WASHINGTON D.C. (CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — The Air Force announced that Retired Chief Master Sgt. Daisy L. Jackson, formerly of Pensacola, Fla., died on Sunday, July 15th, following a brief illness. Jackson was regarded as one of the best sopranos in the history of the Air Force Band's history.
Jackson served as a leader, musician, and director of Public Affairs for The U.S. Air Force Band and was held in high regard by her colleagues.
Jackson graduated from the University of West Florida where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education. In 1975, she completed a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance at the Peabody Conservatory of Music under the tutelage of Madame Alice G. Duschak. In 1979, Jackson graduated from the world-renowned Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Todd Duncan, chosen by composer George Gershwin to create the role of 'Porgy' in the American opera "Porgy and Bess," was Jackson's teacher during her studies at the Curtis Institute.
She performed across the U.S., and abroad, appearing before presidents, senior statesman and military officials from almost every nation, as well as performing across the U.S. as a recitalist, and oratorio soloist, winning numerous awards and competitions.
Perhaps her most memorable moment, was her performance on CNN's "Larry King Live" when she sang retired Chief Master Sgt. Mike Davis' a cappella arrangement of "America, the Beautiful," as a tribute to the fallen heroes and victims of the Sept. 11 tragedy.
As director of public affairs, Jackson helped the Air Force Band's Guest Artist Series rise to international prominence. As a result, more than 80 major artists donated their time and effort to perform with the Air Force Band, including appearances on the "Today" show and "The Late Show with David Letterman," as well as numerous television appearances in the National Capital Region.
According to Col. Larry Lang, the Band's commander and conductor, "Chief Jackson was a giant in the music industry. Her magnificent voice, her beautiful, radiant smile, and her uncompromising standards made us a better organization. Our Air Force family will miss her great and generous spirit."
A Memorial Service honoring Chief Jackson's life will be held on Aug. 4 in California. She will be interred in Arlington National Cemetery in November. – CelebrityAccess Staff Writers
