Layman L. Jackson, Nanticoke elder
Layman L. Jackson, 95, of Millsboro went home to be with the Lord Friday, Aug. 20, 2021, at home. He was born Feb. 13, 1926, to the late William W. and Sarah Jannie Jackson in Millsboro. He was a member of Harmony United Methodist Church.
Layman, also known as “Pop” to many, resided in Millsboro his entire life. He received his education at the Nanticoke Indian School and is a member of the tribal association. As one of the eldest members of the Nanticoke Tribe, his jovial demeanor, funny stories and jokes brought many smiles to people all over. Layman, “He Who Makes You Laugh,” could be found at almost any tribal event.
He was a U.S. WWII Naval Officer veteran and a member of the Oak Orchard/Riverdale American Legion Post 28. In 2017, NABVETS Delaware Chapter #94 recognized him as a Native American WWII Navy veteran who served our country with pride and dignity. During the ceremony he received a tribute from the Office of the Governor and Office of Representatives for his selfless acts of protecting life and defending our nation.
He was a truck driver for most of his life. After retiring, he and his wife started Irene’s Cleaning Services. He enjoyed camping, fishing, crabbing, bowling, going to the Powwow and never wanted to miss BJ’s Auction night, owned by Arnold Huffman who for 37 years thought of him as a father. He was an avid fan of boxing, NASCAR racing and those old-time western movies. He enjoyed sitting outside by his shed hoping someone would stop and visit, and if not, he’d grab his hat and we’d ask, “Dad where are you going?” He’d reply, “Just taking a ride around the block.” He wanted to see if anyone else in the neighborhood would be outside, and he’d stop and visit them, although, he wouldn’t stay out long for fear he would miss “Leolga” dropping off her homemade dumplings.
His children will never forget the unconditional love he had for them, the laughter he brought to the home, always providing a feeling of security and teaching us to be thankful for the blessings that God has given.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife Irene Elizabeth; grandson Shane Appling of Easton Md.; four brothers, Wesley, Samuel, Earl and Arvel, of Millsboro; and two sisters, Meredith Warren of Millsboro and Delilah Norwood of Lewes.
He is survived by his three children, Layman (Butch), Jackson (Jody) of Seaford; Sandra E. Appling (Robert) of Dover; and Sharon K. Jackson of Millsboro; grandson; Aaron L. Appling of Dover; great-grandchildren, Hunter Blaine Appling of Claremont, N.C., Sophia Isabella Appling of Dover and Jaxon Appling of Easton Md.; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Casmer and Blonnie Zakrociemski of Laurel; several nieces, nephews, and an enormous number of friends.
Services will be held Saturday, Aug. 28, at Watson Funeral Home, 211 S. Washington St., Millsboro. Friends may call between 10 and 11 a.m., with the service beginning at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Harmony Cemetery, Millsboro.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Nanticoke Indian Association, 27073 John J. Williams Hwy., Millsboro, DE 19966.
Electronic condolences via www.watsonfh.com
