Robert Jackson

Robert P. Jackson, PhD, 73, of Cranston, passed away on Thursday at Philip Hulitar Hospice after a long illness. He was the husband of Nancy (Willard) Jackson for 51 years.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island on May 1, 1946, to the late Lawrence and Doris (McGowan) Jackson, he lived in Cranston for 45 years. An avid reader and book collector, Robert worked as a professor of English Literature at Johnson and Wales University for 30 years. Besides his wife, he is survived by his children P. Drake Jackson of Kansas City, Missouri, and his wife Jaime; Amy E. Gearing of Foster; and Katherine A. Raspallo of Burrillville, and her husband James. He was the beloved grandfather to Jackson Gearing, Emma Gearing, Ava Raspallo, Teagan Raspallo and Caroline Jackson.  In addition,  he leaves his brother Lawrence Jackson and his wife Nora, his sister- in- law Judith B. Willard, brothers in-law James E. Sullivan, Christopher Willard and Anthony Willard.

He will be remembered for his vast knowledge of mundane things, college football, Joe Montana trivia, and Shakespearean quotes. His children and grandchildren will miss his hugs the most.

Burial Services will be private at this time.  A Memorial Mass and Celebration of his Life will take place in the future. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in his name to Visiting Nurse Home and Hospice Care 1184 East Main Road, Portsmouth, RI 02871.