Robert Jackson

Robert Lee "Bob" Jackson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 25, 2026, in Yulee, Florida, at the age of 98. Born on September 20, 1927, in Kaw, Oklahoma, Bob lived a remarkable life defined by service, dedication, and an enduring love for family and community.

Bob graduated from Oklahoma State University in June 1952 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. During his time at OSU, he was a proud member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity and remained deeply connected to his alma mater as a Life Member of the OSU Alumni Association. He lived by The Cowboy Code throughout his life.

A Navy veteran, Bob served on active duty from 1945 to 1946 and continued in the Reserves until 1954. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished 37-year career with Western Electric and AT&T. His work spanned military electronics, telecommunications, and advanced technologies. Among his many accomplishments were contributions to the Safeguard Antiballistic Missile System and worldwide ocean cable operations. Later in his career, Bob led an advanced technology business unit, growing it from inception to over $10 million in sales. After retiring from corporate life, he served as a consultant to Sandia National Laboratories, helping transition cutting-edge technologies from research to real-world applications.

Bob's professional achievements were matched by his commitment to community and service. A longtime member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), he chaired the NC Council from 1988 to 1989 and authored their newsletter for many years. In retirement, he volunteered as campaign manager for US Congressman Steve Schiff and later served as campaign manager for Heather Wilson.

Faith played an important role in Bob's life. Baptized in the Moravian Church, he later became a member of the United Church of Christ. He and his wife, Marie Xefteris Jackson, were also active members of Spiritual Frontier Fellowship and the Institute of Noetic Sciences.

In addition to his wife Marie, Bob is survived by his daughters Melissa Thomas (Rock Thomas), Desiree Henry (Russell Henry), Kelly (Chaparro) Jackson, Suanne Jackson, Patricia Foglia (Bob Foglia), Jean Marie Jackson; sister Donna Rae Rubin; mother-in-law Katherine I. Zefteris; brother-in-law Capt. Constantine Zefteris (Kathleen "Pixie"); sister-in-law Diane French (Lawrence "Larry"); and countless extended family members.

He was predeceased by his mother Helen Margaret Jackson; father Harry Swartwood; stepfather Charles Henry Jackson; brothers Phillip Gene Jackson and Charles Henry Jackson Jr.; stepbrother William Charles Jackson; sisters Lila Faye Couch and Doris Pearl Harris; father-in-law Capt. Zefter C. Zefteris; and brother-in-law Phillip Alexander Zefteris.

Bob found his greatest joy in spending time with family and friends. He especially treasured time with his daughters and their families, taking immense pride in his grandchildren —Brooke Quinn Jackson; Cassidy Lynette Schleimer-Jackson; Russell Eugene Henry Jr.; Rock Alexander Thomas; Dominick Evin Thomas; Anthony Giovanni Chaparro; Robert Douglas Henry; Ryan Gabriel Henry; Thaddaeus Zefter Chaparro—and his great-granddaughter Emerie Lynette Jackson.

He cherished days along the coast in Virginia Beach, enjoyed many rounds of golf, and was a devoted—if unofficial—Budweiser ambassador. One of his favorite sayings was, "In beer there is happiness, in wine there is wisdom, and in water there is bacteria." —he brought laughter wherever he went.

Bob loved his life in Albuquerque, where he could often be found relaxing in his hot tub watching the sunset over the Sandia Mountains, or spending time with his friend and neighbor, Pat, watching the tram go up and down the mountain. He was a self-taught guitarist who found great joy in music. He loved playing and singing with his good friend, George Bryant, his daughters and granddaughter, and anyone else who would join in.

For more than 50 years, Bob faithfully supported ChildFund International as part of his lifelong commitment to giving back. His generosity extended beyond financial contributions—he was always ready to lend a hand or offer support to anyone in need.

Soft-spoken yet deeply impactful, Bob will be remembered for his gentle spirit, kindness, integrity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date to honor Bob's extraordinary life. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.