Estes Lee Jackson's Obituary
Estes Lee Jackson, age 100, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025, at NMMC Hamilton Nursing Home. He was born in Marion County, Alabama on September 25, 1925, to his parents Loranzy Veto Jackson and Dora Mitchell Jackson.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and fellowship to his wife and loving partner of 80 years, Ercelle Sullins Jackson; his sons, Bravell Jackson (Brenda) and David Jackson (Darvi); granddaughters, Benja Jackson and Brooke Jackson Banister (Rusty); grandson, Collin Jackson; great grandsons, Jackson Banister and Braden Banister; sisters, Elgie Jackson Wood, Eloise Jackson McCarley (Rudy), and Sue Jackson Lee (Vernon); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as two brothers, Eulis Jackson, and Auta V Jackson; and brother-in-law, Frank Wood.
Estes met and fell in love with his bride, Ercelle, in Mobile, AL during World War II where he was working as a welder repairing warships at the Alabama State Docks and playing with his bluegrass band, the Dixie Jubilee Boys. They married on March 18, 1945, and soon moved home to Hamilton where they lived, worked, and raised their family. Estes and Ercelle were founding members of the Hamilton Primitive Baptist Church where he served as a long-time deacon and beloved member of the congregation. He worked for the Alabama Department of Transportation, retiring after 32 years of service.
Estes loved music, but most especially Sacred Harp and bluegrass music. He was a great mandolin picker and loved to play at family events. He served as the chairman for both the Marion County Courthouse Sacred Harp Singing and the Sullins Schoolhouse Sacred Harp Singing which were held for many years. He passed on his love of music, singing, and buck dancing to many, including his kids and grandkids.
Estes was a friend to all he met, approaching life with a smile on his face, a contagious laugh, and a song in his heart. He was full of mischief and loved to talk and tell a good story. He truly lived by the mantra, “Love thy neighbor.” He spread kindness and joy wherever he went, and this legacy will live on in his family and all those who were blessed to know him. His homegoing service will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the Hamilton Funeral Home Chapel. The visitation will be at 11:00 a.m. with the service following at 12:00 noon. All friends and family are welcome to attend. Burial will follow at Sullins Schoolhouse Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his name to the Sullins Schoolhouse Cemetery Fund.
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