Johnnie Bernard Jackson

Johnnie Bernard Jackson, affectionately known as "JB," "Johnnie B," and "Beaver," was born on September 28, 1951, in Savannah, Georgia, to the late Lewis Edward Jackson and Correne Jackson-Jackson. He was raised in Savannah and spent many summers in Clearwater, Florida, with his grandparents, Mary Austin-Armstead Harris (Shelton Harris). Johnnie was named after his uncle and godfather, John B. Brown, who helped raise him.

Johnnie was baptized as a child in the Holiness Church under Mother Franklin. Later in life, he converted to Islam and was given the name Abdullah Yahya' Bilal Shabazz.

His early education began at daycare at First Congregation Church of Savannah, followed by Second Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church. He attended Paulson Street School, F.W. Spencer Elementary School, and later graduated from Sol C. Johnson High School.

Following high school, Johnnie enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in the 1970s. He was stationed at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and later at Parris Island, South Carolina. After his early release from the military, he married Cynthia Chisholm, who preceded him in death.

Johnnie worked several jobs throughout his life, including with ILA (International Longshoremen's Association), Union Bag, KAMIRA, and Stone Container. He later retired early from Savannah State College, now Savannah State University, after 23 years of dedicated service as a service maintenance worker and bus operator. One of his greatest joys was driving athletic teams and faculty to their various events.

Beaver enjoyed shooting pool, dancing, and playing chess. He grew up in Hitch Village, where he formed many lifelong friendships, and he also frequently spent time in the Crawford neighborhood.

During his hospitalization, his sister Tonya led him back to God, and he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Johnnie Bernard Jackson was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis Edward Jackson and Correne Jackson-Jackson; his uncle and aunt, John B. and Annie Mae Brown; his paternal grandparents, Marie Austin-Armstead Harris, Shelton Harris, and Easter Brown-Jackson; his siblings, Lewis Edward Jackson, Jr., Carolyn Fields Chester, Donna Antoinette Jackson, and Michael Edmond Jackson; his niece Nakia Scriven; his nephew Donovan Mikell; and his great-grandson, Logan Patton.

He leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Mildred Jackson; his sons Unricka Antonia Jenkins (Michaud Dufauchard), Kevin Chisholm, and Michael Graham; his daughters Javon "Somon" Mikell-Roberson (Sherrod), Articia Brown-Evans, and Katherine Brown; a special grandson whom he raised, Jayden Brown; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Tycious Lawrence-Williams.

Johnnie is also survived by his sister Tonya J. Morgan (Frank); three favorite nieces Maria Jallow, Teresa Scriven, and Stephanie Scriven; four nephews Solomon Jackson, Michael Stokes, Theodore Scriven, Jr., and Brandon Jackson; his niece Vanisa Jackson; and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

Johnnie B will be remembered for his strength, straightforwardness, and deep love for his family and friends.

Funeral Services for Mr. Johnnie B. Jackson will be held at 12PM, Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Dunham Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, 544 Nicholl Street, Savannah, GA 31401. The family will receive visitors from 10AM - Noon at the church. The pastor, Rev. Christopher Johnson will officiate.

Burial will follow in Woodville Cemetery.

Please keep the family of Mr. Johnnie Bernard Jackson in your thoughts and prayers during their time of bereavement.

Matthew H. Lovett & Son's Funeral Home, LLC is in charge of final arrangements.

Family and friends may sign the online register book, express online condolences, send flowers or other memorial gifts via our website.