Edward “Neal” Jackson, 76, of Loogootee, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at home with his loving wife by his side.
Born on December 8, 1949, he was the beloved son of Johnie and Edna (Bruner) Jackson. He married Marion Jackson on April 11, 2011.
Neal had a zeal for life and lived it to the fullest. He took pride in his long military career starting in the Army in 1968 and proudly served his country in Vietnam. Neal transitioned to the Marine Corp and retired after 31 years of service with the rank of Captain.
A lifelong learner, he graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Mathematics. He went on to earn an education degree from Vincennes University as well as a nursing degree, becoming an RN. As a testament to his Christian faith he studied theology at St. Meinrad and was an Oblate. Neal served his community as a Knight and member of the K of C in Washington, Indiana; Men’s Club member of St. Peter Catholic Church; worked tirelessly at the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry. A lover of nature with an adventurous spirit, he hiked both the Appalachian Trail and the Camino in Santiago Spain; cycled coast to coast twice, riding both the Northern and Southern route.
Neal was preceded in death by his parents and will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Marion; his children: Garri (Tim) Jackson-Mace and Aaron (Nannet) Jackson; Grandchildren: Isaac (Jolene) Jackson, Audra (Cody) Anthony, Lianne Jackson, and Skylar Mace; 2 great-grandchildren; Siblings: Karen (Bob) Enlow, Joy (David) Stien, Renee (David) George, and several nieces and nephews. His influence and love for his extended family was a demonstration of his love for His God and Savior.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10 a.m. by Very Rev. J. Kenneth Walker at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Loogootee, Indiana. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Blake Funeral Home in Loogootee, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers memorial gift donations may be made to St. Meinrad in memory of Neal, by filling out an online form at www.saintmeinrad.edu/support-us/ways-to-give/, or by calling 1-812-357-6501, or by mailing Saint Meinrad Archabbey and Seminary & School of Theology Development office 200 Hill Drive, St. Meinrad, Indiana 47577, or in person at visitation.
Blake Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Neal Jackson.
Online condolences can be made at www.blakefuneralhomes.com
