Remembering Michael G. Jackson: A Life of Service and Dedication
Michael G. Jackson, a beloved resident of rural Belknap, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 72 on October 22, 2025, at Massac Memorial Hospital in Metropolis, Illinois. Born on June 18, 1953, in Carmi, Illinois, Michael was the second of seven children born to Bud and Hazel Jackson. He married Beth Hutchison in 2015 and they resided in the Forman community near Belknap. Michael is survived by his wife, step-daughters, siblings, sister-in-law, and numerous relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, and a brother-in-law.
Michael attended Mt. Carmel High School and later served in the United States Army as a tank commander, participating in combat in all three Gulf Wars. After retiring from the Army in 2008, he settled on a farm near Simpson and worked as a bus driver for Vienna Grade School. He later provided transportation for Amish families. Despite health challenges, Michael remained active, assisting his father-in-law on the farm and enjoying outdoor activities like mowing, fishing, and hunting.
An active member of the community, Michael was involved in the Christian Motorcycle Association and the Masonic fraternity. He and Beth attended Safe Harbor Ministries near Belknap. A service honoring Michael's life will be held on October 24, 2025, at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna, with burial at Belknap Masonic Cemetery and military graveside rites by the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post #5222. Visitation will precede the service, and memorials may be made to Safe Harbor Ministries or The American Red Cross. Michael's legacy of service and dedication will be remembered by all who knew him.