Larry Jackson, founder and former CEO of Jackson marketing agency in Greenville, died on March 13, according to an obituary by Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes.
He was 76 years old.
Jackson was born in 1946 in Greenville.
Jackson, a 55-year veteran of the communication industry, began his marketing career serving as a public information officer in the U.S. Army, where he directed training films and videos, and served as editor of the post newspaper. He was awarded the Army’s Commendation Medal for his services and received an honorable discharge from the Army.
After his stint in the military, Jackson worked for companies such as the Ford Motor Company, where he served as a supervisor in marketing services at its world headquarters. He also served as vice president and general manager with Bell & Howell, a U.S. communications company.
In 1980, Jackson and his business partner Sam Dawson opened Jackson-Dawson Communications in Detroit. The agency helped automotive brands with product launches and dealer training. Jackson opened an office in Greenville in 1987.
Jackson divested of his interest in Jackson-Dawson Communications and rebranded the Greenville office as Jackson. The company expanded to include Jackson Motorsports Group and opened an office in San Diego.
We mourn the loss of our founder, Larry Jackson. His vision and hard work created and built Jackson. His life was defined by faith, family, clients and community. Larry, thanks for your vision, your example and for giving us a chance to do what we love. https://t.co/4pIZJ3bLai pic.twitter.com/OslF44K0vo
— Jackson (@JacksonMG) March 14, 2023
In 2010, Jackson became chairman of his company and his son Darrell became CEO.
“Dad was my mentor as a father and as a marketer,” said Jackson President and CEO Darrell Jackson. “For years, I saw him passionately lead brands beyond their potential while also investing in our associates every day. Today, our “north star” is defined by the way Dad lived his life both professionally and personally— uncommonly creative, uncommonly collaborative and always living out the golden rule.”
Jackson was a graduate of Bob Jones University. He was named the college’s Alumnus of the Year in 2000 and served on its Board of Trustees from 1982 to 2016. He also served as chairman of BJU’s Board of Trustees from 2013 to 2016.
He served on a variety of academic and professional advisory boards, including:
- Greenville Chamber’s Headquarters Recruiting Committee
- Greenville Technical College’s Foundation Board
- Greenville County Economic Development Board
Jackson also served on the boards of several faith-based organizations, including:
- Gospel Fellowship Association
- The Wilds Christian Camp and Conference Center
- CMI Ministries
- E.A.D Ministries
Jackson is survived by his wife of 54 years, Betty; children Darrell (Alicia), Andrea (Matt) and Eric; and grandchildren Gage, Ellie, Ali, Clayton, Kaine and Merin.
A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on March 20 at Calvary Baptist Church in Simpsonville followed by a visitation.
