Charles Edward “Eddie” Jackson, Sr., age 70, born on January 30, 1945 and died on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 of a massive heart attack. Born in Sumter, South Carolina, he was the son of the late James Herbert and Florence Griffin Jackson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Jackson. He lived near Sumter in Horatio, South Carolina almost his entire life.

Surviving are two sons, Charles E. Jackson, Jr. of Horatio, South Carolina and Colonel William D. Jackson and his wife Rebecca of Huntsville, Alabama. He had one daughter, Shannon Jackson Alexander and her husband Brian of Columbia, South Carolina. He had one sister, Eleanor Justice of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He had four very special grandchildren. They are Camdyn and Lucas Jackson of Huntsville, Alabama and Declan and Lily Alexander of Columbia, South Carolina.

MANY attended his Visitation on Friday evening and service which was held on Saturday, June 13, 2015 at 11:00 AM in the Bullock Funeral Home Chapel in Sumter, South Carolina. Interment followed in the Bethesda Church Cemetery under a beautiful old tree.

He owned and operated Sugarberry Farms in Horatio, South Carolina. Eddie was a lifetime member of the American Quarter Horse Association and a well known horse and coon dog trainer and trained World Champions in both disciplines. He also trained mules and donkeys. Recently, he had been retired from the actual horse showing part of the business and was more focused on coon dog training and giving riding lessons.

He was best known for his relationship with people. He loved to help others. He was known to give great riding lessons in a way that were both enjoyable and easy to understand for his students. He called many of his students “Fred!” He was willing to share his wisdom on any subject including horse training with others. It was very common for other trainers to come ride with him or ask him questions. He was very charismatic and loved to tell stories. He also loved music, loved to shag, and was involved in a local shag club. One of his sayings included,” You only have room for one thing in your heart, Faith or Worry. You just have to pick the right one!”

Included is a few notes from those that loved him! “If you were his friend, he would be there for you. He seemed to know exactly what you needed to hear and would tell you!” “Eddie lived in a very real way every day!” Eddie was blessed with a way with horses and dogs but most importantly with people. We were all blessed with his wisdom, guidance, love, and laughter!” Eddie’s laugh was contagious and his goofiness could put anyone in a good mood!”

Eddie will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend!