Who Is Rev. Jesse Jackson’s Wife Jacqueline Jackson? All About Civil Rights Activist

Tuesday, February 17, 2026 — Following the death of legendary civil rights leader Jesse Jackson at the age of 84, public attention has turned toward the woman who stood beside him for more than six decades: his wife, Jacqueline Jackson. A fellow activist, author, and humanitarian, Jacqueline played a quiet but powerful role throughout Jesse Jackson’s long public life.

Early Life and Education of Jacqueline Jackson

Jacqueline Jackson was born in Fort Pierce, Florida. After her parents separated, her mother later remarried, and the family moved to Virginia. Jacqueline completed her schooling there before enrolling at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, commonly known as North Carolina A&T.

It was during her freshman year at A&T that she met Jesse Jackson. At the time, she was focused on education and independence. However, their paths soon became closely linked through shared values and activism.

How Jacqueline and Jesse Jackson Met

The couple met in the early 1960s on campus. Jacqueline later recalled that Jesse stood out because of his confidence and charm. Despite her initial hesitation toward marriage, the bond grew stronger.

They married on New Year’s Eve in 1962. Their partnership would last more than 60 years and become one of the most enduring marriages in American public life.

A Life Dedicated to Civil Rights and Humanitarian Work

While Jesse Jackson became the public face of major civil rights movements, Jacqueline Jackson built her own legacy. She worked with several civil rights organizations, including efforts connected to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, founded by Martin Luther King Jr..

In the 1970s, Jacqueline led the first delegation of African American women to Ethiopia to witness famine conditions. This visit later helped launch a major humanitarian fundraising campaign.

She also played a role in organizing the 1972 National Black Political Convention and remained active in community-based advocacy for decades.

Jacqueline Jackson as an Author

In 2018, Jacqueline published her book Loving You, Thinking of You, Don’t Forget to Pray. The book is a collection of personal letters she wrote to her son during his time in prison. It reflected her deep faith, resilience, and belief in redemption.

Her writing offered a rare look into the personal struggles faced by families living under public scrutiny.

Family Life and Children

Jesse and Jacqueline Jackson had five children together over the course of their marriage. They later became grandparents. Jesse Jackson also acknowledged a daughter born in 1992 from a relationship outside the marriage, a chapter the family addressed privately.

Despite personal and public challenges, Jacqueline remained committed to her family and faith.

Honors and Recognition

In May 2021, Jacqueline Jackson received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from North Carolina A&T State University. The honor recognized her lifetime of service in civil rights, humanitarian work, and social justice.

Her Role in Jesse Jackson’s Life

In past interviews, Jacqueline described Jesse Jackson as the “center” of her life. She spoke openly about their shared struggles and victories. Until his final days, she remained by his side.

Jesse Jackson passed away peacefully on February 17, 2026, surrounded by family, according to an official statement.