ALBANY, OREGON — A Community Mourns the Loss of Kendrick “Ken” Daniel Jackson, 17, Following Tragic Car Accident

ALBANY, OREGON — With broken hearts and unimaginable sorrow, the family and loved ones of Kendrick “Ken” Daniel Jackson, age 17, of Albany, Oregon, announce his untimely passing. Ken’s bright and promising life was tragically cut short in the early hours of Saturday, June 14, 2025, following a devastating car accident just outside Lebanon, Oregon. His sudden departure has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him — a loss that reverberates deeply throughout the Albany and Lebanon communities.

Born on February 3, 2008, Kendrick was a radiant soul from the beginning — energetic, compassionate, curious, and deeply rooted in his family and friendships. He was the beloved son of Danielle and Marcus Jackson, a protective big brother to his younger sister, Ava, and a loyal friend to countless classmates and teammates. Whether he was joking around with friends, helping a neighbor with chores, or lending a listening ear to someone who needed it, Ken had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and uplifted.

A junior at South Albany High School, Ken was known for his enthusiasm for life and his fierce dedication to the things he loved. He was a standout on the school’s football team, where he played wide receiver with passion, grit, and a team-first attitude that earned him admiration from peers and coaches alike. Off the field, he excelled in the classroom and was particularly drawn to science and mechanics, often talking about his dream of becoming an automotive engineer.

But what truly set Ken apart was not just his talents or ambitions, but the kind of heart he had. He had an infectious laugh that could light up a room and a gentle, grounded spirit that made people feel safe and cared for. Friends describe him as the one who always knew what to say, who stayed up late talking through problems, who never hesitated to offer his last dollar or his shoulder to cry on.

The accident that took Ken’s life occurred around 2:30 a.m. on a rural stretch of road near Lebanon. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances, but what remains most painfully clear is that a young man full of dreams, potential, and goodness was taken from this world far too soon.

In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, a wave of support has surged through the community. A vigil held at South Albany High on Saturday night drew hundreds of students, teachers, and neighbors, who gathered with candles, flowers, and shared memories in a tearful tribute to a life gone too soon. “Ken was more than a friend — he was a light in our lives,” one classmate said through tears. “There’s no one like him. We’ll carry him with us always.”

His family, grappling with unspeakable grief, has expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of love and support. In a statement, his parents shared:

“Ken was our sunshine — our joy, our pride. He made every day brighter just by being in it. We will miss his laugh, his hugs, his wisdom beyond his years. We ask for privacy as we try to heal, but we thank this incredible community for loving our son so deeply.”

Ken is survived by his parents, Danielle and Marcus Jackson; his sister, Ava; grandparents Harold and Denise Jackson of Albany, and Teresa Morgan of Corvallis; aunts, uncles, cousins, teammates, and countless friends who all now mourn his loss.

A public memorial service will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Albany First Assembly Church. All who knew Ken or were touched by his spirit are welcome to attend and celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Ken’s name to the South Albany High School Athletics Fund or to a scholarship fund being established in his memory.

As the Albany community struggles to come to terms with this devastating loss, one thing remains certain: Kendrick Daniel Jackson’s light will never be extinguished. It will live on in the laughter he shared, the kindness he spread, and the many lives he touched in his 17 short but impactful years.

Rest easy, Ken. You will forever be loved, missed, and remembered.