John Hollis Jackson Jr. will retire as county attorney after spending the past 48 years in that position.

Jackson officially informed the Chilton County Commission of his decision during the Dec. 12 Commission meeting.

Jackson first took over the role of county attorney on Jan. 20, 1969. His retirement will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2017.

“Over the years, I’ve worked with a lot of great people,” Jackson said. “They took me in as if I was a member of the family.”

He had not been practicing law long and was just a short time removed from serving in the Army when presented with the opportunity in 1969.

As a result, Jackson grew with the job and learned along the way.

“It has changed because county government in general has more roles,” Jackson said. “Personally and professionally, it was a great experience.”

According to Jackson, he was always intrigued with the inner workings of government and the legal process associated with it.

“I always enjoyed the job and considered it an honor,” Jackson said.

He wishes the best of luck to the next county attorney and believes there are a variety of well-qualified candidates in the area.

Jackson has lived in Chilton County throughout his life and certainly has done his duty in representing the county over the years.

According to Jackson, his decision was a difficult one, but was the right choice at this point in his life.

His son John Hollis Jackson III will also resign as assistant county attorney.

Despite resigning from their roles with the county, the two will continue their law practice together.

“It was a very good time in my life, but time marches on,” Jackson said.

The Chilton County Commission sent out the following press release:

“After 48 years working devotedly as County Attorney for the Chilton County Commission, John Hollis Jackson, Jr. announced Monday, December 12, 2016, his intent to retire effective January 1, 2017.  Also announced was the resignation of the Assistant County Attorney John Hollis Jackson, III, also effective January 1, 2017.   On behalf of the Chilton County Commission, I would like to express our gratitude for the many years of dedication and service to not only the Commissioners they have represented, but also to the wellbeing of the citizens of our county.  Although Mr. Jackson is retiring from his position as Chilton County Attorney, he plans to continue practicing law along with his son, John Hollis Jackson, III.  Both will be greatly missed. We wish them both the best of luck in their future endeavors,” Allen Caton, Chilton County Commission Chairman.