Earl James Jackson

Earl James Jackson, age 69, died Friday, January 26, 2024, at his residence after a long battle with cancer. He was born on April 22, 1954, in Pottsville, Pennsylvania to William Carl, Sr. and Stella (Lazowsky) Jackson. On October 2, 1982, in Riverton, Wyoming, he married Gemdelin Scott, who survives.

He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and a friend of many as a longtime resident of Thermopolis. He was a talented woodworker and craftsman and built furniture that can be found in homes throughout the Bighorn Basin. When he was not in his woodshop, he could be found pursuing his outdoor passions- whether it be deer hunting with grandchildren, teaching local youth the tricks of the trapline, or safaris abroad with friends. He frequented small town cafes around the country where he never encountered a stranger. His personality earned him the nickname “Harpo”, which many found all too fitting. Although he was a man of many words, his love for others was shown through his actions and willingness to take on any project for family, friends, neighbors, or complete strangers. Prior to departing this world, he was gifted with one final national championship title for his beloved Michigan Wolverines football team. Go Blue.

He is survived by his wife, Gemdelin Jackson, Thermopolis, WY; two daughters, Lacey Jackson, Scottsdale, AZ, and Falina (Alex) O’Brien, Thermopolis, WY; one son, Benjamin (Ashley) Jackson, Scott City, KS, three brothers, Dennis (Jill) Jackson, Antwerp, OH, John (Roxanne Book) Jackson, Hicksville, OH, and Kirkwood (Suzie) Jackson, Antwerp, OH; three sisters, Linda Caruthers and Eva Jean "Jeannie" (Ronnie) Gray both of Nashville, TN, and Brenda (Steve) Walls, Antwerp, OH; eight grandchildren, Em Jackson, Kaylee Jackson, Mackenzie Jackson, Clint Kimes, Beau Kimes, Cheston Kimes, Gentry Kimes, and Willow O’Brien. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Claude Jackson, William Jackson, Jr., James John Jackson; and a sister Nancy Jackson.

A celebration of life with be announced at a later date. Mortimore Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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