Elden Jackson, born November 6, 1931, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2020, after reaching the age of 88 years old. After a brief time of failing health, he passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his loving family – in person and in spirit. Elden had a love of painting, home building, farming, and serving others. He was honored to have had a piece of his artwork displayed at Art Prize. He donated many hours of his time and talent to numerous individuals and organizations, including moving the United Brethren Church onto a new foundation and then building an addition to the existing structure. He was also responsible for the construction of Faith Bible Church. Elden spent many months doing construction projects at Camp Living Waters. Many individuals have benefited from his help and experience, including the countless young men he mentored, helping them become productive, conscientious, and successful. Elden was known for his hard work and energetic spirit well into his later years. He took great pride in doing a job and doing it well; mediocrity or “good enough” were not part of his vocabulary. Elden’s innate belief in others’ abilities weren’t bound by age or gender; he expected everyone to pull their weight and contribute at the highest level – from having his children pick rocks in the field before school to enlisting his grandchildren to plant backyard gardens. Elden empowered and inspired everyone to show up, work hard, and do their best. Elden was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Thelma Jackson; his wife, W. Marilee (Shellenbarger) Jackson; sister, Mae Jewel Mauer; brother, John Jackson; sister-in-law, Betty Jackson, and brother-in-law, Leroy Thomas. He is survived by his lovely partner, Nettie Koops with whom he finished his life enjoying her gracious company; son, Elden Michael (Susan) Jackson; daughters, Sue (Chris) vanEe, Shellie (Ron) Schelter, and Sallie (Greg) Stambaugh; 16 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren, and five great great grandchildren. Siblings Joe Jackson, Erma Thomas, Pat (Margaret) Mauer, Carolyn Jackson, Claudia (Bill) Barker, Lee (Carol) Jackson, Paul (Judy) Jackson, Bruce Jackson, and Kathie (Charles) Scofield. Numerous nieces and nephews and a slew of other Jacksons. Elden’s characteristic smile, bright blue eyes, checkered shirt and leather vest, and the generous use of “pot-licker” as a term of endearment, were a source of playfulness and comfort to his family and friends. Elden was a strong, generous, proud, and good man. He leaves a strong legacy of faith, work ethic, servant leadership, no-nonsense, and practical approach to life. He is loved and will be missed by many. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Clarksville Bible Church. In addition, Elden would hope that you will do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for someone else – something he often did and of which he expected no recognition. Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2020, at Clarksville Bible Church, Clarksville, Interment will take place at 2:30 p.m. at Lakeside Cemetery, Lake Odessa. Online condolences can be left at www.koopsfc.com.