Howard “Tracy” Jackson, Jr., 84, of Huntsville passed away Friday.
Tracy was born in Peoria, IL on March 6, 1936. He graduated from Huntsville High School and received an Engineering Physics degree from Auburn University and a Master’s degree in Physics from the University of Alabama.
Tracy was married to the love of his life, Joan Edwards Jackson, for over 60 years.
He was a world-renowned expert in electro optics and infrared technology, where he rose to the ranks of deputy director of the Advanced Sensors and Missile Guidance Directorates of the Army Missile Command. He was an active leader at First United Methodist Church, Boy Scouts, Indian Guides, and served tirelessly as the president of the South Huntsville Baseball League at Huntsville Park. He was passionate about connecting with people of all walks of life while treasure hunting at garage sales and flea markets.
Tracy is survived by his wife, Joan; children, Randall Wayne (Julie), Mark Edward (Carla), and Laura Anderson (Mark); sister, Sandra Jackson Shields (Sherman); nine grandchildren, Jenna Stone (Conrad), Ashley McDonald, Brooke Anderson, Abbigail Pryor (Jake), Gabriel Jackson, Anna Grace Ergle (Nick), Howard Tracy Jackson III, Chad Anderson (Brittany), and Clay Anderson and three great-grandchildren, Molly Grace and Sophie Stone, and Callaway Ergle.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Howard Tracy Jackson, Sr., and Mildred Lucille Beasley Jackson, and his sister, Ella Jane Jackson.
The family wishes to thank Hospice of North Alabama, nurses, Brittany and Amanda, and special caregiver, Stephanie Martin.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on November 16th at Maple Hill Cemetery, Reverend Coy Hallmark officiating. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the First United Methodist Church at 120 Greene Street, Huntsville, Alabama 35801.
