Donald Jackson

Donald Dean Jackson of Billings, MT passed away at home on July 18th, 2024.

Don was born on December 11th, 1956, to Marie and Vernon Jackson. He was born in Lewiston, MT but grew up in Denton, MT.

Don attended Denton High and graduated in 1975. During high school, Don's passions were choir and football. During his junior year, he made all-state choir, and in his senior year, he made all-state class C in football. Both were impressive records that he was very proud of.

Don moved to Billings shortly after graduating high school to pursue better career opportunities. He soon began working for the city of Billings sanitation department. He was extremely skilled at his job, had an outstanding work ethic and was well liked and respected by his co-workers. During the winter months he was often on call and would routinely get called into work in the middle of the night to plow snow. He was one of only a handful of plow operators who possessed the skills to successfully tackle the treacherous routes that included the Rimrocks.

While on break one day in 1977, Don met his future wife Diane Foreman (Ruby-Jackson) while she was working at her parents' doughnut shop, Mister Donut. They were married on July 18th, 1980, and soon welcomed their first child, Jennifer, in 1982, followed by Erica in 1985. While their marriage didn't last, they remained very amicable until Diane's death in 2021.

Don's favorite hobbies included fishing, hunting, camping, and most of all riding his motorcycles. Don's favorite “toy” was his Can-am Spyder. His idea of a perfect day was packing a lunch and heading out on the open road, enjoying all that the Montana scenery had to offer.

Don was a great dad, grandpa, uncle, and friend. Anyone who knew Don can attest to the many great qualities he possessed. He was giving, loyal, honest, funny, and would always be there if you needed him. Don will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, especially his daughters and granddaughter Hailey whom he loved very much.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Marie Jackson; sister Sharon Jackson; and brothers Vern and Eldon Jackson.

He is survived by his daughters Jennifer and Erica Jackson; nephew Dean Jackson; and granddaughter Hailey Mejia.

Cremation has already taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.