Louis Wayne Jackson

Louis Wayne Jackson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and valued community member, was born on June 29, 1939, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The son of Lewis Woodson “L.W” Jackson and Vernice Marie Holland, Wayne graduated from Duncan High School and went on to attend Cameron University and Cooke County College where he studied Industrial Arts and Engineering.

He was baptized at age 9 at First Baptist Church in Duncan, Oklahoma, and became a dedicated member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Ennis, Texas in 1966. He served in various capacities there for over five decades, including as a greeter, usher, and secretary for the youth Sunday School classes. A man of unwavering faith, integrity, action and few words, Wayne was committed to doing things the right way and with the right tools from the start. His dedication to his family, church, and community was evident in everything he did. He believed in instilling values such as hard work, responsibility, and respect in the lives of his children and grandchildren.

Wayne had a deep passion for nature and devoted over 30 years as the lead groundskeeper at Tabernacle Baptist Church. He also enjoyed sharing his wisdom, offering political insights, advice on improving the world, movie recommendations, and, of course, jokes. His spot in the back of the sanctuary at church was always reserved, and he found great joy in being part of the church community.

Wayne married Betty Ann Braddock Jackson on April 10, 1976, at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Ennis, and together they raised four children: Julie McDowell, Jennifer Etheridge (David), Kris Kelley (Jana), and Michelle Kelley (Sean Morris). Wayne was also a proud grandfather to Rachael Shelton, Michael Shelton (Brianna), Rider McDowell, Jeffrey Smith (Paige), Jane Ramey (Jeremy), Logan Etheridge, Victoria Etheridge, Aaron Kelley (Cheyenne), Seth Kelley, and Joel Kelley (Corinne), Isabella Kelley, Noah Kelley, Sienna Morris and Joshua Morris. His legacy continues with his great-grandchildren: Caleb, Layla, Paislee, Brooks, and Cooper. He is also survived by his niece, Tracy Campbell (Mark) of Norman, Oklahoma.

While working at 77 Bowl in Gainesville as young adult, Wayne overheard about an opportunity to work for Western Electric which started his 35 year telecommunications career. He earned great respect as an installer with Western Electric and AT&T and was a lifetime member of the Telephone Pioneers of America, CWA Local 6290. After retiring, he worked part-time at H-E-B as a produce man and at Ennis Honda Motorcycles.

A lifelong supporter of Ennis High School football, Wayne held season tickets for 50 years and was a devoted fan of the Ennis Lions. He also loved traveling with Red River New Mexico being his favorite place to visit. It was an annual trek that started in his childhood and continued when he and Betty would go every July and stay in Cabin #10 at the Riverside Lodge for over 40 years. While he traveled all over the US, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, Canada, and twice to London—Red River remained his favorite place.

Wayne Jackson will be remembered for his steadfast faith, deep love for his family, dedication to his community, and commitment to hard work and integrity. His practical approach to life, fun-loving spirit, and devotion to his family and faith will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis Woodson "L.W." Jackson and Vernice Marie Holland Jackson, his sisters Claudine Hendrickson and Shirley Farris (Jerry) and son-in law Reggie McDowell.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Brookdale Senior Living, Legend Oaks, Bristol Hospice of Ennis, LifeSpring Hospice, and Touchmark of Coffee Creek in Edmond, Oklahoma, for their compassionate care and support during his final days.

Visitation for Wayne will be Monday, December 16, 2024 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc., 408 N. Dallas St., Ennis, TX 75119.

Funeral Services will be Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 11:00 AM at J.E. Keever Mortuary, Inc. with interment to follow at Myrtle Cemetery, Ennis, TX.