Marcas Ellis Mason Jackson departed this world far too soon at the age of 35. Though his years among us were short, his impact was immeasurable. Anyone blessed to know Marcas, whether through a lifelong bond or a brief encounter, felt the light of his presence.

Marcas had a calm, quiet soul, yet those who truly knew him experienced his boisterous personality, infectious laugh, and quick wit. He had a gift for making people feel special, whether through a warm “How you doin?” as you walked in the room, a teasing nickname only he would use, or a shared inside joke from his many memorable bus trips. His joy shone brightest when making memories with those he loved: at family dinners, movie nights, vacations, or outings with his beloved STA family.

From a young age, Marcas had a clear dream: he would drive a school bus. What began as a childhood fascination grew into determination and, ultimately, into the career he cherished. True to his nature - think it, figure it out, and do it - he worked hard to make that dream a reality, finding not just a job but a calling that brought him pride and built lifelong friendships.

Marcas started at STA after high school. After acquiring his CDL, he began driving and then worked his way up to dispatcher within the organization. Marcas’s career with STA was far more than the responsibility of transporting children safely to and from school. It was a mission of care, dedication, and service. He approached his work with the same warmth and reliability that he brought to every aspect of his life. Beyond his daily routes, Marcas was a trusted team player whose knowledge and willingness to help took him far beyond his home base.

When the company needed support in other locations, Marcas didn’t hesitate to step up. In Willingboro Township, NJ, he helped keep the yard operations running smoothly until a permanent replacement could be found, ensuring that nothing disrupted service for the students who relied on them. He traveled to Raleigh, NC, lending his experience to assist with local school routes, and later made his way to Jacksonville, FL, where he took on the role of instructor, leading group training sessions with patience, clarity, and his trademark humor. No matter the task or the distance, Marcas embraced each opportunity with a spirit of teamwork, loyalty, and pride in his profession.

His faith and love for music shone just as brightly as his professional dedication. As a devoted member of Union Baptist Temple, Marcas shared his God-given musical talent through participation in several of the church’s choirs. Whether his voice was blending harmoniously with others or lifting up a solo part, Marcas sang with genuine joy and heartfelt reverence. Music was one of the ways he expressed his gratitude for life and faith. Each note he sang was an offering of praise. His presence in the choir was not only heard, but deeply felt, inspiring fellow members and congregants alike.

Marcas entered this world on October 19, 1989, in Bridgeton, New Jersey, to Jesse and Carolyn Jackson. He was a devoted son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jesse Jackson, Sr., and Bertha M. Jackson, as well as his maternal grandparents, William and Ilene Mason. He leaves behind his loving parents; his brothers, Gabriel and Terence; his beloved pets; countless uncles, aunts, cousins; and a host of extended family members, friends, and colleagues who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

We take comfort in knowing that Marcas’s spirit - his laughter, his dreams, his kindness - will live on in each of us and in the many lives he touched.