Obituary
Derrell Gene Jackson, 83, of Springfield, Missouri passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. He was born on Friday, September 20, 1940 in Fair Grove, MO to Claude and Beatrice Jackson.
Derrell graduated from Fair Grove High School in 1959. He proudly served 20 years in the United States Navy as a Flight Engineer, working primarily onboard the P3 Orion aircraft. During his service, Derrell was stationed all over the world, with notable tours of duty in Japan, Vietnam, and Rota, Spain. He retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer (E8) 20 years to the day after enlisting. After retiring from the Navy, he enjoyed a long civilian career with Mid-America Dairy Farmers, where he oversaw the release and development of Starbucks’ bottled Frappuccino and Enfamil baby formula. In retirement, Derrell found great enjoyment in refinishing items for his flea market booths, repairing electronic devices and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 58 years, Linda Gayle (Dean) Jackson and one brother Byron Jackson.
Derrell is survived by his three children Lisa, Mark and Tamara, one sister Martha Kissee, five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.
Funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Monday, April 22, 2024 at the Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel, 5234 W. State Hwy EE, Springfield, MO 65802 with full Military honors to follow at White Chapel Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the charitable foundation of your choice. Online condolences can be made at www.klingnerfuneralhome.com