Ronald Lee Jackson

career, he directed the San Francisco Police Academy, a role that was especially meaningful to him, given his love for teaching others respect and leadership.

As impressive as his career was, Ron would tell anyone who asked that his greatest life achievement was his family. He always said about Del “everything she touches turns to gold”. His wife Delia was his pride and joy; you can count on one hand how many nights they spent apart. He also happily served as her personal chauffeur and listening ear; given she never drove. Married for 68 years, Ron and his wife Delia had six children together.

They moved out of San Francisco in 1966 and raised their family in Pinole, California. Although often rambunctious and boisterous, Ron and Del ran a household full of unconditional love that still rings true to this day. Whether it be watching the 49ers games with his family, or baking Christmas cookies every year with Del, Ron truly loved being surrounded by his wife and kids. Ron became a grandfather in 1980 and went on to have 17 grandchildren. Ron held the same standard of love as his family grew, and continued to celebrate family in every way he knew how.

He shared his loving demeanor with not only his family, but many friends, neighbors, and colleagues throughout his life. Many have called Ron the kindest, most non-judgmental man they’ve ever met. He shared genuine conversations about life and relationships with many.

Along with raising six children, Ron and Delia bred Malamutes and Bullmastiffs for over 50 years, raising 15 as their own. Ron could often be found with his dogs in the back of his Volvo station wagon playing classical music, or slipping them his dinner crumbs under the table.

Ron’s love for sweets started at a young age as a See’s Candy cook, and continued into his old age, where he could be found hiding behind the refrigerator door eating spoonfuls of homemade jam. He also never failed to have cartons of sporadic assortments of ice cream flavors readily available.

Survived by his loving wife and best friend of 68 years, Delia, their children Ronnie (Julie), Gilbert (Stacy), Yvonne (Dana), Dave (Genie), Raymond (Cindy), and Candida (Dave), 17 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and his sister Bobby. Ronald is predeceased by his parents Lily and Ronald (Moose) Jackson.

In the words of Mate: “I’m the richest man in the world-what I have, money can’t buy”