Senate Resolution 14

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING PAUL JACKSON OF BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI, THE DAILY LEADER'S CITIZEN OF THE YEAR.

WHEREAS, Paul Jackson's passion for Brookhaven, Mississippi, and his efforts to make it a better place have earned him the honor of being "The Daily Leader's Citizen of the Year." Those close to him say he is truly deserving; and

WHEREAS, born and raised in Brookhaven, Jackson grew up the son of a bricklayer. He spent his early years learning about construction from his father, Lucius, and studying the architecture of Brookhaven. His mother was Beatrice Jackson; and

WHEREAS, in 1943, he graduated from Brookhaven High School and was drafted into the Army that same year. He served in Europe during World War II; and

WHEREAS, in his military tenure, he served as a light machine gunner in the European Theatre. He also participated in the campaigns at Normandy, Northern France and the Ardennes. He was discharged in 1946 with a Bronze Star as a token of his gallant service; and

WHEREAS, when he returned home, he went to Whitworth College from 1947-1948, married Charlotte Warren and also worked with his father in bricklaying; and

WHEREAS, in 1953, he started his own construction company on the prompting of his father, who encouraged his son to follow in his footsteps and stay in the field. In its beginnings, the business included only a Ford pickup truck and a wheelbarrow; and

WHEREAS, Jackson's first contract job was building a little grocery store on Brookhaven's Washington Street. From there, Jackson went out to bid for work. When he didn't get general contracting orders, he did masonry projects. He did what he could to make a living since the war slowed construction activity; and

WHEREAS, in the 1950's and 1960's, construction picked up, and Jackson started collaborating with Moreton and Pell, one of the major contractors during that time; and

WHEREAS, around this time, his two children, Jennifer and Paul W., were born; and

WHEREAS, Jackson's construction company incorporated in 1979, one year before his pinnacle co-purchase of the Inez Hotel in 1980. Jackson and the late John W. "Dub" Sproles, along with several other investors, bought "The Inez" from Mississippi College. D.A. Biglane, who had bought "The Inez" in 1945, had donated the building to the school in 1974. The renovation began on December 20, 1986. Real Estate Agent Betsy Smith helped with plans and Jean Rose Smith became "The Inez" apartment's first tenant on July 17, 1987. Residents say Jackson will forever be recognized for his efforts at "The Inez"; and

WHEREAS, his love for and dedication to preserving the history of Brookhaven in many ways goes unsung; and

WHEREAS, Jackson also played a part in preserving the Whitworth College campus, which has become the Mississippi School of the Arts, and transforming the old railroad depot into a military museum for veterans; and

WHEREAS, in 1996, Jackson officially turned his construction company over to his son, who has been working with him since 1979. His son said his father's work ethics and character have been as solid as the buildings he has constructed; and

WHEREAS, family is very important to the 79-year-old retired businessman. He and his wife have three grandchildren, Lindsey and Carly Whittier and John Paul Jackson, whom they love being around. Next to his family, church and serving others are top priorities for Jackson. He has been a Deacon at First Baptist Church since the late 1950's, and frequently visits the sick in hospitals and nursing homes; and

WHEREAS, although Paul Jackson may not have sought recognition for his efforts, the City of Brookhaven has noticed and appreciated what he has done, and the State of Mississippi also recognizes his civic contributions to his community and to his state:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Paul Jackson of Brookhaven, Mississippi, "The Daily Leader's Citizen of the Year," and extend to him and his family the best wishes of the Senate on his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Paul Jackson and his family and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.