Norman, Oklahoma - Jim was born on May 29, 1948, to Carl and Marcella Jackson, in Avondale, Arizona. He departed this life on September 8, 2025, in Norman, Ok., at the age of 77. He lived a life marked by ingenuity, exploration and unwavering determination.

At the age of 4, he was stricken with polio. He attended school at Bowlegs, McLish Public School, Latta Public School, and graduated from Vanoss Public School in 1967. After high school he attended Okmulgee Tech. He later graduated from Murray State College with a degree in Electronics and Engineering and then went on to attain a double Masters in electronics and avionics. In 1985 he began working for General Dynamics later known as Lockheed Martin, with a focus on avionics and futuristic design, creating and designing cockpits for fighter jets. He made numerous overseas trips showcasing and representing the work he had a direct hand in designing. Jim's adventurous spirit also led him to become both a Master Diver and a licensed pilot.

He spent his early adult years focusing on raising and providing for his two children, Shawn Jackson and Deana Jackson Bowes. In 1985, while attending TCU he met the love of his life Donna Patterson. They were married in December of 1986. They remained in Benbrook, Texas until 2003 when they retired and moved to Stratford, Ok to live a quiet country life. His one true passion was to serve his Lord and Savior and he enjoyed being a substitute teacher at the Stratford Public School for 21 years, gardening and having chicken pets. For health reasons he had spent the last two years of his life living with his sister, Deborah, in Norman, Ok.

Jim is survived by his children, Shawn Jackson (Jennifer) and Deana Bowes (Leon). Grandchildren Justin Jackson, Reisa Jackson, Keaton Lynn Dixon, Shawn Dell Jackson, Ricky Ogg, Steffanee Ogg and 4 great grandchildren. Sisters, Betty Schafer and Deborah Gentry (David).

He was preceded by parents Carl and Marcella Jackson, wife Donna Jackson, sister Rita "Cookie" Branscum.

He will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, brilliant mind and quiet strength with which he lived his life. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the innovations he contributed to, and the many lives he touched along the way. He will be deeply missed but forever honored.