Rev. Dr. Everett “Ev” Jackson, retired pastor, associate professor at North Park Theological Seminary and chaplain for Swedish Covenant Hospital in Chicago, died January 25 in Wilmette, Illinois. He was 89.
Everett was born on November 10, 1933, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended Chicago Vocational High School and eventually served with distinction in the United States Army. On November 7, 1965, he married Joyce Robinson in Robbins, Illinois.
Everett earned a bachelor’s degree in general studies from Roosevelt University, where he was honored during the commencement exercise for his diligence and perseverance. Later he earned a master of science in secondary and adult education and a certificate of advanced study from Northern Illinois University, a master’s of divinity from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, and doctor of divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary.
He was first ordained through the Church of God of Anderson, Indiana, and served churches in Lynwood and Freeport, Illinois. During that time he helped establish a new building for the church in Freeport, directed a community youth center, and both taught and served as director of adult basic education and community services for Highland Community College.
Later, he transferred his ordination to the Evangelical Covenant Church, attending Winnetka (Illinois) Covenant Church and serving as chaplain for St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, Illinois. He joined the faculty of North Park Seminary as associate professor and also practiced pastoral care as chaplain for Swedish Covenant Hospital.
Everett wrote many articles, was featured in several books, and pastored, taught, and mentored countless people over the course of his life, including many stints as guest preacher and lecturer. He and Joyce traveled extensively, teaching and ministering in Israel, Russia, and various countries in Africa and South America.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce; niece Roshanda Humphrey, and many close relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mamie Barnes, mother-in-law Pelzona Robinson, and niece Toni Barnes.
He was buried with honors at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois. A memorial in his honor will be held on the campus of North Park University during the spring of 2022.
Peace be to his memory.
