For more than three decades, Jackson also worked as chief of protocol for the Saskatchewan government until his resignation in 2005, overseeing security, logistics and etiquette for diplomatic visits. In this role he organized royal trips to Canada, including three visits by Queen Elizabeth II in 1978, 1987 and 2005.

A Facebook post from St. Paul’s announcing Jackson’s death described him as “a devoted husband, father and grandfather,” “an invaluable member of our liturgical team and Cathedral family” and a “good and faithful servant.”

In a Facebook comment, Peter Elliott, retired dean of Christ Church Cathedral in Vancouver, called Jackson “a groundbreaking deacon in the Anglican Church,” adding, “His memory is a blessing.”

Current and retired Saskatchewan public officials also mourned the late deacon. Ralph Goodale, former Liberal MP and leader of the Saskatchewan Liberals, tweeted, “Sad news … In addition to his dedication to the Anglican Church, Michael was also one of Canada’s finest protocol officers and a leading expert on the role, history and value of monarchy in CDN governance.”

Former Saskatchewan premier Brad Wall called Jackson “a remarkable individual whose passion for dedication to his vocation, avocation, and to his province and country were manifest.” Jason Quilliam, who took over as Saskatchewan’s chief of protocol in 2012, described Jackson as “a giant in the protocol world” and a friend.

Among deacons, Jackson played a leading role in building ecumenical relationships. In 2018 he coordinated the International Anglican-Roman Catholic and Ukrainian Catholic Conference on the Diaconate at the University of Regina. He later edited a book on the conference, The Diaconate in Ecumenical Perspective.

In 2017 Jackson received the Maylanne Maybee Award, which recognizes Canadian Anglican deacons for outstanding service, from ADC, then known as the Association of Anglican Deacons in Canada. In 2021, he was awarded the honourary degree of Doctor of Divinity from the College of Emmanuel and St. Chad in Saskatoon.

A memorial service and celebration of Jackson’s life will be held at St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral in Regina May 20.