Walter Floyd Jackson

A Life of Faith, Service, Leadership, and Legacy

Walter Floyd Jackson was born on April 26, 1943, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Mr. Daniel Jackson, Sr., and Mrs. Gladys Jackson. He was the fifth of eight children. 

At an early age, Walter accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, establishing a foundation of faith that remained an important part of his life. He later became a member of Saint Paul United Methodist Church in Birmingham, Alabama.

Walter received his early education in the Birmingham Public School System and graduated from Ullman High School. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he served with honor and dedication. Upon completing his military service, Walter continued his pursuit of higher education. He was admitted to Kentucky State University, where he also played football, and later enrolled at Miles College in Fairfield, Alabama. In 1972, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree, marking an important milestone in a lifetime devoted to education, leadership, and service. Walter's academic journey also led him to the prestigious Harvard Law School, where he pursued legal studies. After attending Harvard, he made the personal and deliberate decision not to return, choosing instead to remain in his beloved hometown of Birmingham. Guided by a deep sense of responsibility to his community, Walter devoted his talents, education, and leadership to strengthening local institutions, advancing opportunities, and contributing to the continued growth and progress of the city he proudly called home. His decision reflected a lifelong belief that meaningful change begins with service to one's own community.

Throughout his distinguished professional career, Walter demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service, community development, and improving the lives of others. His years of dedicated leadership allowed him to make meaningful contributions to institutions and communities throughout Birmingham and Jefferson County.

Walter served as Director of Community Affairs at Lawson State Community College, where he helped develop and oversee numerous programs and initiatives, including the Lawson State Child Development Center. His dedication to educational advancement and community enrichment reflected his belief in creating opportunities for future generations.

His career in public administration continued through years of leadership and service to the citizens of Jefferson County. He ultimately retired as Chief Deputy County Manager of Jefferson County, Alabama, following a distinguished tenure overseeing multimillion-dollar operations, managing essential human resources infrastructure, and providing leadership for critical public health and youth services. His professional legacy was defined by his commitment to responsible leadership, community advancement, and public service.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Walter was an avid music lover and a dedicated community activist. His appreciation for music brought him great joy, while his passion for community involvement reflected his lifelong commitment to uplifting others and advocating for positive change. Whether through his professional leadership or personal involvement, Walter believed in the importance of strengthening communities and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him.

Beyond his achievements, Walter will be remembered for the life he lived, the relationships he cherished, and the lasting impact he made upon his family, friends, colleagues, and community.

On Friday, October 16, 2026, Walter transitioned from this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, service, and cherished memories.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Mr. Daniel Jackson, Sr., and Mrs. Gladys Jackson; his brothers, Benjamin Jackson, Daniel Jackson, Jr., and Donald Jackson; his son, Anthony Jackson; and his sisters, Carol Jackson-Walton and Dr. Gwendolyn Jackson.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his two children, Kimberly Joy Jackson and Kendall Jory (Ashley) Jackson; two grandsons, Ethan Rayne Jackson and Dallas Hunter Brooks; one brother, Mr. Ronald E. Jackson; one sister, Diane Young Jackson; his close friend, Lillie Minnard; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Walter Floyd Jackson's legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the communities he served, and the family he loved. His  dedication to service, his pursuit of excellence, and his enduring faith will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. Though he is no longer with us in body, his memory, love, and legacy will forever remain in our hearts.