Paul Jackson went to be in the eternal presence of the Lord Jesus on December 23rd, 2021 after succumbing to injuries due to a fall.
Paul was born in New York City on July 26th, 1949 as the eldest of seven to Evelyn and Joseph Jackson. Paul found an early love of the outdoors through Boy Scouts, later earning the Eagle Scout honor with the Order of the Arrow. Paul wrote and played his own music in his early 20s and after finding God, he spent a short time traveling as a gospel musician. Paul worked 47 years for Bell Systems, during which time, he was a lineman, a K-Hut technician, and a Central Office Technician, retiring and moving to Idaho in his later years. Paul met his wife Barbara Fredrickson in 1975 while on a ski vacation and they quickly fell in love writing letters and sharing long-distance calls.
Paul appreciated music, movies, being outdoors, WWII history, and he enjoyed adventuring in the American West. He was a regular fixture in his local church and community and had a heart for the poor and single mothers. He was always eager to lend his handyman knowledge, and he was able to fix just about anything to working order. He was well-known for his conversational skills and his generosity. His children will remember his pocket protectors and pencils, always ready to take a note on a post-it.
Our family wishes to extend thanks to many: our neighbors Bruce and Ruthie, those who cared for him at St. Alphonsus Medical Center, and our family and friends who have comforted us during this painful time. Psalm 116:15 states “Precious and of great consequence in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints, and so He watches over them,” and we take comfort in the knowledge that Paul knew Jesus and that he’s now standing in His presence.
Paul leaves behind his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara, his children Andrew Jackson, Matt (Sarah) Jackson, and Rebekah (Joshua) Van Rhee, his granddaughter Lizzy Jackson, and his younger siblings Valerie, Madeline, Joanne, John, Mike, and Steve.
Paul was interred at Larkin Sunset Gardens in Sandy, Utah in a private family ceremony. Two Memorial Services are planned - one in Bluffdale, Utah, at Midvalley Bible Church, and one at Crouch Community Church in Crouch, Idaho. Both will be scheduled at a later date.
