Jay Norman Jackson passed at his own home peacefully from this life and went home to be with his Lord and Savior Nov. 22, 2011, after a long battle with Scleroderma, an autoimmune disease producing inflammation and an overproduction of collagen.

Jay was born Mar.10, 1958 in Massillon, Ohio. He is survived by loving parents Norm and Joanne Jackson of Massillon, Brothers Tom and Sherrie Jackson of North Canton, Sam and Fran Jackson of Dalton, Scott Jackson of Put-In -Bay and Keystone, Colorado; Sister Chris and Mike Vellucci of Massillon; Nieces and Nephews Erica, Derek, Elle and Samantha Jackson, Aimee, Zach and great-niece Frances Hamity, John, Leah and Joey Jackson, Jake, Seth and Michael Vellucci; And his Girl and Best Friend, the former Debbie Kring of Massillon.

Jay graduated from Massillon St. Mary's Grade School and Central Catholic High School. In 1975, he was co-captain of Central's League Champion Football Team and Division I All County Linebacker. He later attended and played football for Baldwin Wallace College. After college, Jay entered the transportation field, most recently capped off a 20-year career with Carney-McNicholas, formerly of North Canton, and now located in Lorain, Ohio.

He loved his Sales & Marketing position and the people with whom he worked. Most importantly, he loved the dear Lord, his parents, family and friends. Jay was a people person and loved life to the fullest. His favorite time was spent at house parties with family and friends. And, a close second was vacations at or near the beach.

A personal message from Jay:
'Did I mention that an ice cold beer was a part of this good life? Believe you me, it's no fun if you don't have someone to share your good times with. I was lucky because I always did. I can't imagine better people than those who have surrounded me. With the dear Lord's and Jesus help, I have been allowed to go Full Go and to Lead a Great Life. A special thanks to all that have helped me during my illness. That includes the wonderful doctors, nurses and medical personnel that have kept me alive. And to my Family and Friends that gave me the will to survive, and the ability to Love Life. Now I can say for the last time that I'd Like to Stay but I've Got to Go. Throttle Down! God Bless You All... Love, Jay.'

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Scleroderma Research Foundation, 220 Montgomery St., San Francisco, CA. 94104 or Salvation Army, 420 Market Ave. S, Canton, Ohio 44702.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Dec. 3, 2011 at 12 Noon at St. Mary's Church in Massillon, a wake immediately following at 1 PM at the K of C Hall on Cherry Street in Massillon. All Family and Friends are welcome.

Please leave condolences at Heitger.com

HEITGER JACKSON 330-830-0148