Howard Lee Jackson, a beloved husband, devoted father, and proud Papaw, passed peacefully surrounded by his loving family on February 18, 2026, at the age of 76. Born and raised in Bowdon, Georgia, Howard’s life was firmly rooted in the values of faith, family, hard work, and quiet kindness. He carried himself with a steady presence and a warm heart, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
A faithful member of Liberty Baptist Church, Howard found both comfort and purpose within his church family. His faith guided the way he lived; with humility, compassion, and a willingness to serve others without seeking recognition. Whether through fellowship, encouragement, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Howard’s life reflected the strength of his beliefs.
Howard proudly served his country in the United States Army, a chapter of his life that shaped his character and deepened his sense of responsibility. Following his military service, he began what would become a remarkable 45-year career at Southwire. As a Human Resource Manager, Howard was known not only for his professionalism and leadership but also for the genuine care he extended to the people he worked alongside. He listened, advocated, and led with fairness, earning the respect of coworkers who saw him as both a leader and a friend.
Above all else, Howard treasured his family. He shared a lifetime of love and partnership with his wife, Sharon, building a home filled with laughter, resilience, and unwavering support. As a father, he provided guidance and steady encouragement, while his role as Papaw brought him immeasurable joy. He delighted in time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, celebrating milestones, sharing stories, and creating memories that will be carried forward for generations. His quiet pride in his family was evident in every conversation and every smile.
Howard is survived by his loving wife, Sharon Pierce Jackson; his daughter, Cindy Tucker and her husband Todd; and his cherished grandchildren, Cortney Cross and her husband William, Tori Mackezyk and her husband Mike, Brandon Bearden, and Hannah Jersey and her husband Brandon. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Westin Jersey and Ryder Jersey, and eagerly awaited the arrival of Baby Boy Cross. He is further survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Charlotte and Frank Tinker, Dewaine and Jade Pierce, Dianne Jackson, and Sara Jackson.
He was preceded in death by his father, Cliff Jackson; his mother, Alice Ayers Jackson; his sons, Brandon Jackson and Jeremy Bearden; his siblings, Josephine Fletcher, John Jackson, Beatrice Brown, Louise Bradley, Martha Isaacs, Rachel Johnson, Jayne Toney, Jesse Jackson, James Jackson, and Tom Jackson; and his parents-in-law, Cora Mae Pierce and James Pierce.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Martin & Hightower Funeral Home.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Howard’s life at Liberty Baptist Church on Sunday, February 22, 2026. He will lie in state from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Ken Bowman, Bro. Mike Rollins and Bro. Adam Mangram officiating. Following the service, Howard will be laid to rest in the church cemetery. Cody Pierce, William Cross, Mike Mackezyk, Brandon Jersey, Rodney Brand, and Frankie Berna will serve as pallbearers, with David Webb, Frank Tinker, Johnny Akin, and Kyle Berna honored as honorary pallbearers.
Howard’s life was one defined not by grand gestures but by consistent love, steady faith, and a deep commitment to the people who mattered most. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friends he encouraged, and the countless lives quietly touched by his kindness.
Messages of condolence may be shared with the family at www.martin-hightower.com. Martin & Hightower Heritage Chapel is honored to serve the Jackson family.