Johnnie L. Jackson

Johnnie Lebarron Jackson passed away peacefully at home on April 12, 2025, with his family by his side.

Born in Mobile, Alabama, on June 21, 1942, Johnnie was the eldest of two sons of Una Jane and Dora “Dude” Jackson. From an early age, music was at the heart of his identity. His extraordinary talent earned him a music scholarship from Interlochen Academy to Western Michigan University (WMU), making him the first Black man to receive that honor. He graduated in 1964 with a degree in Music and went on to become the first African American band director in Bangor, Michigan.

Johnnie’s lifelong passion for music led to a remarkable and varied career as both a performer and educator. He taught music at Folsom Prison in Sacramento, California, bringing creativity and compassion to a place where both were often in short supply. He later joined the faculty at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, where he mentored countless students and helped shape their musical and personal journeys.

A gifted pianist and trombonist, Johnnie performed with an impressive array of artists including The Beach Boys, Pearl Bailey, Myron Floren (of The Lawrence Welk Show), Paul Anka, and renowned jazz trumpeter Clark Terry. He marched in Chicago’s Bud Billiken Parade for five consecutive years and taught at the Jamey Aebersold Summer Jazz Workshops until 2008. Until 2020, he also played trombone with the Fox Cities Swing Band.

Johnnie embraced life—and people—with an open heart, a keen sense of humor, and a curious, generous spirit. He found joy in hunting, fishing, biking, running, reading, traveling, and, most of all, connecting with people from all walks of life. Those who met him often said he was one of the kindest individuals they had ever known.

His life philosophy was simple yet profound: “Learn to love yourself, and others will follow your lead. Be tolerant of others.” This belief carried him through both joyful moments and deep challenges, including his college years during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Through it all, Johnnie remained rooted in courage, grace, and dignity.

In his final years, Johnnie faced cancer, dementia, and ALS with the same quiet strength, compassion, and signature sense of humor that defined his life. His unwavering belief in the goodness of people—his commitment to music, empathy, tolerance, and non-judgment—made him a rare and radiant soul in a divided world.

Johnnie Jackson was more than a musician or a teacher—he was a light. His life is a testament to what it means to live boldly, love deeply, and face hardship with grace and integrity. Though he has left this world, his spirit continues to inspire us to lead with kindness, embrace differences, and meet each other with understanding.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Dora and Una Jane Jackson; his half-sisters, Vera White and Dortha Tervalon; and his in-laws, Ethel and Emil Formella.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lorrie Formella; his children, Loretta (Dee) Richardson, Trevor (Shelley Stevens) Jackson, and Philip Jackson; and his children’s mother, Jauanna Jackson. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brandon, Malcolm, Taylor (Michael), Jack (Samantha), and Cooper; his great-grandchildren, Luna Rae and Molly Jane; his brother, Charles Jackson; and many cherished brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at Moments Hospice for their loving care of Johnnie and their unwavering support of Lorrie during this journey. A special thanks goes to Melissa Tessen, Jessica Medina Reyes, and Karina Tamayo with Moments Hospice; Orneland with Senior Helpers; and Jeanette Klundt, Joelin Mueller, and Yolanda Ruiz for their respectful and tender care.

We also wish to thank the Fox Valley Memory Project, St. Paul Elder Services, Respite Care Association of Wisconsin, the ALS Association, and both the Calumet and Outagamie County ADRCs for their outstanding programs that enhanced the quality of life for Johnnie and for all those living with dementia and ALS.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 1, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the High Cliff Golf and Event Center, W5095 Golf Course Rd, Sherwood, WI 54169. All who knew and loved Johnnie are warmly invited to join us in honoring his extraordinary life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fox Valley Memory Project, the St. Paul Elder Services Care Assurance Endowment Fund, or the Moments Hospice Foundation.