The University of Lethbridge expresses its condolences to the family and friends of former Faculty of Fine Arts Dean, Dr. John-Paul Jackson, who passed away on January 2, 2026, in Victoria, B.C.
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 ULethbridge 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 ULethbridge. A musicologist by primary focus, he composed for various ensembles, explored Indonesian music, and led, directed and choreographed performance ensembles.
A full obituary on Jackson's life can be found here.
Contact:
Trevor Kenney | trevor.kenney@uleth.ca | lethbridgeherald.com/obituaries/2026/01/16/Friday-January-16-2026