Jackson, John-Paul Christopher

John-Paul Christopher Jackson passed away on January 2, 2026 in Victoria, BC. With degrees from Oklahoma City University and a Ph.D. from Washington University in St. Louis, Jackson came to the University of Lethbridge in 1975 and occupied various roles in the Faculty of Fine Arts, including teaching in the department of Music, serving as Chair of the department and eventually Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts. He spent 25 years at the University of Lethbridge and was influential in shaping Canadian choral music through his work as a composer, conductor and teacher.

He received the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for his contributions and maintained a widespread impact in Alberta's arts scene, particularly with the Lethbridge Symphony and University of Lethbridge. A musicologist by primary focus, he composed for various ensembles, explored Indonesian music, and led, directed and choreographed performance ensembles.

In his personal life, he was a gardener. While living in Lethbridge, his garden was described as being like "an oasis of colour, fertility and creativity amid a high desert." A friend commented, "Everything he does is always to levels of excellence…his creativity and sensitivity weave through all he does…his yard is no exception. A talented and sensitive man who must create."

Condolence Notice — John-Paul Jackson | Notice Board

John-Paul Jackson Obituary (2026) - Victoria, BC - The Times Colonist

NOTE: Actual birthdate for John-Paul is unknown so 1950 was chosen.