Elmer C Jackson

Life Reflections of Elmer C. Jackson, III

Elmer Carter Jackson, III, husband, father, grandfather, family member and friend, transitioned from his earthly home to be with the Lord in his heavenly home on September 18, 2020.  He was born on May 30, 1940 to Elmer Carter Jackson, Jr. and Lucile Victoria (Wright), Jackson, both deceased.

Elmer was educated in the Kansas City, KS school system and graduated from Sumner High School in 1958.  He graduated from the University of Kansas in 1962, with a degree in Criminal Justice.

Elmer began his professional career at General Motors Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, KS.  Elmer continually made his mark in the Human Resource Management area, both within and beyond General Motors.  When Elmer became Personnel Director at the General Motors Assembly Division Plant in Detroit in 1972, he was the first African American to hold that position at General Motors.

Elmer was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and Sigma Pi Phi (Theta Boule), Fraternity, Incorporated.

After 38 years of service with many accomplishments and accolades, Elmer retired from General Motors.   He continued to enjoy retired life with his wife LaVella, traveling, spending time with their grandsons, watching KU Basketball, listening to and collecting jazz music (his absolute favorite) and being a model railroader.

An eloquent speaker, Elmer was invited to address numerous audiences nationally and globally.  Those speaking engagements included the countries of South Africa, England, Portugal and Germany.  Elmer delivered the commencement address at Central Michigan University in 1995, where he received an Honorary Doctorate degree in Public Service.

True to the gentleman he was, Elmer left a positive mark on all that met him.  His charisma and charm was like no other.  Elmer was a mentor, teacher, and a friend to all.  He loved life to the fullest and always greeted you with a smile.  Elmer was a faithful member of Mt. Carmel Church of God in Christ where he served as the Chairman of the Board for the Mt. Carmel Redevelopment Corporation.

Elmer leaves to cherish his memory:  his wife of 57 years, LaVella; daughter, Kelly of Peachtree City, GA, son-in-law, Elliott; grandsons, Jordan and Camerin; nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

Elmer’s favorite scripture that is right by his computer in his home office reads:

For with God nothing shall be impossible.  Luke 1:37

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mt. Carmel Redevelopment Center, 1130 Troup Avenue Kansas City, KS 66104

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