Pirates announce passing of former player Grant Jackson due to COVID-19

PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Pirates reported Tuesday the passing of former player Grant “Buck” Jackson.

Jackson died Tuesday morning at Canonsburg Hospital due to COVID-19 complications, according to the team. He was 78-years-old.

“This pandemic has affected every family throughout our community, and the Pirates family is no different,” Pirates President Travis Williams said in a statement. “As the winning pitcher for the Pirates in Game 7 of the 1979 World Series, Grant was a World Series Champion and All-Star, who remained dedicated to the Pirates and the City of Pittsburgh since his retirement in 1982. He was an active board member of our Alumni Association who was always willing to help make an impact in our community. More so than any on-field accomplishment, Grant was a proud family man. Our sincere condolences and support go to his wife Millie (Milagro), his children Debra, Yolanda and Grant Jr., as well as his 10 grandchildren. He will be missed.”

Jackson compiled a 29-19 record and 3.23 ERA while spending parts of six seasons as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1977-81 and 1982.

During the 1979 regular season, Jackson went 8-5 with a 2.96 ERA in 72 relief appearances for the “We Are Family” World Series-winning team. Jackson made six scoreless appearances during the 1979 postseason, earning the win in Game Seven of the World Series in Baltimore. Jackson also served the organization as a pitching and bullpen coach from 1983-85.

Private services will be held on Saturday, Feb. 6.

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