‘Salvation Army Man’ Alan Jessop OAM Dies at 95: Canberra’s Beloved Volunteer Remembered
Alan Frederick Jessop OAM, the longtime Salvation Army volunteer affectionately known as “The Salvos Man,” has passed away at the age of 95. A fixture at the Canberra Centre for over three decades, Jessop raised more than $4 million for the organization’s programs and initiatives in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) before his death on May 15, 2026.
A Life of Service and Community
Jessop’s dedication to the Salvation Army began in the 1990s, and for more than 30 years, he collected donations three days a week at the Canberra Centre. Despite battling health challenges, including cancer, he remained committed to his role until the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted his efforts. His resilience and community spirit earned him widespread admiration, culminating in two major honors: the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and recognition as an ACT Local Hero in 2011.
“I am so grateful to my doctors and nurses, everyone at Woden Hospital [now Canberra Hospital], for keeping me well enough to collect for so long. Getting up, going to work, talking with people was what kept me going.”
Jessop’s work extended beyond fundraising. He was known for engaging with shoppers, handing out stickers to children, and sharing moments of warmth—like offering hot chocolates to those in need. His granddaughter, Emma, recalled his joy in seeing media coverage of his contributions, noting, “Every time something was shared about him, Alan was very interested to discover the comments that had been shared. He was genuinely so pleased to know that people still remembered him and thought of him fondly.”
Legacy of Kindness and Resilience
Though Jessop never used a mobile phone or the internet, his impact on Canberra’s social fabric was undeniable. His grandson, James, described him as having “a kind heart” and being “a fixture in the community.” Jessop’s story reflects the power of small, consistent acts of kindness—collecting spare change, fostering connections, and embodying the Salvation Army’s mission of compassion.
Honors and Recognition
- 2011: Named an ACT Local Hero for his community contributions.
- 2022: Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his service to the Salvation Army and the ACT.
- Lifetime: Raised over $4 million for Salvation Army programs in the ACT.
Remembering Alan Jessop
Jessop’s passing marks the end of an era for many Canberrans who knew him as a cheerful presence in their daily lives. His story serves as a reminder of how individuals, through persistence and heart, can leave an enduring mark on their communities. The Salvation Army has not yet announced plans for a public memorial, but tributes are expected to pour in from across the ACT.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Alan Jessop OAM?
A longtime Salvation Army volunteer in Canberra who collected donations for over 30 years, raising more than $4 million for the organization’s programs in the ACT.
What were Alan Jessop’s major honors?
He was named an ACT Local Hero in 2011 and received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2022.
How did Alan Jessop impact Canberra’s community?
Beyond fundraising, he was known for his interactions with locals—distributing stickers to children, offering hot chocolates, and fostering a sense of connection in the Canberra Centre.
When did Alan Jessop pass away?
He died peacefully in the early hours of May 15, 2026, at Canberra Hospital.
Key Takeaways
- Alan Jessop OAM dedicated over 30 years to the Salvation Army in Canberra, raising $4 million+ for charity.
- He was honored as an ACT Local Hero (2011) and received an OAM (2022) for his service.
- Jessop’s legacy includes his kindness, resilience, and the lasting connections he forged in the Canberra community.
- His passing on May 15, 2026, at age 95, marks the end of an era for many Canberrans.