Richland County councilman, longtime local leader Calvin ‘Chip’ Jackson dies
Richland County Councilman Calvin “Chip” Jackson, a public servant of South Carolina in many capacities for over two decades, has died.
The District 9 councilman, who was described by friends and colleagues as a confidant, a man of faith, a strong leader and a “big brother,” died Friday at the age of 65. Jackson is survived by his wife, Pat, along with his mother, children and grandchildren.
“It’s extremely unfortunate. I’m shocked and surprised,” County Council Chairman Paul Livingston told The State. “In my opinion, it’s a tremendous loss to the county and the council because of the views he brought to County Council. ...
“I respected him and could trust him. It’s a big loss.”
Livingston said he did not know the causes of Jackson’s death.
Jackson’s family shared a statement through a representative Friday afternoon, saying, “This is a very tough time for us, as you can imagine. We ask for your continued prayers and wishes. As details and arrangements are made in the coming days, we will make certain the community is informed. Again, we thank you for your support, kindness and we ask for your continued prayers.”
In a statement, Jackson’s fellow council member Dalhi Myers said she was “deeply grateful to Pat, his wife, for sharing Chip so freely with all of us.”
“I’ve known and loved Chip Jackson as a ‘big brother’ and friend my entire life,” Myers said. “Even when he and I fervently disagreed on Richland County issues, Chip reminded me that the two of us were ‘family.’
“Public service for minorities and women in Richland County is difficult. There are those who constantly seek ways to erode the public’s trust in or for black leaders and leadership. Chip and I often discussed this challenge, but he always reminded me that my service was first to God, then to His people, our constituents.”
Jackson was elected to Richland County Council in 2016 and represented much of northeast Columbia.
Before being elected to council, Jackson served eight years on the Richland 2 school board.
He was regarded for his support of public education and service to educational institutions like the University of South Carolina, Clemson University, College of Charleston and Trident Technical College, all places where he worked over the years.
He was also a leader at Bible Way Church of Atlas Road, including serving as the church’s chief operating officer for more than a decade.
“Chip and I are both men of faith and enjoyed lengthy conversations about our spirituality,” said Councilman Joe Walker. “That gives me great assurance that I will, in fact, see him again one day. ... My prayers are with his family. He doted over them constantly. I know how proud of you he was.”
“I’m still stunned,” said Councilwoman Chakisse Newton. “It’s hard to believe that someone as vibrant as Chip is gone. He was a kind, caring and thoughtful person who will be greatly missed.”
Councilman Jim Manning said he and his colleagues were “reeling” from Jackson’s sudden loss Friday.
“It was a privilege to serve with him,” Manning said, noting Jackson’s work on leading the transportation committee as the council reworked its $1 billion penny road tax program. “He did a good job with that in a difficult time, and we benefited from the perspective he brought from serving on another locally elected body.”
“His death has left a void in Richland County that will be difficult to fill,” said Councilwoman Yvonne McBride. “Chip was a man of great character and he took his responsibilities as a councilperson very seriously. I will miss his professionalism, leadership skills, knowledge, wisdom and his wry humor. He was the ‘voice of logic’ and will be missed dearly.”
Earlier this year, Richland County Council approved a plan that erased a projected $154 million deficit and instead leaves the road program with a $56.5 million surplus. Jackson was a vocal supporter of the plan.
“He was a good person and a good person to work with,” said Councilwoman Gwen Kennedy. “He always seemed to be very concerned about his constituents. I enjoyed working with him the last few years, and my heart goes out to his family.”
Jackson had all but secured a second council term in June with a Democratic primary win over Jonnieka Farr. He faced no opposition in the Nov. 3 election. A special election may now need to be held to find a replacement candidate for the District 9 seat.
Richland County leadership also expressed “deep sadness” over Jackson’s passing.
“Councilman Jackson, a thoughtful and valued member of our Body, led the Transportation Penny Ad Hoc Committee through very difficult times and our Economic Development Committee to great successes. Councilman Jackson was a hard worker, but more importantly, he was a dear colleague and friend,” the county said in a statement. “After further consultation with the Jackson family, Richland County will apprise Mr. Jackson’s constituents and community friends of details, of any memorials and ways to honor his tireless work on behalf of Richland County and District 9.”
“We are shocked and saddened at the sudden loss of Chip Jackson,” said Carl Blackstone, President and CEO of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. “He was a good friend and advocate of the Columbia Chamber and the entire business community. Chip will be remembered as someone who choose compassion over partisanship in today’s divisive world. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family and the many people and organizations who have lost such a great leader.”
This story was originally published August 7, 2020 at 2:59 PM.