BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns coach Hue Jackson is mourning the deaths of his mother and brother in the past two weeks.

Betty Lee Jackson, 83, died Sunday in Los Angeles, the Browns confirmed Wednesday night. She had been ill for some time. John Jackson Jr. died unexpectedly two weeks ago.

"It's been a difficult period of time for me but everyone has to go through this in life," Jackson said in a statement through the Browns on Thursday. "It's not easy but I always try to focus on the fond memories I've shared with the people I've lost and that helps get you through it. Dee, Jimmy, our players, coaches and really the entire organization have been so supportive and that helps.

"We're a close-knit group, this is a family and I'm so appreciative of everyone's support."

Jackson will remain with the team until his mother's funeral, which will take place after the Browns' preseason opener against the New York Giants on Aug. 9. Jackson had been flying to see his mother when he could.

"It's been really tough on him," Jackson's agent, John Thornton, told Cleveland.com. "He's just trying to let football help him out."

"The people closest to him know what's been going on, and they know he hasn't been himself. Being busy with football has helped, but it's still been extremely difficult."