Obituary of Richard W. Jackson

Richard W. Jackson, 68 of East Haven, CT passed away peacefully at Smilow Cancer Center on Wednesday, July 13, 2011. Mr. Jackson is survived by Theresa Pinto Jackson, his beloved wife, of 20 years. He was born in New Haven, CT on Aug. 11, 1942, to Arlene F. Berry and Amos E. Jackson. Predeceased by sister Margo E. Cassella, brother Robert Jackson, brother-in-law John Votto, and cousin Irving King, he is survived by brothers and sisters William B. Jackson, Geraine B.Benham, Edward A. Jackson, and Frances A. Vache. Mr. Jackson leaves behind loving children Robin (Mason) Papuga with her husband Jeffrey and Sheri Mason, as well as, Ricky, Carl, Arlene, Kymberly, Kenny, Michael, Corrine,and Jamie. He also leaves behind several grandchildren including Damien, Tristan, Chris, Jeffrey, Ricky Jr., Angelica, Courtney, Carl Jr., Christian, Alyssa, and Hayden, along with several great-grandchildren. Mr. Jackson also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews including Kathleen, Alexis, Joshua, Frank, Ann and Bobby, as well as, a multitude of loving friends, especially Lee and Annie. He also had a very special place in his heart for his grandson, Damien Mason, who spent significant time caring for his "poppy." As a young adult, Mr. Jackson served in the U.S. Navy. He also gave many years of service to his community as a multi-agency career law enforcement officer including police, sheriff, and the DEA.Upon retirement from law enforcement he was employed by Yale University until 1995. Richard was most known for his keen wit, feisty sense of humor and sparkling bright blue eyes that were always so full of life and laughter. He was a compassionate man who stood out in a the hearts and minds of the many,many lives he touched over the span of his life-time. To those who knew him best, he will always be "The Ironman". A husband,father,grandfather,greatgrandfather, brother,uncle and friend, he was loved so very much and will be dearly missed. Mr. Jackson was a member of "Lung Life" of Branford for many years. He was also an avid supporter of "Lung Life," The School of the Navajo for children in Arizona and the ASPCA. Funeral Mass will be held Monday morning at 11:00 in Our Lady of Pompeii Church, East Haven. Burial will be private. There are no calling hours. Contributions in Richard’s memory may be made to “Lung Life” 84 N. Main St., Branford, CT, 06405 ATTN: Debbie or Rebecca.