Robert "Bob" Jackson

Robert Jackson, affectionately known as Bob, passed away, on August 14, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 86. Born in Langston, Oklahoma to the parents of William Jackson and Vera Young, Bob lived a full and vibrant life marked by his charisma, love for sports, and dedication to his family and career.

Bob graduated from Langston High School before furthering his education at Langston University and Wichita State University. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force stationed at Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His military tenure instilled in him a discipline and camaraderie that he carried throughout his life.

Professionally, Bob's career was as dynamic as his personality. He worked across various industries, including aerospace and technology. His roles included Electronic Technician at Boeing Aircraft Company, Programmer Analyst at McDonnell Douglas, and various managerial positions at Control Data Corporation and Northern State Power (NSP).

Bob's personal life was equally rich. He was married to Rosalee Blackwell for 23 years and later to Christine Jackson for 31 years until her passing. He found joy in watching and playing sports-football, basketball, tennis, softball, and racquetball were among his favorites. In his later years, he took pleasure in golf, bocce ball, and card games, always surrounded by friends. A world traveler and an ever-social spirit, Bob loved road trips and cherished moments with family and friends.

He is survived by a loving family, including his sons Robert Jackson II and Marc Jackson; daughters Wanda Austin, Cheryl (Miguel) Jackson and Tamara Jackson; step-sons David Adams and Richard (Farrah) Adams; half-sisters Beverly Williams, Sherry Jackson-Ponder, Jacqueline Jackson; half brothers Middland Jackson, Darryl Williams; grandchildren Damitria Butler, Marline Butler, Tameka Hall, Michael (Marina) Jackson, Leah Jackson, Deja Jackson, Ciara Benjamin; step-grandchildren Mailk Blackwell, Kolbe Adams, Alexis Adams; great grandchildren Ashley, Jzmarre, Nya, Tyree, Amare, Zyair, Qualik, Maya Jackson, Maliyah Jackson; great-great grandchildren Sencere, Christan, Carter, Kasin, Kyrie, Jzmarre and a host of nieces, nephews and friends

Preceding him in death were his parents, his wives Christine Jackson and Rosalee Blackwell, step-son Darrell Blackwell, siblings Lorraine Sullivan, Helen Jackson, Vivian Madison, Lois Jackson, William Jackson Jr., and Otis Williams (half-brother) and grandson Rickey Butler.

A memorial service to celebrate Bob's life will be held in Oklahoma at a later date. Bob's life was a testament to the joy of making each moment count, and he will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.