This tribute to a life that touched the lives of many others. I have written this as a personal recognition of the efforts of the Rev. Roger Leon Jackson Sr.

The title, making reference to his Bible and hammer means that he was there with whichever he needed to fulfill his mission. Sometimes, the calling was for a spiritual lifting and others it was the physical surroundings that needed repair. No matter which, the Rev. Jackson was ready!

The Rev. Jackson was born to Evander and Mina West Jackson of Autryville, N.C., on July 23, 1919. He was one of 12 children. He worked on a family farm and after finishing high school, worked in a defense plant in Portsmouth, Va.

After World War II, the Rev. Jackson returned to work on the family farm. He brought with him his wife, Hesba Hall Jackson and a new son, Roger Leon Jackson Jr.

The Rev. Jackson’s mother, Mina, had prayed that one of her sons would become a preacher. In 1951, the Rev. Jackson entered the Texas Seminary and in January of 1952 was called to be a pastor at Pleasant Union Baptist Church in Roseboro. His mother’s request had been answered. In 1963, both Jackson men received their diplomas. The Rev. Jackson received his BA from Campbell College and Roger Jr. received his diploma from Roseboro High School.

In 1966, The Rev. Jackson’s son, Roger Jr., married Sandra Faye Autry of Autryville. In 1968, Faye blessed the Jackson family with granddaughter, Cindy. The Rev. Jackson was always smiling whenever Cindy was around. Anyone who saw these two together knew of the great love they shared. This love grew and was ever present between them.

During the Rev. Jackson’s years of service, he lost his wife, Hesba. He later married Mildred Sandy Hobbs and was married to her at the time of his death. Sadly, the Rev. Jackson lost his son Roger Jr. in 2006. His granddaughter, Cindy Bedard, blessed the Rev. Jackson with two great-grandsons, Cole and Dakota Bedard. The Rev. Jackson was the last living child of Evander and Mina Jackson.

The Rev. Jackson was part of many important events of my own life. He baptized me, performed by wedding ceremony, baptized my husband and my children. In 1984, we lost our home during a tornado. The Rev. Jackson was there for the entire community during this time. I have many cherished memories of Mr. Roger. He was lovingly called “Mr. Roger” by many.

Well, now lets see what we can recall of the Rev. Roger’s antics. Irvin Hall, do you remember the Rev. Jackson driving his big white car in the cornfield to gather corn? Hey, Lottie New Sessoms, we were slumped down in our seats on the big green church bus, remember? Why? Because the Rev. Jackson drove it from the Cumberland Auditorium all the way back home to Pleasant Union Church yard without stopping!! He had the “pedal to the medal” and timed the traffic lights just right! Who saw his birthday cake hit the floor in the fellowship hall? Cindy, how long did the pony stay in the house? How many of you have a “Jackson” patented pump house lid? If you gave him something, you got a “Thank-You-Gram,” right? Were you in Lottie’s pool when the Rev. Jackson dove in, clothes and all? Did you help stretch the quilts made in his honor? So many memories, so many lives touched!

The Rev. Jackson served Pleasant Union Baptist Church and her fellowship for over 41 years. If you were ever touched by his example, then honor him and reach out to help fill God’s Kingdom. The Rev. Roger Jackson Sr.— July 23, 1919-May 2, 2009.