11/26/2025
Transition of Bishop Reginald Thomas Jackson (1954-2025)
It is with profound sorrow and deep reverence that we announce the transition of Bishop Reginald Thomas Jackson, the 132nd elected and consecrated bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and Presiding Prelate of the Second Episcopal District (Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and the District of Columbia). Bishop Jackson entered eternal rest on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
Bishop Jackson was elected and consecrated at the 49th Quadrennial Session of the General Conference in July 2012, held in Nashville, Tennessee. His episcopal assignments included service as Bishop of the Twentieth Episcopal District (Malawi, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Uganda), Ecumenical and Urban Affairs Officer of the AME Church, the Sixth Episcopal District (Georgia), and most recently, the Second Episcopal District.
A native of Dover, Delaware, Bishop Jackson’s ministry spanned more than five decades. He pastored faithfully at St. John AME Church in Jersey City, New Jersey, and for 31 years at St. Matthew AME Church in Orange, New Jersey, where the congregation grew into a vibrant community of more than 2,800 disciples. His leadership extended beyond the pulpit into education, civic engagement, and advocacy for justice. He served on boards of education and higher learning, led the Black Ministers Council of New Jersey, and was a tireless voice for equity in schools, healthcare, criminal justice, and voting rights.
During his episcopal tenure, Bishop Jackson’s vision and determination brought transformative change. He guided the Sixth District in retiring its debts, championed the reaccreditation of Morris Brown College, and advocated for the passage of Georgia’s Hate Crimes Legislation in 2020. His ministry embodied the AME Church’s commitment to faith, justice, and service.
Bishop Jackson was married to the late Christy Davis Jackson, Esq., and is the beloved father of Regina Victoria Jackson and Seth Joshua Jackson.
The African Methodist Episcopal Church honors Bishop Jackson’s extraordinary legacy of preaching, teaching, advocacy, and servant leadership. We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to his family, the Second Episcopal District, and all who mourn his passing.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)
Further details regarding final arrangements will be shared as they become available.
Bishop Silvester S. Beaman
President, Council of Bishops
