Lionel F. Jackson

Dr. Lionel F. Jackson, Jr., 65, of Virginia Beach, Virginia was born on June 13, 1956 and entered into heaven on January 13, 2022. He was born in Hartford, Connecticut to Doris Jackson and Lionel F. Jackson, Sr.  

Lionel grew up in Hartford with five siblings and two parents. He was the first of his family to receive a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut where he pledged the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. His entrepreneurial spirit brought him and his family to Virginia Beach, Virginia where he started Top Dog Inc. His local hot dog cart that operated in the Tidewater area.

His love for the community led him to pursue his career in education and started as a substitute teacher in Portsmouth Public Schools. His charismatic personality and strong leadership skills propelled him into School Administration. During this time, he also received his Masters of Education from Regent University. He served as Assistant Vice Principal at First Colonial High School, then assistant Principal at The Career Development Center. Lionel went on to receive his Doctorate of Education from Nova Southeastern University. He was a beloved Principal at Holland Elementary and Augusta Fells Savage Institute of Visual Arts. In his final role, he served as the Chief Deputy Director of Juvenile Education for the State of Virginia under Governor Bob McDonald. After retiring from education, he received his real estate license and was affiliated with World Class Realty in Virginia Beach.

Lionel dedicated his life to educating and uplifting youth and members of his community. He was a vital member of his church, New Jerusalem Ministries. He is survived by his wife of thirty-one years Karen McCleu Jackson, daughters Caira (Troy) Turner, Chelsea Jackson, and Cassie Jackson, grandsons; Christian, Bryce, and Declan as well as his Mother-in-Law Connie McCleu. Siblings Roy (Spanyuara) Jackson of Virginia Beach, VA, Arthur (Valerie) Jackson of Little Washington, NC, Brian Jackson of Virginia Beach, VA, Richard (Laura) Jackson of Canton, CT, and Felicia Jackson, of Alexandria, VA. He is loved by a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Jackson.

The legacy of Lionel’s life will be continued in those he touched. He will be dearly missed. 

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