Willie Joe "Ralph" Jackson

Willie Joe Jackson, also known as Ralph, passed away on December 30, 2023, at the age of seventy-three in Lorain, Ohio following a brief illness. He was also known as “Munchkin” or “LJ” (Little Jack, his old CB handle). Born to the late Amos Lee Sr and Mattie Jackson on August 21, 1950, in Montgomery, Alabama, Ralph was a beloved husband, father, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ralph was a fun-loving individual who enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He had a knack for storytelling and his sense of humor was unmatched. No one was safe from his impish storytelling. When he entered the room, everyone knew what was about to go down. In his younger days, Ralph was an avid guitarist and drum player, often performing with various bands in the community. He was even once asked to play with the Jackson Five band before they rose to fame. Ralph's technological skills were exceptional. He had the ability to build transistor radios and televisions, which eventually led him to become a computer expert in this 21st century. He loved technology and had a vast collection of electronic devices and equipment. However, his most cherished pastime was riding his motorcycle throughout Lorain County.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Lillian Taunya (nee Lee), his mother, Mattie Jackson, of Oberlin, daughter Monique, of Lorain, and sons; Willie Jr (Nikki), of Lorain and Ralph Moye, of Lorain. He is also survived by his stepdaughters; Marauda (Rodney) Rice, of Lithonia, Georgia, Janovough Gaddy, of Georgia, Niya Gaddy Jones, of Lorain, stepsons; Isaiah Harris, of Richland, Ohio and Willie Gaddy, of Lorain as well as seventeen grandchildren and twenty-three great grandchildren. Ralph’s sisters; Annette (Rod) Allen, of Las Vegas, and Laurie Anne Wilson (Kevin), of Lorain and his brothers; Amos Jr, of Lorain, Clyde (Carletta), of Lorain, Joseph, of Oberlin, Marvin (Sylvia), of Oberlin, Michael (Antonitte), of Oberlin, Lloyd, of Louisville, Ky, and Gerald (Teresa), of Las Vegas also mourn his loss. Ralph was preceded in death by his father, Amos Lee Jackson Sr, his sister Valerie Anne, and his brothers David, Freddy, and Mark Jackson. Ralph's grandparents: George and Maggie Jackson, Hanna (Robert) Washington and William Joe Hammond also preceded him in death.

Ralph attended Lorain City Schools where he later graduated from Admiral King High School. He began his career at the Ford Motor Company Lorain plant, as an assembly member where he worked until his retirement in 1997. In his free time, Ralph enjoyed music, watching sports and movies, while also exploring the latest advancements in computers and technology. He embraced moments spent with his family and friends, creating lasting memories.

A memorial service to celebrate Ralph's life will be held Saturday, January 13, 2024. The viewing will be at 10:00 am and Service will begin at 11:00 am at the Russia Township Hall, Oberlin, Ohio. Burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery in Lorain