David Harris Jackson

May 20, 1994 - May 15, 2026

David Harris Jackson, 31, of Atlanta, Georgia, was taken from us suddenly following an auto accident on May 15, 2026.

Born in Atlanta, David was raised in Pasadena, California, where he spent most of his childhood before returning south to attend Emory University, where he earned a degree in Economics. He was the beloved son of Robert Patterson Jackson III and Leigh Tuggle Olivar. Though his life ended far too soon, David lived with a generosity of spirit and kindness that left a lasting mark on those fortunate enough to know him.

David built a career in commercial real estate lending, with professional chapters that took him through Dallas, New York, and Atlanta. Most recently he worked with Regions Bank, where he took pride in his work and cared deeply about doing good work. He approached his responsibilities thoughtfully, with professionalism and a quiet commitment to excellence. Along the way, he pursued entrepreneurial interests as well, purchasing and operating a multifamily property in Atlanta where he chose to live among those around him rather than simply investing from afar. He was recently accepted to pursue his MBA, an opportunity that reflected both his ambition and his belief that growth and reinvention should never stop.

David possessed a rare kindness that struck people immediately and stayed with them long after. He was thoughtful, generous, and deeply loyal. Friends and family knew him as someone who quietly showed up for others, often putting their needs ahead of his own.

Those who knew David would also smile remembering that punctuality was never among his strongest gifts. David seemed to move through life with energy and purpose, rarely standing still for long. Close friends often remarked that he always seemed to have an extraordinary number of things happening at once - balancing work, friendships, helping others, and staying connected to the people who mattered to him. He somehow managed to make each person feel important, always showing up for others even while carrying so much himself. David also had a quiet wit and a way of looking at life that made his observations memorable. Whether thoughtful, insightful, or unexpectedly funny, his commentary often brought laughter and perspective to those around him. Even the qualities that made us laugh were rooted in the same generous heart that defined him.

In recent years, David found fulfillment helping foster rescue dogs on their journey to permanent homes - though he often admitted that he became deeply attached and found it difficult to let them go. Even so, in keeping with his generous spirit, he had already agreed to take in another foster dog in the weeks ahead.

David shared an especially deep and meaningful bond with his mother, Leigh. Their connection was rooted in unconditional love and a closeness that remained a constant throughout his life. She was a source of encouragement, support, and understanding, and the two shared a relationship defined by deep affection and an enduring connection that time and distance never diminished.

David and his father shared many joyful and loving memories throughout his childhood, and as David matured their relationship deepened in new and meaningful ways. They spent many hours talking about life, ambitions, current events, and the changing world around them. David shared with his father his perspectives, concerns, and aspirations, reflecting a close and loving bond rooted in trust, affection, and the enduring connection between a father and son.

In recent years, as his brother Robert Jackson moved to Georgia for college, he and David had the opportunity to spend more time together and build new shared experiences. David also shared a special connection with his younger brother, Camden Jackson, and sister, Quinn Jackson. Though separated by years and distance, he cared deeply for them and embraced his role in their lives with love and pride. He shared a close bond with his cousin, Patterson Joyner, and over time embraced an extended family that became an important part of his life, including Harry Olivar, whose kindness and generosity became an important part of David's extended family life, along with Harry's sons, Jordan, David, and Harry Jr., with whom David shared meaningful connections and many family memories.

David is survived by his father, Robert Patterson Jackson III; his mother, Leigh Tuggle Olivar; his stepmother, Jennifer Pellegrino Jackson; his brothers Robert and Camden Jackson; his sister, Quinn Jackson; his cousin, Patterson Joyner; and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives are richer because they knew him.

David's life was defined not only by what he accomplished, but by the way he lived - with kindness, generosity, loyalty, and a sincere care for others. His absence leaves an immeasurable void, and he will be missed beyond words. Our family is profoundly grateful for the love, kindness, and support shown by so many during this difficult time. The compassion extended to those affected by this tragedy has meant more than words can express.