Michael D. Jackson

Michael D. Jackson, 68, of Beckley, West Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and loved ones. Born on June 11, 1957, he was the beloved son of the late Georgeann and Samuel Jackson.

A proud graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School’s Class of 1975, Mike went on to earn his degree from West Virginia University in 1979. He dedicated much of his life to education, serving the Raleigh County Board of Education from 1996 until his retirement in 2020. Over the course of those twenty-four years, he touched countless lives with his guidance, patience, and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues. Mike approached each day in the classroom with integrity and compassion, leaving a lasting impact on all who learned from him.

Beyond his work in education, Mike lived a life fueled by adventure and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. For two decades, he served as a whitewater rafting guide with Mountain River Tours and Adventures on the Gorge. He cherished the river—the thrill of the rapids, the beauty of the landscape, and the friendships formed in wild and quiet places alike.

Mike was a dedicated sports enthusiast. He rarely missed a game, and nothing brought out his competitive spirit quite like cheering on his favorite team - the Pittsburgh Steelers. Whether watching from home or discussing the latest plays with friends and family, Mike’s loyalty to the black and gold ran deep. He also loved watching his grandchildren play sports and would talk with them for hours about the game, stats and their mutual love of any sport. Sports were, for him, a way to connect, celebrate, and share joy with the people he loved.

Mike was also a lifelong lover of books. He read widely and voraciously, often reading over 20 books a month. Whether exploring history or diving into novels, he found comfort, joy, and inspiration in the written word. His love of reading was a defining part of who he was—an open door into his curious mind and generous spirit. Mike carried a love of learning throughout his life.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Georgeann and Samuel Jackson and by his siblings - Sam, David, and Jeanette.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 28 years, Deborah Jackson; his son, Ben Jackson (Alexis); and his stepchildren, Sarah Whitehurst (Ian) and Josh Proffitt (Christina Stover). Mike was a proud and adoring grandfather to Ethan, Audrey, Hunter, Rachelle, Avery, Noah, Lilah, Lily and Jaxon, each of whom brought immeasurable joy and pride into his life.

Mike is survived by his loving sister, Carol Morgan, his sister in-law Karen Ivey, brother in-law Roger Armentrout (Nancy Chambers) and by a large extended family of nieces and nephews who will forever carry his memory: Rebecca Morgan (H.K), Zach Armentrout (Charlee Fox), Kate Armentrout (Andrew Wagner), and Taz Armentrout (Jenna Perry).

Mike will be remembered for his gentle spirit, adventurous heart, and love of his family. He was a man who greeted the world with kindness, generosity, and an open heart. His legacy lives on in his loved ones, his students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In accordance with his wishes, no formal service will be held at this time. A celebration of Mike’s life will take place in the spring, when family and friends will gather to honor him and return his ashes to the New River—a place he loved deeply and called home in spirit.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tyreefuneralhome.com

The family of Michael D. Jackson is being cared for by Tyree Funeral Home, Mount Hope.