Ray Allen Jackson

Ray Allen Jackson, age 78, passed on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at NEA Hospital in Jonesboro. Being a private person, few knew the extent of his health issues. He dealt with heart disease and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis for over 10 years. A special thanks to Dr. Anthony White, Dr. Owen Criner and Ceil Massey for their diligent care of Ray.

Ray was born on August 27, 1941 to Ralph and Edith Jackson of Paragould. He was a lifelong resident of Paragould and a 1959 graduate of Greene County Tech. Ray married Wanda Matthews on May 25, 1974. He completed a 45 year work career at Emerson Electric in the die shop. Ray always felt fortunate to have worked with a good group of guys.

He lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures: visiting family and friends, trading stories with other car enthusiasts, short trips, especially Branson. Ray was an avid WWII history buff. Having a tender heart towards animals, he was known to have rescued many "fur babies".

Ray is survived by his wife of 46 year, Wanda Jackson; daughters and spouses, Audra (Ricky) Tucker and Allison (Dusty) Fletcher; grandchildren, Ellie Jo and Andy Ray Fletcher; sisters, Shirley Redwine, Betty Yearry and Carolyn (Larrell) Austin; nieces and nephews, Sharlene Giles, Jane Blackenship, Randy Blanton, Dempsey Yearry, Jeanina Smith, Judith Tripp, Todd, Trent, and Terry Austin.

Preceding Ray in death were his parents and brothers-in-law, Max Redwine and Leo Yearry.

Lasting memorials may be given to Greater Vision Ministries or The Paragould Children's Home.

There will be a private burial Monday, May 11, 2020 under the direction of Heath Funeral Home.