Florida A&M University is mourning the death of Sports Hall of Famer, Eddie Jackson. The FAMU alum passed away Monday at the age of 86 after a 4-year bout with cancer.
“FAMU lost a loyal son and one of its strongest and most effective advocates," FAMU President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., said.
We are saddened to hear about the passing of the President of the 220 Quarterback Club and FAMU Sports Hall of Famer, Eddie Jackson.
— Florida A&M Athletics (@FAMUAthletics) June 4, 2024
Jackson will be deeply missed by many.
📰 https://t.co/ZQ4rt9KtuY#FAMU | #FAMUly | #Rattlers | #FangsUp 🐍 pic.twitter.com/xsQ8NSw4Lh
Jackson held many positions while at FAMU, including sports information director under the legendary football coach Alonzo “Jake” Gaither. Jackson served as the university’s chief spokesman in the late 80s, and Vice President of University Relations.
"Eddie Jackson loved FAMU and FAMU loved him back," said Robinson. "His wit is legendary, often bringing down the house with laughter. On behalf of the entire Rattler community, I extend my most deepest sympathy to his wife Jerrlyne and the rest of his family."
This one hurts!!! I’ve never told anyone this but my wife, but I only cried once when I talked to someone about leaving FAMU and that was when I called Eddie Jackson. I’ve often said there’s no such thing as a die-hard Rattler because every Rattler loves FAMU to death, but if I… pic.twitter.com/Qfs5RV8Pwm
— Coach Willie Simmons (@HCWillieSimmons) June 4, 2024
After retirement, Jackson founded FAMU’s 220 Quarterback Club to raise money for the school’s athletic programs. His club has donated over $200,000 to the university and is one of the largest donor groups at FAMU.
The Rattlers welcomed Jackson into its Sports Hall of Fame in 2008.