Rev. Clarence Richard Barnes: Beloved Pastor, Veteran, and Musician Remembered
The Rev. Clarence Richard Barnes was called home to be with God on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024. He was born
The city of Columbus, Georgia, is in mourning today following the loss of District Attorney Stacey Jackson. Jackson, a dedicated public servant known for his unwavering commitment to justice, passed away after a lengthy battle with illness yesterday morning. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving colleagues, friends, and residents grappling with grief.
Stacey Jackson served as the District Attorney for Columbus for the past two years, earning a reputation as a fierce advocate for victims’ rights and a formidable prosecutor in the courtroom. His tenure was marked by a relentless pursuit of justice and a steadfast dedication to upholding the law.
Throughout his career, Stacey Jackson was known for his integrity, professionalism, and commitment to fairness. A consistent theme shown among local law professionals who interacted with Jackson was “Be prepared.” Jackson impacted the lives of numerous law professionals and taught them to always stay on their toes.
“One thing he taught me that I will always take with me is to be prepared. He handled each and every case with care. Even if he wasn’t prepared, I wouldn’t have known because he knew how to make this thing look good,” said attorney Shevon Thomas II. “You can tell that he stayed up late, knew his client, understood his client’s case and understood every piece of the law that pertained to his client’s case. He would go in there and he fought for them,” said Thomas.
Colleagues remember Jackson as a mentor and a leader, someone who inspired those around him to strive for excellence in their work. “Whenever I would get a case and he [Stacey] was on the opposing side, I knew that I had to put in the work and that I would have to bring my A game because he was just an exemplary attorney; master of his craft,” said Clerk of Superior and State Courts Danielle Forté. “He taught me to put aside personal ambitions, particularly your ego to do what is right for the greater good.”
The loss of Stacey Jackson leaves a void in the Columbus community that will be difficult to fill. As residents come to terms with this tragic news, they are reminded of Jackson’s profound impact on the city and its people. Tributes are pouring in in honor of a man whose legacy will endure for years to come.
“Stacey didn’t leave any stones unturned and, as a litigator, just hanging around him, learning from him I found out that words do matter and you have to be prepared. He was what I call a wordsmith,” said attorney Shevon Thomas Sr.
Funeral arrangements for Stacey Jackson are pending, and details will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the community is invited to come together to remember and celebrate the life of a remarkable individual who dedicated himself to serving others.
The thoughts and prayers of the entire city are with Stacey Jackson’s family during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, and public servant. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.