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Throughout history, there are several influential individuals that have shaped many people's lives. Among the list of people who have inspired life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness itself, hails the life-story of Robert Lee Jackson, Sr.
Robert, often referred to as “Bob”, devoted his life to not only his loved ones, but also to serving the people and uplifting the community in which he lived. Born in 1939 at the historic, Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana, Robert grew up just 60 miles away in Geismar, “the heart of Louisiana’s chemical corridor.
During his early years, Robert’s parents (Alice & Sherman Jackson) taught him many great lessons. In fact, they instilled in him great respect for his neighbors as well as a heart full of love for his family. He was the youngest of six children. As a youth, Robert became a member of the Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church and at the age of twelve, he was baptized by the church and accepted Jesus Christ as his personal savior.
While attending Prairieville School, Jackson entered the work field as a bus driver at the age of 15, thus developing notable work ethic. In fact, upon graduating, “Bob” would later support his family by driving a school bus full-time and even held a position at a Texaco gas station while moonlighting as an insurance agent. In his quest for academic and workforce development, Robert found himself attending Frazier’s Trade School(Dr. J.M.Frazier, Sr./Hickory Street School) for electrical training.
Robert fell in love and was first married in 1961 to Brenda P. Jackson, and to this union, three children were born: Lamaralus, Robert Jr., and Sherman. He was always seeking new avenues by which he could move up, make progress, and take better care of his family. With that in mind, he sought employment and was hired by the Uniroyal Chemical Plant in Geismar. Jackson used much of what he learned at Uniroyal (about the chemical industry) in order to get a better position at BASF Chemical Plant as an operator and instrument technician. Robert had a very successful career with BASF, where he would work for seventeen years. Again, Robert was always busy, working to better himself and his family. Ultimately, he would create his own company, Robert Jackson Enterprises, LLC, as he continued his life’s journey.
In 1971, he was one of the founders of the Geismar Volunteer Fire Department where he served as President for forty years. In fact, his garage housed the department’s fire truck until the parish of Ascension built a permanent department structure.
Robert withstood the loneliness of being a widower until he met Louvenia S. Jackson and in 1973 they were married and began a family of their own that included two children, Daymon and Derrick.
Robert never lost his love of his neighbors and his community and he continued his public service as a member of the Ascension Parish Fair Association for twenty years. He would serve for eighteen years with the Jambalaya Festival Association of Gonzales, Louisiana, all while he was a member of the State Airport Committee of Gonzales. Most importantly, he never forgot his church and his God as he faithfully served as a member of the trustee board at First Pilgrim Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Jackson was also a member of The 17 Member Committee, Ocean 11 Social Club, and the global organization of Freemasons.
Robert Jackson’s life had a profound influence and lasting affect on his family and friends, on his community, and ultimately, on generations to come. His hard work and determination, along with his actions, enhanced the lives of those around him. His life’s work promoted self improvement, charitable works, and building a better world through brotherhood. Recognized by his community, his government, his family and his peers, Robert received numerous accolades for his many years of dedication and service to his community as well as his country.