Jackson Family Pays Tribute to Lifelong Friend and Community Leader Spencer Leak Jr. (Chicago, IL) – The family of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. is mourning the loss of longtime friend, businessman, and civic leader Spencer Leak Jr., remembering him as a man whose compassion, dignity, and unwavering commitment to others left a lasting impact on generations of Chicagoans.
In a heartfelt statement, members of the Jackson family reflected on a relationship that spanned decades and was rooted in friendship, faith, and mutual support. They described Leak as more than a family friend, calling him a beloved member of their extended family whose presence remained constant through both joyous and difficult moments.
According to the statement, the bond between the Jackson and Leak families began generations ago with Mr. and Mrs. A.R. Leak. When the Jackson family first settled in Chicago, they said the Leak family welcomed them with open arms and helped establish a foundation for their new life in the city.
“Our family’s bond with Spencer Leak, Sr., Henrietta Leak, their children, and grandchildren was rooted in friendship, faith, trust, and shared values,” the family wrote. “Such a sacred bond can never be broken.”
That relationship continued to grow through the years with Spencer Leak Jr., his wife Dr. Donna Leak, and their children. The Jackson family highlighted Leak’s support following the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., noting that he was among the first people they contacted during that difficult time.
“From our home in Chicago to Reverend Jackson’s beloved South Carolina to Rainbow PUSH and ultimately to his final resting place, Spencer never left his side,” the statement said.
Leak was widely recognized throughout Chicago and Illinois as a respected businessman and civic leader. The Jackson family praised his lifelong dedication to serving others, emphasizing that his greatest contribution was not his professional accomplishments but the dignity and care he extended to everyone he met.
“Spencer and the Leak family never turned anyone away,” the statement read. “Those Godly qualities earned him the admiration, affection, and respect of generations of families throughout Illinois and across this country.”
The family said Leak successfully carried forward the legacy established by previous generations of the Leak family while creating a legacy of his own built on character, compassion, service, and love for others.
The statement extended condolences to Leak’s wife, Dr. Donna Leak; his children; his parents, Spencer Leak Sr. and Henrietta Leak; his brothers, Stacy and Steven; and the entire Leak family.
While acknowledging the profound loss felt by family and friends, the Jackson family said Leak’s example will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Quoting scripture, they added, “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord,” expressing comfort in their belief that Leak’s faithful journey continues in God’s eternal embrace.
The tribute concluded with a personal farewell to a man they described as deeply loved and impossible to forget.
“Fly high, sweet prince,” the family wrote. “You will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.”
Jackson Family Pays Tribute to Lifelong Friend and Community Leader Spencer Leak Jr.
