John Ruben Jackson, Jr., a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, in Paragould, Arkansas. Born on November 6, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, John lived a life enriched by family love, service, and a passion for the simple joys that made his days meaningful.

A proud Army veteran, John served in Germany during the 1960s, demonstrating his steadfast dedication to his country. His discipline and commitment extended beyond his military service to his personal interests. John was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and took great pleasure in following their games. His love for music flourished with his deep appreciation for The Beatles, attending two of their concerts.

John’s hobbies were varied and reflected a man who embraced life fully. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, carpentry, movies, and reading. His craftsmanship and attention to detail in carpentry were matched by his compassionate care for animals; he was known as an animal lover and devoted caretaker of his dogs. His faith was a cornerstone, and he was a member of Central Baptist Church in Paragould, where he found community and spiritual solace.

His family remained at the heart of John’s life. He loved his wife dearly, Edna Lee Jones, who passed away before him, and after her passing, he always kept a picture of the two of them close by, a symbol of their enduring bond.

John’s presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was a figure of strength, warmth, and kindness—a man who took joy in the happiness of his family and friends. One treasured memory many hold dear is John's annual tradition of dressing up as Santa Claus and visiting his grandchildren each Christmas, bringing cheer and festivity to the season.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Ruben and Jewell Jackson; his wife, Edna Lee Jones; his sons, John Jackson, III and Lawrence Wayne Jackson; sister, Sharyn Denney; and brother, Phillip Jackson.

John is lovingly survived by his daughters, Teresa Butler and her husband Rob, and Cyndi Hoots and her husband Jason. He was a proud grandfather to Brittany Hall (Shaynen), Nathan Fisher, Johnathon Cook, Cameron Cook, Jeremy Jackson (Gabriella), Caitlyn Cain (Parker), Cassie Sullinger (Blake), Katlynne Hoots, Christian Fisher, Christopher Logan Fisher, Alexander Fisher, Reagan Fisher, Grace Fisher, Malori Butler (Michael), and Channing Butler. His legacy grows through his great-grandchildren Kashton Lewis, Creed Lewis, Jaylin Hall, Landon Fisher, Ryland Fisher, Kennedy Fisher, Collin Fisher, Willow Cain, Holland Cain, and Kaluer Roswell. John's siblings who survive him include his brother, David Jackson and his wife Tina, as well as his sisters, Carol Luetkemeyer and her husband Pat, and Paula Fivecoat.

Visitation for John Ruben Jackson, Jr. will be held at Phillips Funeral Home on Monday, June 22, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Kim Bridges officiating. Burial will follow at Cardwell Cemetery.

Johnathon Cook, Cameron Cook, Nathan Fisher, Christian Fisher, Logan Fisher, and Shaynen Hall will serve as pallbearers. Kashton Lewis and Creed Lewis will serve as honorary pallbearers.