Rev. Jesse Jackson, a prominent civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate, died Tuesday at the age of 84. While Jackson was widely recognized for his advocacy on national and international stages, residents of Chicago’s South Shore neighborhood remembered him as a neighbor and community member.
Jackson lived in the Jackson Park Highlands area for decades. Neighbors described him as approachable and caring, often sharing stories about historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. “As a little boy, you see him as one thing, as larger than life,” said Oliver Speller, who lived next door to Jackson for nine years. “As a grown man, it’s a whole different kind of thinking. You see him as just another man. He was a real neighbor, a regular person with a lot of advice, big laughs and cool stories.”
Branden Goodman-Zollar grew up across from Jackson’s home and recalled knowing him simply as “Rev.” Her family had close ties to Operation PUSH; her grandmother Doris Zollar served on its women’s board while her mother was active in the organization from childhood. Goodman-Zollar said there was “some difference” between Jackson’s public persona and his private self: “a gentle giant” who would express affection and faith openly.
She shared memories such as Jackson spending time with her grandmother during family gatherings: “He didn’t leave her side the entire night,” she said.
Goodman-Zollar noted that while she did not idolize Jackson due to their personal relationship, she later came to appreciate his broader impact when introducing him to her own children. Speller also reflected on how his early experiences volunteering at Operation PUSH came full circle when he became Jackson’s neighbor.
Speller now leads youth mentoring programs at Kenwood High School inspired by Jackson’s legacy. The Highlands neighborhood has been home to other notable figures including Muhammad Ali and Gale Sayers.
Dominique Ross, Cook County Circuit Court judge and resident of the Highlands, said: “He [always] had a kind word… I am just very sad to hear of his passing.”
Jackson remained active in local events even after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He attended rallies supporting diversity initiatives and celebrated milestones with fellow activists.
LaShawn Brown of South Shore Special Service Area No. 42 described his influence: “His legacy was about unity in the community… bringing people together to make an impact for justice.”
To honor Jackson locally, banners featuring images from throughout his life will be installed along major streets by the South Shore Chamber’s development corporation. Buntings will also be displayed at nonprofits and businesses in recognition of his contributions.
Tonya Trice, chamber director, explained: “With people coming in off the tollway and coming in off Lake Shore Drive every day, we want everyone traveling through South Shore to know how much we honor, love and appreciate the work that Rev. Jackson has done.”
Community organizations are planning further tributes through cultural events developed with input from elders who worked closely with Jackson.
“We continue to lift our history up in the community while also plotting our course forward,” said Jonathan Trey Scott of the chamber’s development corporation.
