Rev. Jesse Jackson Dies at 84

Rev. Jesse Jackson died on the morning of Tuesday, Feb. 17, at age 84, three months after being hospitalized with a rare brain disease.

While a cause of death has not been disclosed, Jackson had been hospitalized last November with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare brain disease. (Photo: Reverend Jesse Jackson Facebook)

According to a statement from his family, the longtime activist and former presidential candidate passed away peacefully at home in Chicago, surrounded by loved ones, Jane LaCroix reported for Parade.

“His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity,” his family said in a Facebook post, describing Jackson as a “tireless change agent” who left “an indelible mark on history.”

The family added: “Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world. We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by.”

While a cause of death has not been disclosed, Jackson had been hospitalized last November with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare brain disease.

“He was originally diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease; however, last April, his PSP condition was confirmed. The family appreciates all prayers at this time,” his relatives previously shared.

Born in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson rose to national prominence as a protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In the early 1970s, he founded Operation PUSH in Chicago and later launched the National Rainbow Coalition in 1984.

The two organizations merged in 1996, expanding their focus to include women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights.