Eugene "Gene" Jackson

Eugene "Gene" Jackson, of Johnson City passed away unexpectedly at Wilson Hospital on June 26, 2023. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 53 years, Carolyn (Carol) Jackson,  his beloved daughters, Tammi Karl and Cynthia Wittling, treasured grandchildren; Ariana (Kevin) O’Connell, Ashley Karl, Alexia Karl, and Megan Wittling; cherished great-grandchildren Hayley Monico and Liam O’Connell. He leaves behind  brother, Roger Gilmore, Sr., several nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws, as well as special family friends Nancy Apolovich, and Joan (Dale) Simons .

In 2018, Carol and Gene relocated to Reynolds Pointe to be closer to family, giving Gene the opportunity to befriend many people in the building during his walks through the halls, and when he would enjoy the weather out on their balcony. Starting at a young age, Gene learned everything he could about various trades from anyone willing to teach him. He became a “jack of all trades”, who could fix or make almost anything. He built and remodeled homes, worked on HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, and just about anything else you can think of. As a young adult, he was working as an auto mechanic, and ended up working on Carol’s father Roy's car. Roy was so impressed by him that he set up their first meeting, and history was made! He was very proud of all of his abilities and loved using his talents to help family and friends. He usually had the right tools for the job, too! Unfortunately, he developed health problems that robbed him of doing almost everything, and he was forced to retire from Broome County DPW by his doctor, which greatly upset him. When health allowed, he enjoyed playing the guitar, fishing, and most of all, spending time with his adored family. In the later years of his life, he developed dementia, which stole even more from him, yet he still loved to make others smile.

Gene passed quickly and unexpectedly from heart and kidney failure, which we believe was his
way of going out on his own terms. Gene always did have to do things his way! Gene loved telling jokes, funny stories, and doing silly things to make people laugh. In this spirit, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family would deeply appreciate that you prepare some of your favorite stories of Gene to be shared at that time. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer's Association. To forward condolences please visit www.demunn.com . Arrangements for the family are directed by the DeMunn Funeral Home.