Darrel Edward Jackson

Darrel Edward Jackson, affectionately known as “Big Cookie”, passed away in Nashville, TN on January 22, 2026, after a short illness. He was surrounded by his loved ones and friends both in person and in spirit. Darrel was preceded in death by his parents Edward Ray Jackson and Mozella Jackson, and his loving wife Anna. Darrel was privileged to have a second special relationship with Gail Buchannan until she passed away. Darrel enjoyed life to its fullest and was especially proud of his two Granddaughters Anna and Leah Jackson. If you talked to him more than a minute he would likely spend the time telling you about them and their swim meets.

Cookie grew up in West Norton, Virginia, the only child of a hard-working father and loving mother. He loved to tell stories about growing up in a small town, including going to school in Dorchester, accompanying his father to work, stealing dynamite, and even sneaking sips of home brew.

Cookie served in Vietnam in the Army as a combat engineer. While he was there, he proposed to Anna by mailing a diamond ring in a coffee can halfway around the world (the diamond that Sam later gave to Jessica). He worked as an electrician for many years, both in the coal mines and building roads and installing power lines for mines. As he got close to retirement, he bought a “little place” near Cherokee Lake where he and Gail spent a lot of time on their boat and sitting on the porch. He loved to make homemade ice cream when Anna and Leah came to visit the lake and always made sure there was a steady supply of Little Debbie Fancy Cakes and biscuits and gravy for breakfast. Cookie loved a fresh Grainger County tomato, a thick sliced bologna sandwich, a biscuit with sausage and mustard, cornbread, and a cold Michelob Ultra.

Cookie enjoyed spending time with his fellow Shriners Hospital. He was a constant fixture at the lodge and was always there when it was time for a fundraising dinner. He specialized in making the fire for the smoker, drinking Michelob Ultra, and telling stories while his brothers were cooking.

Darrel is survived by his son, Sam Jackson, daughter-in-law, Jessica (Roark) Jackson, in Nashville Tennessee and his two granddaughters Anna Jackson in Smithfield, Rhode Island at Bryant University, and Leah Jackson in Sewanee, Tennessee at Sewanee, The University of The South.

His friends and Brothers at the Wise County Shrine Club were his constant companions. His brothers, Tony Bartone, Don Adams and Ray Watson took care of him and looked out for him until the very end. The family would like to thank each of them for caring for Darrel during his last days in Norton. He would tell each of you all to have a big time and stay out of trouble.

Darrel will be cremated according to his wishes. The family will arrange a memorial service and party at the Wise County Shrine Club this Summer. In the meantime, we invite everyone to crack open a Michelob Ultra and have a toast for Darrel. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the Wise County Shrine Club, PO Box 611 Norton, VA 24273.