Gerald Wayne Jackson

Gerald Wayne "Jerry" Jackson, of La Porte, Indiana, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Northwest Health--La Porte. Jerry lived courageously with heart failure and other chronic illnesses.

Jerry was born on November 8, 1974, in La Porte, Indiana, to Eldon "Buck" and Patricia Ann (Johnson) Jackson. He attended La Porte High School and spent much of his life in the community he called home.

For many years, he worked as a roofer and took great pride in his craft. Considered one of the last of the "old school" roofers, Jerry possessed a wealth of knowledge and skill, always ready to share what he knew with others. Outside of work, Jerry found happiness in life's simple pleasures. He loved playing basketball, fishing, and listening to music that reflected his old soul. His sense of humor was unmistakable-playful, lighthearted, and often punctuated by his favorite saying, "Would you just look at it," which he repeated again and again to bring a smile to those around him.

Jerry's life was marked by both simple joys and profound challenges. He faced difficult struggles throughout his life, including battles with addiction, that at times created distance in his relationships. Yet, those who knew him best understood his enduring kindness and the deep, quiet love he continued to carry for those no longer in his daily life. From afar, he sincerely wished them happiness and peace.

He is survived by his wife, Toni (Daley) Jackson of La Porte; stepdaughters, Chelsea (Les) Holewinski of New Carlisle, Nikki Daley of La Porte, and Destiny Daley of La Porte; five step-grandchildren; sisters, Durenda (Bobby Bradford) Hawkins of La Porte and Brenda Scott of South Bend; brother, Eldon "Ray" (Vickie Moore) Jackson of La Porte; along with many nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. Jerry also shared a special bond with a little girl, Lilly of Wisconsin, whom he loved as his own daughter.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon "Buck" and Patricia Jackson; son, Eldon Jackson; brother, Lonny Jackson; nephews, Gino and Ian Scott; in-laws, Joseph and JoAnne Daley; and brothers-in-law, Jerry J. Daley and Keith Scott.

Cremation has taken place through Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date to celebrate Jerry's life.

Jerry will be remembered for his resilience, his humor, and the kindness that remained in his heart through life's ups and downs.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.