Thomas Jackson

Thomas Jackson, age 70 years, a resident of rural Simpson, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly Monday evening, February 10, 2025, at 9:33 P.M. at his home. Thomas was born March 11, 1954 in East St. Louis, Illinois. He was the eldest of two sons born to Thomas F. Jackson and Marian (May) Jackson. Thomas was united in marriage to Gladys M. (Keller) Jackson and they shared over 45 years of marriage together. In addition to his wife, Thomas is survived by his mother: Marian (May) Jackson-Bradford of Marion, Illinois; a stepson: Christopher (Wanna) Hessler of Honokaa, Hawaii; a stepdaughter: Jeanette Peters of South Charleston, Ohio; 2 grandchildren: Canzada and Ryan; a brother: Steve (Ann) Jackson of Belleville, Illinois; a dear cousin: Deborah (Bill) Engel of Sun City West, Arizona; his faithful German Shepard companion – Delilah; as well as a host of friends and beloved church family. In addition to his father, Thomas was preceded in death by his step-father: J.W. Bradford. Thomas attended Ranken Technical College in Perryville, Missouri. Throughout his career, he worked as a diesel mechanic and served as a fleet manager for Pepsi MidAmerica in Marion, Illinois for 10 years. Thomas had a passion for life and a wide range of hobbies that reflected his adventurous and hardworking spirit. He was an avid horseback rider who trained and raised horses. His love for nature extended to cultivating orchids in his greenhouse, and he was a proud former member of the Orchid Society in both St. Louis and Missouri. A dedicated beekeeper, he maintained over 50 hives and sold honey to local grocery stores. After moving to Southern Illinois, he embraced farming, learning to bale hay and care for the land. Thomas was a member of the Vienna Masonic Lodge #150 A.F. & A.M. and a former member of the Saline County Masonic Lodge #339 A.F. & A.M. In his younger years, Thomas excelled in baseball, playing in high school and for the American Legion, where he set a record for the most home runs on his team. He also pursued motocross and held a professional racing license. His passion for the outdoors began early, as he started coon hunting at just three years old. He also enjoyed fishing. Additionally, he was a proud member of the Teamster Local Union #682 in St. Louis. No matter what Thomas set his mind to, he pursued it with dedication and excellence. Thomas was a member and had recently been appointed as an elder at the Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Funeral services will be held Monday afternoon, February 17, 2025, at 1 P.M. at Gilead Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 4385 Gilead Church Road, Simpson, Illinois. The ceremony will begin with Masonic rites conducted by Vienna Masonic Lodge # 150 A.F. & A.M. The funeral service will follow. Pastor Doug Hughes will officiate. Burial will be in the Gilead Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday, February 17, 2025, from 11 A.M. until the service time at 1 P.M. Memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children, 4400 Clayton Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110.

Thomas Jackson

March 11, 1954 - February 10, 2025