Chad Michael Jackson's Obituary
Chad Michael Jackson, age 50, of Gilmer, Texas, passed away on January 16, 2025, in Tyler, Texas. Chad was born on May 16, 1974, to Mary Ellen Harris McCarty in Denver, Colorado. Chad was adopted by William Wayne Jackson after Mary and Wayne married.
Chad grew up in Arvada, Colorado. He attended Arvada schools, including Arvada Senior High School. He and his family moved to Flint, Texas, before his senior year, and he graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Tyler. He attended Tyler Junior College and then went on to graduate from International Driving School. He was an over the road truck driver for 27 years working for FFE, TJ Blackburn Syrup Works, Alan Ritchey Inc., Sam Dunn Enterprises, and Master Woodcraft Cabinetry. Chad drove over 2.5 million miles through the 48 contiguous states, including Mexico and Canada.
He married the love of his life, Jana Rene' Cole, on September 11, 1999, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Longview. They were married 25 years on this last anniversary.
Chad was meant to be a Dad, and, man, was he a proud Daddy for both girls. Erin and Keva were his world. He was one of the original Girl Dads. He was a softball dad, soccer dad, Girl Scout dad and most importantly, a dance dad. He attended many games, dance recitals,and competitions over the years. Always present despite his job.
Chad was preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents, Mary and Wayne Jackson, and his father-in-law, Jackie Cole.
Chad is survived by his beloved wife, Jana Jackson, his greatest blessings, his daughters, Erin Jackson and Keva Jackson, his mother-in-law, Dorothy Cole of Gilmer, Texas, his uncle, Jerry McCarty of Lakewood, Colorado, his step-grandmother, Tammy McCarty of Castle Rock, Colorado, his cousins, and his tight circle of friends.
Services are under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Longview. The family will receive family and friends Thursday evening, January 23rd, from 5-8 pm in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will be held Friday morning, January 24th at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home.
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