Bernard Merl “Butch” Jackson, 79, of Bonnie, Illinois, passed away at 10:57 pm on December 31, 2020, at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mount Vernon, Illinois.
He was born March 9, 1941, at his home in Mill Shoals, Illinois, weighing only 1.5 pounds. His parents were Ross Andrew Jackson and Maurenia Merl (Carrell) Jackson. Bernard married the love of his life, Judy Ann Knox on March 3, 1965, after dating only two weeks. They were married at Marcoe Church by Reverend Ed Shannon and were blessed with nearly fifty-six years of marriage.
At a very young age, Bernard’s parents passed away and he lived with different family members, including his cousins, Irene Weisenberger, Sonja Balding, and Aloma Tripp. They were like brothers and sisters and shared many good times together.
In addition to his beloved wife, he is survived by his daughter, Angela Cash-Lynch, and grandson, Zachary Bernard Cash. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He had many wonderful memories with Mike and Vicky Campbell and Junior and Melba Knox, his brothers and sisters-in-law. Bernard loved all of his family and enjoyed spending time with them.
Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Maurenia Jackson; brothers, Maurice Jackson, Charles Jackson, and Barney Jackson; special cousin, Maxie Linder; special nephew, Mark Knox; in-laws, Louis Knox and Betty Knox; and son-in-law, Terry Lynch.
After high school, Bernard joined the military. He was enlisted for seven years, during that time he was deployed into the Vietnam War where he was stationed on the front lines. He rose in ranks to an E-5 Sergeant and was proud to serve in the Big Red One. His valiant service earned him a Purple Heart, the Soldier’s Medal for Heroism, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. He also earned two Marksmanship Badges for Expert and Sharpshooter.
Bernard gave his heart to the Lord in 1965. He felt called to be a minister of the Gospel and pastored many churches over the years, including; Marcoe Church, Keenes Community Church, Dahlgren Community Church, and Smith’s Chapel.
Most of all he adored his family. They spent endless hours laughing and just spending time together. His grandson was his pride and joy. They both preached the Gospel together and won many people to Christ.
A Graveside Service will be held Monday, January 4, 2021, at 2:00 pm at Rightnowar Cemetery in Waltonville, Illinois with his grandson, Zach Cash officiating. Interment will follow. Memorials may be made in Bernard’s honor to the Jackson family, in the care of Angie Cash-Lynch. Please remember to observe social distancing at this time. We are limited to 10 people in the tent at a time. Following the CDC and NFDA regulations, we encourage everyone to wear a mask. They will be made available, upon request. Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.
