Samuel Lewis Jackson Jr.

May 6, 1937 - January 16, 2026

May 6, 1937 — January 16, 2026

Samuel Lewis Jackson Jr. was a man of beautiful contradictions: a powerful man who wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable, and a disciplined person who always found a way to keep a playful sense of humor. Sam passed away peacefully at age 88 on January 16, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was the ultimate “girl dad” and a role model to his son—he possessed a physical might matched only by his rare gift to make anyone smile.

A Life of Drive and Resilience: Born in the coal-mining town of Slab Fork, West Virginia, Sam was the seventh child of Samuel Jackson Sr. and Flossie Virginia (Spinner) Jackson. His resilience was forged early; after losing his mother at the age of 15, he was entrusted with cooking for the family—a responsibility that sparked a lifelong talent. Relocating to Maine as a teenager to find himself in a state with very few Black people, Sam met the challenges of being “the first” with a relentless optimism. He turned his talent for cooking into a cornerstone of his community as a co-owner of Chicken City and Chicken of Maine in Auburn. His delicious chicken and family recipes were served with the same quiet pride he brought to his 25-year career at Tambrands Inc. as a maintenance worker.

A Legacy of Determination: Sam was a man of perpetual motion. A competitive bodybuilder in the 1980s, his natural tenacity led him to a third-place finish in the Mr. Maine competition—a physique built through years of disciplined home and local gym sessions. Even into his final days, Sam inspired others with his vitality, whether walking the dog or completing a set of push-ups.

His most notable feat of determination came at age 62 when he applied to be a volunteer firefighter in Turner. Seeing his application, the department assumed his age was a typo and that he was actually 26. He quickly erased any doubt by outperforming men forty years his junior on the fitness test. His fellow firefighters called him “Sammy,” a nickname first given to him in childhood and affectionately revived during his service.

Faith and Fellowship: While Sam was modest about his faith, his life was defined by service. He served as a Deacon of the Leeds Community Church and as the Chaplain for the Turner Fire Department. On weekends, you could find Sam volunteering his time at the clothing center, food bank, or fundraising. He came from a family of faith that produced two pastors, and Sam carried that legacy in his voice. He was frequently asked to sing at the funerals of loved ones, where his beautiful renditions of “It Is Well With My Soul” and “How Great Thou Art” provided comfort to many

A Magnetic Spirit: Sam was naturally sharp-witted and possessed a playful energy that made him welcome in any circle. He thrived in conversation, yet he also deeply cherished his quiet pleasures. An avid lover of music, Sam spent many peaceful hours playing for himself, finding a private joy in the melodies he created. He felt that same peace in the outdoors, often spending weekends with his best friend, Skip Douglas. Whether they were hunting, fishing, or attending family outings, their brotherhood was steadfast. When Sam finally slowed down, he was most often found in his favorite recliner—”resting his eyes” while keeping up with movies and sports.

The Ultimate Father: Sam’s greatest joy was his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He had the unique gift of making every one of them feel like “the favorite.” He delighted in the freedom of his first cell phone, calling his kids from anywhere, just to check in, and in later years, he deeply cherished weekly Zoom calls with the family. In his final hours, his family sang back to him those same hymns he had used to comfort others throughout his life.

Sam is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Annette Jackson, his life partner and greatest support. His legacy continues through his children: Virgie Jackson-Wright, Kathleen Jackson, Tammy Jackson, and the late Michael Jackson, all whom he shared with Dana; and Valerie Jackson Goode (Elbert) and Alicia Jackson Siry (Gaetan). Affectionately known as “Grandad,” he took immense pride in his twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, each one a lasting reminder of the love he leaves behind.

One of the last of an iconic generation, he is survived by his brother Andrew Jackson and his wife Gayle. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Sr. and Flossie, and ten siblings: Phillip, Thelma, Nellie, Marshall, Floyd, Daniel, Isaac, Albert, Helen, and Kenneth.

Services: A celebration of life will be held in Maine in the summer of 2026. To honor Sam’s spirit of service, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (https://alzfdn.org/donate/).

May 6, 1937 — January 16, 2026 Samuel Lewis Jackson Jr. was a man of beautiful contradictions: a powerful man who wasn’t afraid to be vulnerable, and a disciplined person who always found a way to keep a playful sense of humor. Sam passed away peacefully at age 88 on January 16, 2026, surrounded byContinue Reading

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It is with great sadness that I read of Sam's passing. I worked with Sam at Tambrands in Auburn until he retired. The first day of my employ at Tampax Sam was the first person I met at the plant. He welcomed me like I was an old friend he hadn't seen in years. This brought great joy to me as this change in my life was not an easy one..................starting at a new Facility after working in a paper mill that unfortunately was closing. I got to know Sam really well as we worked together. He was always quick with wit and friendly to all who knew him. He was truly a joy to have around. Though Sam was a lot older then I was it was hard to believe his age. Never have I seen a person Sam's age so strong and vibrant. I became Sam's supervisor at a later point in our working years. I always wished I had just stayed working as part of the guys. If I had it to do again I would have let that part of my working career as it separated me from the people I truly loved working with hand in hand every day. Though there were some tough times making decisions about work that the guys didn't understand as we were being pushed to do more with a lot less I never lost my love for Sam's great spirit and love for people. He truly epitomized the way people should live and be treated in life. He was a wonderful man and great family person. Though he left this area after retiring his spirit and love for everyone he worked with was always still felt in our hearts though he was no longer here with us all. That will be carried with everyone he ever met as he sits with Christ Jesus today.....along with the rest of his wonderful family that have passed from this place to all eternity. Maine was granted something special the day Samuel Jackson arrived here!! My condolences to Sam's entire family!! Mark

Grandad always knew how to put a smile on his grandchildren’s faces. He had a gift for turning the ordinary into something joyful. His positivity was truly his superpower- rooted in understanding, kindness, and an infectious sense of joy. We are all so lucky to love you, now and always.

I have few memories of Maine before we moved to Ohio, but Ill never ever forget my Uncle Sammy. I knew him and he knew me. I love you Uncle.

My condolences to his family. I remember Mr.Jackson’s warmth and kindness the few times I met him. It’s the same warmth and kindness that he passed on to his children. His light lives on in them. May he be at peace. 🕊️🕯️

Sam will be missed. The world was a better place with him in it. So glad he doesn’t have to know the horrendous shape that we are in! He was kind, loving, always willing to listen when I needed to be heard. He was courageous at times especially when he visited the homeless in a State where he knew no one. Always had time to visit and spread hope. Always interested in how David and I were doing and how our kids were doing. Took time out of his busy day to make fried chicken for our son his nephew. He never bragged about himself and had a hard time accepting praise. Very hard worker. I hope he knew how much he was loved by me and my family. Rest in Peace.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

My most sincere condolences to close family and friends. Uncle Sam was a man of genuine character and morals and always looked out for those he held close. I will always be grateful to have had the blessing to call him my uncle

Rest in peace uncle Sammy. RIP uncle Sammy. I will miss you.

But I was his favorite niece!! Beautiful tribute to a man well loved by all who knew him. Peace be with you, Aunt Annette. Love you 😘 —Amper Dawn

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.