Obituary of Robin Jackson

Robin (Shy) Jackson was born in Utica, New York on February 10, 1957, to the late Pearl Jackson.  He entered into the loving arms of the Lord on September 29, 2023, at Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, NY.

Rob grew up in Rome, NY.  He graduated from Rome Free Academy’s Class of 1975.  He then attended Hamilton College and graduated in 1979 with a Bachelor’s degree.  Robin was an avid basketball player and played all through his public-school years and at Hamilton College.

In 1981, Rob met the love of his life, Jean D. Hudson of Williamsport, Pennsylvania.   On July 2, 1983, they were united in marriage in Williamsport, PA, and then resided in Rome, NY.   They were married for over 40 years and during that time had a son, Sean A. Jackson and a daughter, Jessica M. Jackson.

In 1986, Rob joined the Army reserves and attained the rank of Captain.  He served in the reserves until 2001.  As a veteran, he joined the American Legion.

Rob worked at Central New York Psychiatric Center in Marcy, New York for over 23 years as a Security Hospital Treatment Assistant.  He then joined the New York State Division of Parole as a Parole Officer until his retirement in 2013.

Rob, a born-again Christian, was a member of Abundant Life Church in Syracuse, NY.  He and his wife, Jean, became members in 2008 and served in various positions.  He also had the privilege of going to Africa with a team from the church to help ready the African Children’s Home for street boys.  He felt led by the Lord to do this and was very happy and proud to be part of the team.

Sports was a favorite pastime.  He enjoyed attending SU basketball games and football games.  He also loved watching sports of any kind while relaxing in his La-Z-Boy recliner.

Rob loved traveling with family and was able to travel to many states and to other countries such as China.  He enjoyed fishing and hunting.  He loved listening to various kinds of music and gospel music spoke to his heart.

Rob was a natural extrovert, and he loved being around people as he shared little snippets of wisdom, especially to the younger generation.  He spoke with a genuine sincerity which endeared him to many people.

Rob leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted and loving wife of 40 years, Jean Jackson; two children, Sean Jackson (Latoya) of Brooklyn, NY and Jessica Jackson of Liverpool, NY; 2 grandchildren, Rakeem Sean Jackson and Maleek Robin Jackson; three sisters Ola Mae Henry, Ella Mae Brooks, Virginia Ann Brown and three brothers, Eddie Paul Jackson (Jeanne), Willie Jackson (Christine) and Ray Pearl (Kari) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Rob was predeceased by his brothers-in-law Harry Henry and Robert Brooks.

The Viewing will take place on Friday, October 13th from 3:00 pm -6:00 pm at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Road in Rome, NY.  The funeral service will take place at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church on Saturday October 14th at 11:00 am, 203 Erie Blvd. E, Rome, NY, followed by interment at Evergreen Cemetery with military honors, in the Town of Lee, NY.