Rev. Randy Fouts officiating. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery. Gentlemen serving as pallbearers include, Keith West, Gene Gresham, Terry Worley, Billy Silvers, and Sean Kirby.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 5th from 12 PM until 2 PM at the funeral home.
