Honoring Wallace “Jack” O’Neil Jackman: A Life of Leadership, Humor, and Heart
Wallace “Jack” O’Neil Jackman, former co-publisher of the Minneapolis Spokesman and St. Paul Recorder, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025. Jack’s legacy lives on through his commitment to community, journalism, and family. His Celebration of Life will take place November 14 in Saint Paul.
Sunrise: October 19, 1944 — Sunset: October 27, 2025
Wallace “Jack” O’Neal Jackman, fondly known as Jackie or Jack, peacefully passed away on October 27, 2025.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, and moving to Minnesota at the age of 13, Jack grew up in a family whose roots ran deep in community and service. He was the beloved son of Launa Quincy (Jackman) Newman and Wallace O’Neal Jackman, and was lovingly guided by Cecil E. Newman, who became a father figure in his life. This bond later inspired Jack to become co-publisher of the Minneapolis Spokesman and St. Paul Recorder, now the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR). Throughout his life, he carried a steadfast belief in the power of truth, justice, community, and storytelling, values that became the compass for his journey.
A man of principle and purpose, Jack lived anchored in kindness, hard work, and a conviction that people are always worth investing in. His career was marked by excellence, mentorship, and service. Whether contributing to publishing, supporting civic causes, or uplifting those around him, Jack was known for showing up, ready to help, ready to lead, and ready to make a difference. A lifelong people person, he loved to drive, travel, and strike up conversations wherever the road took him.
Those who knew him best will remember his quick wit and signature “Jack-isms,” sharp one-liners that could ease tension or fill a room with laughter. He had a gift for turning strangers into friends and reminding everyone that life’s challenges are easier to face with good humor and good people.
Beyond his work and words, Jack’s greatest joy was his family. He poured his heart into his loved ones, his friends, and his community, always the first to offer wisdom and the one everyone could count on. His influence endures through generations who carry forward his lessons of integrity, humility, and compassion.
Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Launa Q. Newman and Wallace O’Neal Jackman; Cecil E. Newman; his beloved wife, Lynda D. Jackman; and his sister, Norma Jean Williams. He is survived by his children, Dauhn J. Jackman, Thomas D. Jackman, Christjon Jackman (wife Jennifer), and Dr. Tonya Jackman Hampton (husband Phillip); his special friend, Ruth Ann James; 13 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a wide circle of other family members and friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Wilder Foundation, 451 Lexington Parkway North, Saint Paul, MN 55104.
Program: 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., followed by grazing and fellowship.
For virtual attendance: Zoom Link, Meeting ID: 830 7809 1649, Passcode: 296457.
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes cards and donations to the American Cancer Society: Donation Link in his name. Cards can also be sent to P.O. Box 19054, Minneapolis, MN 55419-19054.
Jack’s life was a living example of quiet leadership, humor in hardship, and love without condition. His light will continue to guide all who had the privilege of knowing him, reminding us to live generously, laugh often, and lead with heart.