Robert S. Jackson Jr.

Robert “Bob” Sidney Jackson, Jr., beloved father, grandfather, and dedicated servicemember passed away peacefully on May 13th, 2025, with his loving wife by his side at the age of 74. Bob was born on October 26, 1950, in Wendell, Idaho, to Robert Sr. and Laura Jackson. Bob attended school in Jerome and later graduated in 1969 from Jerome High School. The same year marked his first marriage to Susan and the birth of their first child, Robert III.

In 1970, Bob enlisted in the US Navy. In his 22-year Navy career, he traveled the world as a personnelman and achieved the rank of Chief. He served aboard the USS Mars (AFS-1), USS Constellation (CVA-64), and USS Eisenhower (CVN-69) with involvement in Vietnam, Libya, Lebanon, and Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. During his service, he positively impacted the lives of sailors through counseling and facilitated the development of the Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicopter. His numerous awards throughout this career include Sailor of the Year three times, Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Battle “E” six times, and Meritorious Unit Commendation. Bob and Susan’s second child Rhonda, was born during this time. Bob later married Jennifer, and together they raised daughters Lora, Amanda, Ashley, and their grandson Jeremiah.

Bob retired from the Navy in 1992 and returned to southern Idaho. He worked as a radio DJ for AM radio station KTFI. Bob also worked in the finance world as a bank teller and eventually a loan officer. His veteran advocacy continued through many years of service for the nonprofit organizations Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans. This work was recognized in 2009 with the Spirit of Freedom Award. Bob enjoyed hunting, fishing, genealogy, theology, music, and technology.

Bob is survived by his first wife Susan Reil (Daniel), wife Jennifer Jackson, brother John Jackson, son Robert S. Jackson III (Jenifer), daughters Rhonda Jackson-Black (Carson), Lora Jackson, Amanda Jackson (Zachary), Ashley Jackson, grandson Jeremiah Petersen, 10 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert S. Jackson Sr. and Laura Jackson.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Wilks Magic Valley Funeral Home, 2551 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 1:00 PM at Snake River Canyon National Cemetery, 1585 East Elm Street, Buhl, Idaho 83316. A reception will follow at 2:00 PM at Wilks Magic Valley Funeral Home, 2551 Kimberly Road, Twin Falls, Idaho 83301.

The Jackson family asks that those who are able donate to the following charities in Bob's honor:

Tunnels to Towers Foundation - Donate Here

Backcountry Veterans - Donate Here

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family in the guestbook section below.