It is with deep sadness that we announce that Kelly Dean Jackson, 68, of Asheville, NC passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025 in Asheville, NC. Born on March 22, 1957, in Junction City, KS to the late Al Jackson and Virginia Jackson. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Kathy Jackson and Kris Jackson of Abilene, KS.
Before settling in Asheville, NC, Kelly lived in Hays, KS, Goose Creek, SC, and Wichita Falls, TX. He attended Hays High School and went to Trident Technical Community College where he earned his HVAC certification.
Kelly proudly served in the United States Navy as a boiler technician and later worked as a dedicated and skilled contractor and mechanical service engineer. He was widely known for his work ethic, wisdom, and athleticism and he took pride in everything that he did whether it was a construction job, playing city league softball, or being an inspiring father.
Kelly always found joy in life’s simple pleasures, whether it was tinkering around the house, going to an airshow, catching a game, feeling the thrill of riding go-karts with his son, or watching fireworks with his granddaughter. Kelly also gave back to the local community through coaching youth sports and volunteering at his church by providing maintenance and repair services.
Kelly was a beloved father and survived by his only son, Karl Jackson (Stephanie) of Russell, MA, his siblings; Kerry Jackson (Cindy) of Lincoln, KS, Kenny Jackson (Stacey) of Osborne, KS, Kevin Jackson of Salina, KS, his grandchildren; Gracie Jackson (8) of Russell, MA, and Amelia Jackson (1 month) of Russell, MA, his Stepmother Karen Jackson of Springfield, MO, and many nieces and nephews.
There will be a private service held on Folly Beach, South Carolina on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 9:00 A.M. Friends and family wishing to attend the service should kindly reach out to his son, Karl Jackson.
Those wishing to honor Kelly Jackson’s memory can send their condolences or any expressions of sympathy to his son, Karl Jackson at 27 Park Circle, Russell, MA 01071. In lieu of flowers, we encourage any friends and family wishing to honor Kelly to make a small donation to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church of 712 Wappoo Road, Charleston, SC 29407.
We will forever cherish the memories of Kelly as a Proud Father, Strong Brother, Committed Friend, Inspiring Mentor, and Distinguished Veteran and the love he shared with all of us.
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