Loogootee Resident Neal Jackson Dies at 76

Decorated military veteran and lifelong learner leaves behind a legacy of service and adventure.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Edward 'Neal' Jackson, a 76-year-old resident of Loogootee, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2026 with his loving wife by his side. Born in 1949, Neal had a distinguished military career spanning 31 years in the Army and Marine Corps, including service in the Vietnam War. He was also a lifelong learner, earning degrees from Purdue University, Vincennes University, and St. Meinrad, and working as an RN. Neal was deeply involved in his community, serving as a Knight and member of the K of C, Men's Club member of St. Peter Catholic Church, and volunteer at the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry. An adventurous spirit, he hiked the Appalachian Trail and Camino in Santiago, Spain, and cycled coast-to-coast twice.

Why it matters

Neal Jackson's life exemplifies the values of service, education, and community engagement that are important to many in the Loogootee area. His passing is a loss for the local community, which has seen him make significant contributions over the decades through his military service, volunteer work, and lifelong pursuit of knowledge.

The details

Neal Jackson had a distinguished 31-year military career, serving in both the Army and Marine Corps, including a tour in the Vietnam War. After retiring from the military, he pursued higher education, earning degrees in mathematics, education, and nursing. He was deeply involved in his local Catholic church and community, volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry and serving in leadership roles with the Knights of Columbus and Men's Club. An adventurous outdoorsman, Neal hiked the Appalachian Trail and Camino de Santiago in Spain, and cycled across the country twice.

  • Neal Jackson was born on December 8, 1949.
  • He married Marion Jackson on April 11, 2011.
  • Neal Jackson passed away on February 14, 2026.
  • His funeral mass will be held on February 21, 2026.
  • Visitation will be on February 20, 2026 from 4pm to 8pm.

The players

Neal Jackson

A 76-year-old resident of Loogootee, Indiana who had a distinguished 31-year military career and was deeply involved in his local community.

Marion Jackson

Neal Jackson's loving wife who was by his side when he passed away.

Johnie and Edna (Bruner) Jackson

Neal Jackson's parents.

Garri (Tim) Jackson-Mace and Aaron (Nannet) Jackson

Neal Jackson's children.

Very Rev. J. Kenneth Walker

The priest who will celebrate Neal Jackson's funeral mass.

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What’s next

Neal Jackson's funeral mass and burial will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Neal Jackson's life was defined by his service, faith, and commitment to community. His passing is a loss for the Loogootee area, but his legacy of selflessness and adventure will continue to inspire those who knew him.