Kris (Suge) Jackson

KRIS (SUGE) JACKSON was born on July 26, 1966, in Jersey City, New Jersey to the late Eloise Sims Jackson and Charles Jackson. He was the beloved brother of his three siblings, Kim, Kyle (Majik) and Karen, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories and love.

A graduate of Ferris High School in Jersey City, Kris was educated at Montclair State University. While a student there, he was introduced to DJing and fell in love with music. His passion for music became a driving force in his life, shaping not only his career but the connections he made along his journey. Kris love for music opened doors to relationships with many prominent figures in the music industry. He went on to create his own private label with his big brother, “Majik” and his good friend George Haile —Black Wax Records, where he produced, wrote and nurtured many up-and-coming artists with his brother. For Kris, music wasn’t just a career—it was who he was, and he shared that love with everyone lucky enough to know him. He carried this passion for music until the very end. He was a member of “the band” which he created with friends Raf and Dana.

In 1990, Kris met the love of his life, Patricia Lynch. The two later married, and their 34-year union was a beautiful testament to love and partnership. Together, they were blessed with two children, Niya, born in 1994, and Jelani, born in 2000. Kris was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. Kris was the driving force behind his son Jelani’s basketball journey, supporting him throughout countless practices and traveling across states for the AAU circuits, which led Jelani to earning a full basketball scholarship to Georgian Court University. Kris also shared his love for music with Jelani by teaching him how to play the drums, thereby fostering his creativity. Kris also supported Niya throughout her sports endeavors, from gymnastics to softball, and cultivated her passion for music. He practiced the violin with her, thus leading Niya to perform at Lincoln Center with her school’s band. Kris instilled his love of music, education and sports into his children.

Additionally, Kris found great joy in cooking for his family, creating meals that were flavorful and full of love. He taught himself to play the keyboard, guitar, bass and drums. He also enjoyed the ocean, comedy, and was quite comedic himself. Known for his generous spirit, Kris was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His unwavering love and dedication to his family and friends were the cornerstone of his life and the legacy he leaves behind.

On December 24, 2024, Kris peacefully departed this life, trading his earthly body for heavenly wings. He is now reunited with our Heavenly Father as well as his beloved mother, Eloise, father, Charles, and other family members that predeceased him, like his cousin, Delon, whom he loved deeply.

Kris leaves behind a lifetime of love and memories to be cherished by his devoted wife, Patricia, his beloved daughter, Niya, and his son, Jelani. He is also survived by his brother Kyle (Majik), his sisters Kim and Karen, and a host of nieces and nephews: Chaz, Jared, Justin, Charles Jr., Naijah, Desiree, Kyasia, Kylani,Keshon, Victoria, Myeisha, Tyson, Matthew, Monaye, Genesis, Aaron, the late Jasmyn, and also Nicole. Kris' extended family includes his mother-in-law, Lynette Woodburn, brother-in-law, Dan Eatman,Glenroy Stewart and Michael Lynch, and sister-in-law, Geneva Jackson and Marcia Johnson along with countless cousins and dear friends who were touched by his warmth, humor, and generous spirit. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Kris’ life was marked by his adventurous and loving spirit. He wants his life to remembered in celebration rather than in sorrow. As we bid farewell to Suge we remember his beautiful soul and the love he brought to our lives. His sunset, on December 24, 2024, marks the end of his earthly journey, but his spirit forever shines brightly in our hearts.