Benjamin (Ben) Dean Jackson

Benjamin (Ben) Dean Jackson, 81, passed away at his home with his family on October 20, 2024, in Alamogordo, New Mexico. Ben was born on March 5, 1943, in Willmar Minnesota to Margaret Jackson and Benjamin Franklin Jackson (deceased). He and his brothers were raised in Durango, Colorado by his mother and stepfather, Theodore Hansen. His family always called him Benny and it wasn’t until he enlisted in the United States Air Force in June 1965 that he discovered his given name was Benjamin. He completed three tours in Vietnam and went on to complete numerous duty assignments around the world for the next twenty-six years until his retirement in December 1990.

Ben married Betty Jane Cooper on February 15, 1975, and they had two children, Jason Wayne Jackson in 1978 and Jill Janella Jackson (Davis) in 1981. Ben and Betty settled in Alamogordo New Mexico in 1985. Upon his retirement in 1990, Ben spent his time refereeing volleyball and basketball, and umpiring softball. When he was not working, he could only be found on the golf course. He was fortunate to have two hole in ones during his golfing career, both obtained over the age of 60. Ben was a committed and loving husband and father. Upon his retirement from the United States Air Force, he took on the role of chef, housekeeper, taxi, soccer coach, and #1 fan of his children’s sports teams.  

Ben is preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Hansen; father, Benjamin Franklin Jackson; stepfather, Theodore Hansen; brothers, Norman Hansen, Dwight Hansen, Jerry Jackson, and Ronnie Hansen.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Jackson; son, Jason Jackson; daughter, Jill Davis; niece, Jerri-Lynn Jackson; his three grandchildren, Taylor Jackson, Robert Jackson, and Daniel Jackson. 

There will be a reception at the 19th Hole at Desert Lakes Golf course, 2351 Hamilton Rd., Alamogordo, NM, 88310 on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 3:00 pm for family and friends. 

Ben was definitely one of a kind. He was loved and will be missed by many. He used to always say, “My job is so secret, even I don’t know what I’m doing.”

The Jackson family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home.

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