Orville Jackson

Obituary For Orville Jackson

Orville Jerome Jackson is a name that will remain forever in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. He was born in the bustling city of Washington D.C. and grew up during a time of great change and progress. He lived through some of the most transformative moments in American history, including the Civil Rights movement and the Vietnam War.

In 1975, Orville moved to Steelton, PA where he met and married Deborah Jean Keys. Together, they reared a beautiful family that included five children: Malcolm Jackson, Angela Jackson, Olivia Jackson, Megan Reichard, and Brittney Jackson.

On July 28th, 2015, Orville found love again and became a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Hazel Harris, with whom he shared many happy years together.The family is grateful for her true devotion and care. Through their union, he gained a stepson Ben Harris III. Orville was a loving and supportive father who was always there to help. He was proud of his children's accomplishments and cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren.

Orville was also a well-respected member of the Greater Harrisburg community, where he made many lifelong friends. He was a man of integrity and compassion, who overcame addiction and incarceration on his way to finding God and his purpose.

OJ, as he was known to many, was a Master electrician who was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His contributions to the community were numerous, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Orville retired from Bethlehem Steel, operated as a sole proprietor under Basic Needs Company, and then served as a probation officer for Dauphin County.

A lifelong sports fanatic, Orville was an avid golfer and loved coaching football, including for the Steelton Raiders Football, Hershey High School Football, and Harrisburg Patriots. He was also a lifelong Washington Commanders fan and often argued with his children about their respective teams. He also loved solving puzzles, doing the daily crypto quote, Sudoku, and crossword puzzles in the newspaper. He loved using FaceTime to call his kids every day.

Orville became a Christian when he finally overcame his addiction to methadone. He prayed with a nurse who told him to call on God on November 3, 1972, and he has been calling on God ever since. He often answered his telephone with a shout of "Hallelujah" and recited Bible verses to teach life lessons. He found his church home at St. Paul’s Missionary Baptist Church where he served on the Steward Board, sang in the men’s choir, and men’s ministry.

Orville was called home to Heaven on Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at his home on a beautiful spring morning. He leaves behind his wife, Hazel, his beloved children, and grandchildren. In loving memory of Orville, let us take a moment to reflect on his legacy and the impact he had on the world around him. He may no longer be with us in body, but his spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear. Rest in peace, Orville Jerome Jackson.

A celebration of OJ’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 26 in the Sanctuary of his church, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 1201 N. 17th St, Harrisburg, with viewing from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to The Boys and Girls Club of Harrisburg.