Otis Mathis Jackson

He was born on January 15, 1938 in England, AK, a son of the late Otis W. and Louise (Howard) Jackson. He enjoyed a thirty-year career with the US Army as a combat engineer, mechanical maintenance supervisor, linguist and instructor, serving at times in Korea, Germany, and Vietnam. In later years, he was stationed at Fort Drum and instructed with the ROTC program at Cornell University. He was awarded the Armed Services Expeditionary Medal (Korea), National Defense Medal, Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Vietnam Service Medal, Legion of Merit Medal, and the Purple Heart, in addition to numerous meritorious commendations.

 

Otis possessed an unparalleled sense of humor, wit, and charm.  Otis enjoyed the hobbies of drag racing, going to dances with his wife, and spending time with his family. He had the great ability to fix engines and mechanical things. He had a great love for animals. His grandchildren proclaimed him "The Mayor of West Groton."

 

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ellengard (Kurzer) Jackson; a son, Otis E. Jackson (Heidi); a daughter, Sonja Cullings (Gregg); his grandchildren: Ashley Druckenmiller (Andrew), Otis A. Jackson, Madelynn Cullings (Matt), Brynn Cullings (Tony), and Tarynn Cullings; a brother, William Jackson; and siblings, Gerle Ann Aldridge, and Carroll, Jeff, & Fred Elder.