Terry Lee Jackson

Terry Lee Jackson, a dedicated veteran, farmer, and lifelong Coloradoan, passed away on March 2, 2026, at North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley. He was 80 years old.

Born on April 14, 1945, in Greeley to Walter Neil and Norma Veleda (Brungard) Jackson, Terry was raised in rural Gill. He attended Platte Valley High School in Kersey, where his leadership was evident as President of his class of 1963. A man of many talents, Terry was a beautiful baritone singer and an accomplished trumpet and cornet player.

Terry’s commitment to service led him to the U.S. Army. He entered active duty on November 1, 1965, serving with distinction until September 25, 1969. During his tenure, he spent over two and a half years in foreign service, deployed to both Korea and Ethiopia. For his dedicated service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Expert Rifle Award. Following his active duty, he continued his commitment in the Army Reserves until October 31, 1971.

On October 13, 1993, Terry received a life-saving bone marrow transplant from his sister, Linda, which allowed him to survive and thrive following a leukemia diagnosis. His work ethic was legendary; after his military service, he worked as a Pepsi delivery driver and farmed for Steve Cecil and B&G Irrigation. In 1987, he founded his own custom farming company, Rite Stuff Farms. He remained in the tractors he loved until his retirement in 2021.

Known for his infectious smile, Terry was the life of the party. He enjoyed playing cards and dice with friends and family, and he truly marched to the beat of his own drum, doing everything "his way."

Terry is survived by his former wife, Doryea (Scruggs) Pennington; his children, Anissa Bree (Matthew), Derek Jackson (Joan), and Amaris Jackson; six grandchildren, Carley Varo (Ray), Skylah Bree, Gabriel Bree, Lexa Jackson, Tucker Jackson, and Tynlee Shortridge; and two great-grandchildren, Thomas and Truman Varo. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda Kohlmeier (Ken) and Jean Ritchey, and his brother, Timothy Jackson.

A military memorial service will be held on March 28, 2026, at Eaton Community Church, 1561 Benjamin Dr., Eaton, CO 80615, from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Blood Cancer United via the Mark’s Funeral & Cremation website.