Michael Jackson

Michael “Mike” Jay Jackson , 77, of Cypress, Texas, was reunited with his parents, brothers and the Holy Father in Heaven on February 13, 2020. He passed in the comfort of his home surrounded by his wife, his two sons and his dogs. Mike is survived by his wife Mary Ellen of 44 years, sons Edward “Ted” Michael and Scott Clifford (Lacy), and many nieces and nephews and their children. Mike was born in Kansas City, Missouri and baptized at Saint Francis of Assis Catholic Church in Kansas City, Missouri. As a child his family moved to Southern California where he grew up and spent most of his life. He attended Saint Cecilia Catholic School, Loyola High School and LA High School in Los Angeles, California and finished his education at the University of San Diego where he played the position of center on the USD Toreros basketball team. He was an athlete whose love for competitive team sports drove his early years, eventually he became most dedicated to playing basketball and golf over the course of his life. As a sports fan, Mike’s attention was just as diverse, his life-long favorite teams were the Los Angeles Lakers and the New York Yankees. Mike was a respected leader in the textile marketing industry who was known for mentoring new talent and building lasting business relationships which left him with many life-long friendships. With the support of his wife and colleague Mary at his side, he built Texline Marketing Company , then later expanded the hook and loop market working at Velcro . Finally, Mike completed his career by partnering with long-time associates at Directex , where his son Scott has proudly carried on his legacy. He also took a keen interest in politics throughout his life, he was civically engaged in his early adult years, and Mike was always ready to engage in a lively political discussion. His son Ted has continued this spirit as a national political operative in politics today. Family was a high priority for Mike Jackson, as a dedicated son he spent time weekly with each of his parents until their passing. He passed on this dedication to “his boys:” putting together train sets with Ted as child, then sharing an interest in movies and their shared life-long pursuit to find the perfect taco; and with a young Scott collecting baseball cards, then teaching him to play golf and mentoring him into business. Together, Mike and Mary built a home and shared their love for dogs and perfected the staycation, Mike was most at peace when Mary was at his side. His family would like to express a special thank you to the staff at Traditions Health Hospice for their support and care for Mike and them, ensuring dignity in the final days of his great life. An 11:00 Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 7, at St. John Lutheran Church, 15235 Spring Cypress Rd., Cypress, TX 77429. In lieu of flowers - ask a family member about donations to organizations.