Obituary of James Robert Jackson

James “Jim” R. Jackson, 76, of Niles, passed away at the South Bend Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, May 25, 2022. On February 14, 1946, Jim was brought into this world by the late Harold and Helen Jackson in Buchanan, Michigan. Over the course of thirty-two years Jim had sewn himself into generations of students in the Michiana area. He was a kind, warm hearted soul who was better than most at connecting with middle school students. Jim retired from the South Bend Community School district and enjoyed over twenty years of his retirement before falling ill. His life outside of work was spent with his family and friends, as he loved to socialize and spend quality time with the people he cared about. On August 19, 1967, James married the woman he would spend his entire life with, Vicki L. Chilson. The two were a match made in heaven and we able to enjoy many years of memories that will be cherished forever. Their union eventually brought them their only child, Michael Jackson. As a family they enjoyed traveling, camping, and sightseeing across the country. In 2008, Jim and Vicki were given the news that Michael, their son, passed away. Their family was heartbroken but as a result of their love and support, they were able to get through and eventually find peace. After some time, Jim got back into the things he loved most; go-carts, boating, hunting, fishing, and working on his motorcycles. Jim and Vicki also loved having company, every other weekend they would host poker nights in their garage. Anyone that knew Jim in the recent years would also know about Nadia the rescue dog, who eventually became Nadia the spoiled dog. If there was anything that Jim was notorious for it was his ability to pinch pennies. Although he had a successful career, he always valued saving money rather than spending all of it which eventually coined him the nickname “Squeek”. Squeek had a heart of gold and was a man that many people looked forward to spending time with. He did his part in making our world a better place and his memory will be cherished by all that knew him. Jim in preceded in death by his son, Michael Jackson; his parents, Harold P. Jackson and Helen S. (Snook) Jackson; as well as many other extended family members. Surviving Jim include his loving wife, Vicki L. Jackson; two sisters; nephew, Craig Kennedy, as well as many other nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; lifelong best friend, Joe White; as well as sister-in-law, Cathy White. A funeral service for Jim will be held at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Thursday, June 2, 2022. Public visitation will open at 11:00 a.m. with the service beginning at 12 noon. Immediately following the service Jim will be laid to rest at the Forest Lawn Cemetery in Three Oaks, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made out to the Salvation Army in Niles.