Melvin Lee “Duke” Jackson Sr., 74, transitioned to his heavenly home on Sunday, May 29, 2016, at Sentara Obici Hospital. He was a native of Suffolk and was the son of the late Abraham and Celestine Thompson Jackson. He was predeceased by his siblings Billy, Audrey, Catherine, James, Edward, Mildred, Mary and Ronald.

Melvin was educated in the Suffolk Public Schools system and retired from Planters Peanuts. He was an avid sports enthusiast who followed baseball, basketball and football closely. He spent his younger years playing baseball as a member of the Suffolk Mets, the Ivor Tigers and various other local teams. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church until his health declined. He also played slow pitch softball with First Baptist Church Mahan Street.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 51 years, Rachel; a dedicated son, Melvin Jr.; a daughter, Terry Copeland (Robert); two brothers, Charles E. Jackson (Gloria Jean) and Wilbert Holland; niece/sister, Vivian Bryant (Reginald); four sisters-in-law and one brother-in-law; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one goddaughter, Kesha Liggins; a devoted barber/friend, Alvin Copeland; three devoted caregivers — Juanita Fleetwood, Phyllis Holland and Theresa Jackson-Pope; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was a member of the Suffolk Boosters Club and the SRB Club.

A celebration of life will be held at noon, Thursday, June 2, 2016, at First Baptist Church, 112 Mahan St. He will be laid to rest in Carver Memorial Cemetery. Condolences to the Jackson family may be extended www.crockerfuneralhome.com. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home Inc.