Senate Resolution No. 1282
BY: Senator HARCKHAM
MOURNING the death of Richard Jackson Jr., former
Peekskill mayor and distinguished member of his
community
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Richard Jackson Jr. of Peekskill, New York, died on Sunday,
August 10, 2025, at the age of 80; and
WHEREAS, Born to the late Reverends Richard and Willma McKenzie
Jackson, Richard Jackson Jr. was a lifelong mathematics educator,
inspiring students over the course of generations; and
WHEREAS, Richard Jackson Jr. graduated from the University of
Bridgeport and earned a master's degree from Fordham University; and
WHEREAS, Richard Jackson Jr. married the love of his life, Ruth-a
music teacher and gifted pianist-with whom he had four children; the
loving couple were married for almost 54 years before Ruth's passing in
June of 2023; and
WHEREAS, With a joy for life and service to others, Richard Jackson
Jr. found a calling in public service and became the mayor of Peekskill
in 1984 and won subsequent elections, serving in this capacity until
1991; and
WHEREAS, New York State Governor George Pataki- a friend and
longtime professional counterpart-later appointed Richard Jackson Jr.
as Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles in
1995, where he dutifully fulfilled the obligations of this role for five
years; and
WHEREAS, A devoted Christian, Richard Jackson Jr. lived his beliefs
through action, helping to transform the churches he served, guiding
Bible studies, and offering quiet counsel; his words always reflected a
steady, abiding faith and a conviction in the power of love and
community; and
WHEREAS, Richard Jackson Jr. distinguished himself in his profession
and by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the
welfare of his community; and
WHEREAS, An exceptionally dedicated citizen, Richard Jackson Jr. is
also remembered for his impact on the Peekskill St. Patrick's Parade; he
was known for supporting a $500 grant to help jump-start the parade
approved by the Common Council; and
WHEREAS, Richard Jackson Jr.'s commitment to excellence and spirit
of humanity carried over into all fields of enterprise, including
charitable and civic endeavors; and
WHEREAS, Richard Jackson Jr. is survived by his four children, Tara
(William), Alice (Frank Jolley), Abigail (Dominick Martin), and William
(Chris); six grandchildren; his sister, Janet Bowles; and many nieces,
nephews, and cousins; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Richard Jackson Jr. leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Richard Jackson Jr.; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Richard Jackson Jr.
