Stephen Kent Jackson
January 15, 1945 - July 8, 2026
Stephen Kent Jackson passed away on 7/8/2026 in Stockton CA after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Annapolis Maryland on 1/15/1945 and moved to Stockton CA in 1955.
Stephen was a veteran of the Vietnam war serving in the Army. He married Susan Simmons in 1966 just 3 days before shipping out to Vietnam. Upon his return he and Susan had 2 children they raised in Manteca CA. Both were involved in their children’s after school activities such as Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and Band. On many weekends in the 1980s they could be found at high school band reviews and became parents to more than just their own children.
Stephen found joy in his second marriage with Sharon Ryan and added 2 grown stepchildren to the family. Family filled his life with daily activities, holiday celebrations and vacations such a memorable trip to New York City in 2010.
Stephen spent 34 years working for the California Department of Corrections working primarily at Duel Vocational Institution in Tracy CA.
He enjoyed woodworking, home remodeling and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. He could always be counted on to lend a hand with anything anyone needed. His advice on all matters of life will be cherished by all that knew him.
He is survived by his children Shannon Elmlinger (Doug), Stuart Jackson and stepdaughter Michelle Hernandez (Richie). Grand-children Kieran Jackson, Mando Canez, Michael Canez, Jacob Sigman and Sara Gallagher-Metcalf (family by love). Great-grandchildren Noah Canez and Jace Sigman. Nieces Jocelyn Beauregard, Heather Barnes and Meghan Johnson.
Stephen is predeceased by his mother Nadene Esposeto, stepfather Daniel Esposeto and his younger brother Robert Jackson.
By his request, no funeral will be held, there will be a small family gathering at his home.
In lieu of flowers please make any donations to the American Cancer society.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Jackson family.
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