Trenton James Jackson was born February 28th, 1942 in Coredele Georgia, to James “JC” Jackson (predeceased) and Evelyn Jackson. The eldest of seven children Trent was affectionately known as “TJ.”
Upon moving to Rochester, New York, “TJ” became a permanent fixture at Baden Street Settlement House. Trent attended Benjamin Franklin High School, where he set the National High School Record in the 100 yard dash (9.4). After being taught, coached, and mentored by Coach Mauro Panaggio, TJ pursued his dream at the University of Illinois. TJ became a Collegiate All-American, as well as Big Ten, Rose Bowl, and National Champion, lettering on the track, football, basketball, and baseball teams. In 1964, he won the Big Ten 100 yard Dash in 9.5, the 220 yard dash in 21.3, and anchored the championship 440 yard relay, the NCAA 4x110 yard relay championship, set the National Collegiate Record in the 100 meter dash (10.1), won the AAU 100 meter championship, the US Olympic Trials 100 meter dash, represented the United States at the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan and became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. In 1965 he finished 3rd at the NCAA 60 yard dash. Then, he led Illinois to the 4x440 yard relay championship at the outdoor Big 10 championship. TJ held the 100 meter record at Illinois for 40 years.
In 1966, Trent was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. However, he chose to play football in the National Football League. After playing for the Washington Redskins and Philadelphia Eagles, TJ returned home, and began his passionate journey, of touching the lives of others.
Trent met and fell in love with the lovely Pamela Kittelberger. They were united on July 10, 1971. From their union, Nicole, Yolanda, Heidi and Trenton Jr. were conceived. TJ taught in the Rochester City School District for over 30 years. Winning six Section V Basketball Championships in 1984, ’86, ’93, ’94, ’96, and 2000, while becoming a State Finalist in 1993 and 1996. One of Trent’s proudest accomplishments included the opportunity to coach his daughters in Track and Field, leading Nicole to three Section V titles. TJ received Section V “Coach of the Year” Honors in 1996 and 2000, when he led his son Trent Jr. to Section V “Player of the Year” honors. Coach Jackson was inducted, into the Section V Track and Field, Football, and Basketball Hall of Fames as a player and coach.
Trent was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, cook, comedian, chief, and FRIEND. However, TRENT’S GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT, WAS TURNING HIS LIFE OVER TO JESUS CHRIST.
On March 25, 2007, after touching the lives of so many, Trent was called home. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Pamela, children Terrence (Glenda), Nicole, Yolanda, Heidi and Trent Jr. and his mother Evelyn Jackson; sisters, Mary Warner, Carolyn (Quarkynee) Glover and Regina Jackson; special grandchildren Carlton Taylor, Trent III, Terrance II, Olivia and India; Uncle Willie F. Smith; the Kittelberger Family: Sandra, Ernest (Paula) Gary (Debbie) Barry Gerald, Darryl (Kari), Wayne (Crystal); mother and father-in-law, Fred and Dottie Jentons, Jimmy Jentons, Judy Harris All of Rochester, NY; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; other family members and Friends
The family will receive friends on Friday 5-9 P.M. at Antioch Baptist Church, 304 Joseph Ave. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, 11 AM at the church. Rev. Joseph Carter, Pastor. Rev Roger Breedlove, Officiating. Interment Riverside Cemetery.