African-American civil rights icon and Baptist minister, Jesse Louis Jackson has died aged 84.

A statement by his family indicated that Mr Jackson died on Tuesday, leaving behind a globally recognised legacy.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of civil rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson,” Mr Jackson’s family stated.

“He died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his family,” the statement noted.

Paying tribute to his legacy, the family described Mr Jackson as an agent of change, who committed himself to justice and human rights activism.

The family stated, “His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity.

“A tireless change agent, he elevated the voices of the voiceless from his Presidential campaigns in the 1980s to mobilising millions to register to vote, leaving an indelible mark on history.”

The family urged the public to honour the deceased civil rights activist “by continuing the fight for the values he lived.”

“We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by,” it said.

Born on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina and an ally of the late civil rights activist, Martin Luther King Jr.

He was widely regarded for his role towards increasing consciousness and participation of African-Americans in the country’s politics.

Earlier diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017, Mr Jackson suffered progressive supranuclear palsy, a neurological disorder, last November.

During his lifetime, Mr Jackson, a Democrat, attempted the U.S. presidency twice, in 1984 and 1988, but fell short of being the party flag bearer.

He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.