Rickie Jackson

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Rickie "Rick" Charles Jackson, a beloved husband, father, son, and veteran, passed away peacefully at his residence on April 24, 2026. Born on May 19, 1951, in Tampa, Florida, Rickie’s life was a rich tapestry of dedication, love, and adventure that touched all who knew him.

Raised in Central Florida, Rickie attended high school locally and pursued an associate’s degree in electronics technology, laying the foundation for his future career. His professional life was marked by his work as a communications engineer in the cable television industry—a role that reflected his deep technical expertise and commitment to connecting people and communities. Throughout his life, his journey took him to many places including Talladega, Alabama; Anderson, Fishers, Richmond, and Centerville, Indiana during the 1990s; St. Joseph and Atlanta, Michigan; and finally, to Cookeville, Tennessee in 2019, where he found a place to call home in his later years.

Rickie’s service to his country was a defining chapter of his life. A proud United States Army veteran, he faithfully served during the Vietnam War and remained connected to the veteran community as a member of American Legion Post 135. His sense of duty, honor, and pride in his military service never waned and was a source of strength and identity throughout his life.

Beyond his professional and military life, Rickie was a man of varied interests and passions. He loved boating and all water sports, embracing the freedom and serenity they brought to his spirit. Photography was another cherished hobby, through which he captured moments, memories, and the beauty of the world around him, sharing his unique perspective with family and friends.

Family was at the heart of Rickie’s world. He shared 55 years of marriage with his devoted wife, Delores Jackson, who stood steadfastly by his side. Together, they raised a loving family. Rickie is survived by his daughter Bethany McAhren and son, Raymond Jackson and his wife Dionne Jackson. Their bond was one of warmth, laughter, and unwavering support—a testament to the life Rickie dedicated to those he loved.

Throughout the years, the family's love spread with arrival of grandchildren, Stephen Reed, Christina Reed, Anthony Reed, Caleb Graham, Victoria Clark, Joseph Jackson, Ryan Jackson and Matthew Jackson; great grandchildren Allana Clark, Kara Clark, Riley Jackson and Taylor Jackson, Willow Reed, Cooper Reed, Rayleigh Reed, Caden Haynes & Rylee Haynes.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Oscar B. Jackson and Helena C. Ballard Jackson, whose legacy lives on in his character and values. He also mourned the loss of his siblings: sisters Linda Garner, Sharon Cooper, Betty Jackson, and Barbara Guest, as well as his brother, Richard Jackson. Though these losses weighed heavily, Rickie’s enduring spirit was buoyed by the loving presence of his remaining family.

A graveside service with military honors celebrating Rickie’s life will be held on April 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. (EDT) at Chattanooga National Cemetery, located at 1200 Bailey Avenue, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37404. This gathering will honor a man whose life embodied courage, hard work, and love, and whose memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.