MEMORIAL RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, God in His Infinite Wisdom has called Elder Hiram Jackson, most beloved citizen, to his eternal reward, March 20, 2016; and
WHEREAS, This august body has been informed of his passing by the Honorable Carrie M. Austin, Alderman of the 34th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Elder Hiram Jackson was born on September 18, 1928 in Meadville, Mississippi. He attended Meadville High School, born out of an old Army camp which his father was instrumental in building. Hiram played on an award-winning basketball team as a guard alongside his brothers, Henry and Jewel; and
WHEREAS, Hiram joined the Army in 1951 at the start of the Korean conflict. He was a member of the Army Infantry 25th Division, 35th Regiment. During his service, Hiram survived a military conflict although he suffered a ruptured eardrum and a concussion from a mortar explosion. As a result, Hiram was honored with the Purple Heart for his service and bravery. His military experience helped mold him into a disciplined and courageous man and a strong example for others; and
WHEREAS, Hiram met and married the love of his life, Annie Mae Collins, on August 11, 1956. Hiram earned a certificate from Guild's Tailoring School through Dunbar Vocational School. He and his bothers operated an upholstery business out of his home. His wife participated in the business by making customized slip covers. Several years later, his career path changed and he began employment with Spector Freight Trucking Company; and
WHEREAS, Hiram was a devoted family man. He and his wife were blessed with fourteen children, twelve of whom are still living. A traveler at heart, he delighted in taking his family on many vacations. He and his wife made it a priority for the family to spend quality time together; and
WHEREAS, While relaxation was necessary, education was essential. Hiram stressed the importance of higher education to his children and every generation thereafter. All of his children graduated from college, some obt...
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