James Michael "Mike" Jackson

James Michael “Mike” Jackson, 78, of Kannapolis, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 16, 2023 surrounded by his loving family.

Mike was born on April 6, 1945 in Winston Salem, NC to the late Walter Jackson Sr. and Virginia Crooks Jackson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Walter “Sonny” Jackson Jr. and his sister, Rita Curlee.

Mike honorably served his country in the United States Air Force and was a Vietnam War Veteran. He retired as an inspector from the State Department of Agriculture. After retirement, he worked at Irish Creek Golf Club. He was a talented woodworker and could fix almost anything. He also enjoyed working on cars. He loved taking trips to the beach, golfing, and fishing. Most of all, he dearly loved spending time with his family.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 55 years, Wanda Jackson; three children, Tim (Lori) Jackson, Jodi (Bill) Burris, and Todd Jackson; four grandchildren, Cooper Burris, Dantan Jackson, Maura (Wyatt) Franks, and Cole (Gentry) Cooper; and a great-granddaughter, Nora Franks.

The family will receive friends on 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at Whitley’s Funeral Home Annex. A memorial service will follow and begin at 3:00 p.m. in the Annex Chapel with Pastor Gene Beaver officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, 5003 Hospice Ln., Kannapolis, NC 28081.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com.