Donald Matthew Jackson

I'm so glad our paths crossed. Entertaining as a DJ for his stroke recovery group or family parties never seemed like work to me - he always made me feel like a welcome member of the group or family. Then when he joined the administration at Marcola School District I had the opportunity to learn so much from him. I know that everyobody who knew Don, like me, was enriched by his presence.

Aw Don Jackson, you were simply the best! Perhaps the only person who made me feel human at that age. So glad I got to see you at my 30th. My heart has a special place for your memory.

The day I heard of DJ's death, it snowed in Nebraska. As I walked my dog, I remembered Don's annual admonishment: Don't eat yellow snow!

Don's faith and trust in me, gave me room to grow as a student leader and as an individual.

With much love and great memories, we have sent him to meet Jesus face-to-face.

As a colleague, I always admired Don for his enthusiasm and integrity. He was 4-J's and South Eugene High's biggest cheer leader. And the kids always came first. Unfortunately, I was never in the same building with Don. My teaching years were spent at Jefferson (then)Junior High and Junction City High School. After earning my administrative certification I applied for a vice principal position at South. Don broke the news to me that I was a close second. I would have loved to work with him,...

Don came and spoke to my class at our 20th reunion this summer. It was wonderful to see him again, and I was so glad I had a chance to sit and chat with him for a few minutes, letting him know what he meant to me. He was always all smiles at school, saying hello to everyone who walked down the hall, always in purple. Rumor had it there was a reward for anyone catching him without purple on, and as far as I know, nobody ever did. Recent stories amongst my class pointed to his honesty, his...

I was on the Marcola School Board and knew we had been given a gift when we hired him! He was an advocate for every student and put his whole heart into what he believed in, never compromising his values. My favorite memories include his drop-in table-talk visits at our country home- him sharing his passions and concerns about issues we faced. He loved to celebrate "the moment" and I was honored when he grabbed my hand and walked me out on the gym floor (in Baker City before the State...

Don spoke at our SEHS Class of 1980 30th reunion a couple of years ago and gave a thoughtful and entertaining look back at a eventful time that included a teacher strike, a purple cowboy hat, and so on. I could tell from the effort he put into the speech that his work meant a great deal to him. I am not surprised to read in his obituary that he was a great family man. I got the impression that he valued people from all walks of life.

Don was one of a kind and a special friend in our lives for so long. He made an indelible mark on this community with his fearless advocacy for kids. I will cherish the memories of the fun we had together with him and Jan. He will be missed.

This guy touched the lives of people who didn't even know him. I marveled as I read articles in the RG about his career as an educator and all the goodness he spread. You made the world a better place, Mr. Jackson.