Eddie Lee Jackson, Sr., the son of Aaron Jackson and Fannie Mae Jackson, was born on July 14, 1949 in Canalou, Missouri. He spent the first few years of his life in Gary, Indiana. After the death of his father, the family moved to East St. Louis, Illinois.

Eddie received his primary and secondary education from School District 189 where he attended Monroe Elementary School, Rock Junior High School, and East St. Louis Senior High School. After graduating from East St. Louis Senior High School in 1967, he later married Pearlie Mae Rich in October 1969. Together, Eddie and Pearlie had two children – Eddie Lee Jackson, Jr. and Emeka Jackson-Hicks. While growing his family, Eddie attended SIU-Edwardsville where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of City Planning degrees. Eddie became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. while attending SIU-Edwardsville. He was a proud Kappa for more than 50 years. Eddie also was a member of Joppa Lodge #79 Prince Hall Masons State of Illinois.

Eddie started his political career in East St. Louis in the early 70s and served on the East St. Louis City Council for more than 30 years. After retiring as an educator, Eddie served in the Illinois House of Representatives for 8 years (2009 – 2017) representing the 114th District.
His accomplishments as an educator, community leader, and political leader are too many to properly list. While serving as the principal of A.M. Jackson Math and Science Academy, students and parents admired him. Many of the students and parents that witnessed his leadership as principal at A.M. Jackson Math and Science Academy still talk about the influence that he had in their lives.

Eddie attended Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church where Pastor Cornell Brown served as his pastor. Eddie continued to support the mission of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist church until his untimely passing.

Eddie leaves to cherish his memories, a loving wife and companion, Pearlie Jackson. Two children, Eddie (Shantell) Jackson, Jr. and Emeka (Demarius) Jackson-Hicks. Eddie also leaves a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Eddie was preceded in death by his mother – Fannie Mae Jackson, father – Aaron Jackson, sister- Bernice Vales, grandson – Tramell Jackson and granddaughter – Andersen Elise Hicks.

Eddie will be sorely missed in East St. Louis and never replaced. He was one of a kind.