Wardell J. Jackson, 67, of Lancaster, PA, passed away at home on Sunday, May 25, 2025.

Born in Wyalusing, PA, he was the son of the late James and Sharon (Kane) Jackson. He was the beloved husband of Theresa Jackson, and a devoted and proud father to Dessie and Wardell "Jay" Jackson III.

Known to many as "Dell," he was a dedicated educator, coach, community member, and friend who built his life around people, purpose, a good sense of humor, and the joy of sharing what he loved.

Dell taught middle school math at Penn Manor School District, and he also coached basketball at both Penn Manor and Donegal school districts. To Dell, basketball was more than a sport — it was a lifelong calling. He launched LLHoops.com to share news, scores, and stories from Lancaster-Lebanon League boys' basketball, becoming a champion for the game and the students who played it. Dell's commitment to education extended far beyond the classroom. In addition to 30 years of teaching, he served as a Penn Manor School Board Director for nearly six years and held numerous leadership roles within the district and teachers' association—including PMEA Representative, Building Representative, EHCC President, Grievance Chair, and member of several Contract Negotiation Committees. He was a strong advocate for students, teachers, and public education at every level. He was known for his generosity—whether passing out LLHoops gear or sharing homemade raspberry jelly, salsa, pickles, honey, or wine.

As a lover of the outdoors, Dell found joy in fishing, hunting, gardening, beekeeping, and spending time at his cherished cabin. Watching the river from the deck, surrounded by nature and filled with laughter and stories, was his favorite place.

He loved learning new skills — especially if it meant sharing them with others. From crafting stained glass pieces to maintaining his beloved LLHoops community, Dell poured passion, curiosity and unmistakable humor into everything he did. He was happiest surrounded by family, friends, students, athletes, and his dogs.

He is survived by his wife, Theresa; his children, Dessie and Wardell "Jay" Jackson III; and his brothers, James (wife, Jennifer) and Jon (wife, Cheryl) Jackson; and his four nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Meadia Heights Golf Club (Lancaster, PA) on June 28 from 1–4 p.m. Guests are welcome to drop in at any time.

A second Celebration of Life for family and friends in the Wyalusing area will be held at Homet's Ferry on August 16, beginning at 4 p.m.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the many friends, family, neighbors, the LLHoops community, and the care teams at Agape Care and Hospice & Community Care. Your support made it possible for Dell to stay in his home and continue doing what he loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dell's name may be made to the Water Street Mission or the Penn Manor Education Foundation.