Ernest Walter Jackson

Ernest Jackson, 84, passed away peacefully in Fort Worth, Texas, on Monday, April 13, 2015, after being ill for several months. Service: 2:00 PM, Friday, April 17, 2015 Lane Prairie Baptist Church in Joshua. Interment: Caddo Cemetery in Joshua. Visitation: 6-8 PM Thursday at Mountain Valley Funeral Home. Ernie was born in Gotebo, Oklahoma, on September 17, 1930, to George W. and Eunice Bolding Jackson. His family moved to Fort Worth so his dad could start working at the "Bomber Plant," now known as Lockheed Martin. There, Ernie met the one and only love of his life, Betty Ruth Rutledge. They were married on March 6, 1949, when she was only 15 and he was 18. Ernie eventually landed at Bell Helicopter where he worked for 39-1/2 years, retiring in 1990 as Manager of Dispatching. Ernie moved his family to Joshua in 1963 and immediately became active members of First Baptist Church of Joshua for many years. They moved their membership to Lane Prairie Baptist Church about 17 years ago. Ernie taught Sunday School, led the singing or sang in the choir, served as a Deacon, and served in any other capacity he was needed. He was truly a good and faithful servant of the Lord. Ernie not only talked the talk, but he also walked the walk daily as a Christian. Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Betty; son Ron Jackson, and his wife Janet; and daughter Connie Allen. Ernie has six wonderful grandchildren, who were the light of his life: Angie Allen and her husband Matt Wilkin; Krista Jackson Childress and husband Tim; Amber Allen Ritz and husband Brian; Marci Jackson Falvey and husband Joe; Bryan Jackson and wife Robbi; and Rachel Mathieson. Great-grandkids, who brought even more joy to his life, are Bradley Ritz, Jaycee Ritz, Lily Childress, Emma Wilkin, and Lincoln Childress. He is also survived by many nephews, nieces, extended family members and countless treasured friends. Ernie was preceded in death by his parents and brother J.T. "Jake" Jackson. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Lane Prairie Baptist Church Building Fund, 412 CR 704 Joshua,Texas 76058.