Al Preston Jackson, II

Al Preston Jackson, II

June 22, 1962 – March 17, 2024

Al Preston Jackson, II aka A.J. aka Jiggaman was born in Bronx, New York to Barbara Saint Clair and Al Preston Jackson, I. The Jacksons relocated to Tougaloo, Mississippi then to Jacksonville, Florida before settling in Fort Lauderdale in the early 1970s. Upon graduation from Nova High School, he earned a B.S. degree in Construction Engineering from Florida A & M University. During his studies at FAMU, Al became a member of the historic and illustrious Alpha Xi Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. He continued to be an active, financial member of the New Orleans Alumni Chapter in Louisiana.

Al began his military career as a United States Army ROTC Cadet at FAMU (Rattler Battalion). Uponcollege graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Being a natural and charismatic leader, he quickly ascended to the rank of Company Commander of the 16th Engineer Brigade (CMS). Al served 20 years in the US Army and received an Honorable Discharge. He retired at the rank of Major, a Field Grade Officer. With his degree and commission secured, Al joined Wise Construction, the largest black-owned firm in
Ohio. After 20 years, he relocated to southern Louisiana to assist with the rehabilitation efforts after the devastating Hurricane Katrina. While there, he spearheaded several high-profile projects including the Loius Armstrong Park restoration in the famous French Quarter. His military background enabled Al to foster long-lasting, professional partnerships. These collaborations resulted in impactful, sustainable improvements including the St. John Parish Corps of Engineers Levee System restoration. Al’s proudest achievement was opening, expanding, and exponentially growing his black owned business, Veterans Construction Company, LLC. Veterans is currently engaged in local, state, and federal
contracts for building and contracting services.

Some would call Al’s love for golf maniacal. He played several days a week, all year long, all around the world. He was recently elected as the 2024 Vice President of the River Parish Golf Association in Laplace, Louisiana. Al’s athleticism was not limited to golf, he was a member of two national champion flag football teams, winning USFTL and CO (Commanding Officer) titles.
Al II will be mourned by his father, Big Al, sister Barbara Barber, and brother David Jackson. His mother and sister, Crystal Nobles, preceded him in death. Nieces and nephews Ronnie, Ashley (Crystal), Casey, Jasmine (Barbie), Jordan, Barbara, and Kailey (David) have cherished memories of their favorite Uncle Al(The Kiddie’s Pal). He will be greatly missed by first cousins Brian Jackson and Jeanine (Jackson) Ferguson.

Al would have wanted to acknowledge his most loyal companion Morkies, Khaleesi (deceased) and Drago, whom he loved unconditionally. Al never met a stranger. Friends, family, and fraternity will hold AJ in their hearts forever.

The Jacksons would like to thank the Johnell McClain and Kim Herring families as well as the members of the River Parish Golf Association for their loving, uplifting support in Louisiana. We extend our deepest gratitude to AJ’s lifelong friend Rufus Curry, Rodney Pitts, and members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated for honoring and celebrating your Brother in such a beautiful way.

 Relatives and Friends of the family are also invited to the Homegoing Services for Major Al Preston  Jackson, II, at 11:00am on Saturday, March 30, 2024 at Mount Herman AME Church, 401 NW 7th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311       

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