May 20, 2015
In Memoriam: Dr. Arthur F. Jackson ’59; taught philosophy at PC for 47 years
Dr. Arthur F. Jackson ’59, retired associate professor of philosophy, died on March 25, 2015.
Dr. Jackson enjoyed a 47-year teaching career at the College, retiring in June 2014. He joined the faculty as an instructor of philosophy in 1967 and was the department’s first lay faculty member. Dr. Jackson was promoted to assistant professor in 1972 and to associate professor in 1999. He taught in the Development of Western Civilization Program and served as department chair from 1996 to 1999.
His areas of expertise were the philosophy of the human person and ethics.
Colleague Dr. Vance G. Morgan, professor of philosophy and director of the DWC Program, said Dr. Jackson thoroughly enjoyed teaching, particularly DWC.
“Art really was a jack-of-all-trades. He was very interdisciplinary and a great teammate, although we never actually taught DWC together because we’re both in philosophy,” said Morgan. “I never heard a colleague say a negative word about him.”
The respect colleagues held for him extended to his students as well, said Morgan. “He was very user-friendly for students and very kind to them. He was just a wonderful guy, and I know the students loved him,” he said.
Prior to teaching at PC, Dr. Jackson taught science at Goff Junior High and Tolman High, both in Pawtucket, R.I., for a total of six years.
Born in Providence, R.I., Dr. Jackson attended St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket and earned a bachelor’s degree from PC in 1959. He earned his master’s and doctoral degrees from Boston College.
Dr. Jackson was a member of the American and R.I. Philosophical Associations, a member of REALIA, a former member of the Harriers Running Club, and a former Mensa member. He was a member of the Appalachian Club.
A resident of North Smithfield, R.I., Dr. Jackson was the husband of Joan F. (Burke) Jackson. Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, Brendan A. Jackson ’90 and his wife, Michelle, Jill A.J. Fernandes ’88 and her husband, David, and Heather S.J. Ewing ’95 and her husband, David; a sister, Virginia S. Jackson; and seven grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated in St. John the Evangelist Church, Slatersville, R.I.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Raphael Academy, 123 Walcott Ave., Pawtucket, RI 02904.
