(BELTON) Theron Leo Jackson, better known as “T-Bone,” was born on March 18, 1945, in Belton, Texas, to Delmer Leo Jackson and Leoda (Golliheair) Jackson. He was called to eternal rest on February 12, 2025, at the VA Hospital in Temple, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends.
He grew up poor on a farm near Heidenheimer where he learned the importance and value of hard work and thriftiness. His mother died when he was 10 years old. His dad then married Norma Camp, a woman with three boys. They later had a girl which brought the number of children to 10.
He grew up attending church services regularly at the 7th and G (later Western Hills) Church of Christ in Temple. Theron lived a life that exemplified hard work and commitment. He graduated from Academy High School in 1963, lettering in football all 4 years. He attended Abilene Christian College for one year on a football scholarship. He worked as a mechanic at Farm Equipment prior to being drafted into the army in September of 1965. He was attached to the 101st Airborne and spent a year in Vietnam arriving on Easter Sunday 1966.
After completing his 2 years in the army, he returned to the Temple area where he worked as a mechanic for Albritton-Boren Ford in Belton, drove a delivery truck for Temple Welding Supply, and worked maintenance at ITT Grinnell. While working at Albritton-Boren the ‘confirmed bachelor’ met the love of his life. Less than a year after their meeting, he and Judy Wall of Buckholts were married on January 18, 1969, forming a bond that would last for eternity. Initially a shy young man, Theron blossomed into a charismatic figure known for his sense of humor and authenticity. Friends were drawn to him because of his integrity and honesty; his word was his bond, and he communicated with respect and appropriateness.
In 1975 the family moved to LaPorte where he worked for 11 years with Brown and Root Construction based in Houston where he was a structural fitter/welder and a foreman/team leader who led by example. He played a significant role in building platforms for offshore drilling in the oil industry until his retirement. Theron was known for his exceptional work ethic, his strength of character, and his physical strength. He worked hard to provide a good home and life for his family.
A proud veteran, Theron served honorably in the Army, inducted to serve in September 1965. His time in Vietnam earned him numerous accolades, including the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, the National Defense Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Parachutist Badge, and the Sharpshooter (Rifle) designation. He completed his service at Fort Hood, Texas, in September 1967.
As a family man, he was devoted to his wife Judy and their two children, Teresa and Clint. Their grandson ‘TJ’ lived with them for many years. He took immense pride in his accomplishments, including building a country home in Buckholts that was a sanctuary for Judy and their children. His dedication to his family extended beyond daily life; he was an exemplary father who instilled values of love and faith in his children.
T-Bone’s interests were many—he enjoyed farming, gardening, and sharing meals with friends and family, often showcasing his talent with smoked meats. He was a ‘creative cook’. His love for creating extended to building his own smoker and a wood stove from 18″ pipe, reflecting his enjoyment of welding as a hobby. In his leisure time, he found joy in playing dominoes, often teaching others with his handcrafted dominoes. On their first wedding anniversary he presented Judy with a dozen red roses. The card read ‘One for each month for the one I love’. His thrifty side then prompted him to plant rose bushes so that he had a ready supply of roses for any occasion.
In addition to his beloved wife Judy of 56 years, he is survived by his daughter Teresa Jackson; four sisters—Shirley Whittle (Richard), Barbara Hamrick (Joe), Carolyn Ivy (Randy), and Yvonne Campo (John); one sister-in-love Regina (Homer) Jackson; one brother, Danny Jackson—and seven cherished grandchildren: Thomas “TJ” Jackson, Joshua Jones, Lucinda Grandt, Josiah Grandt, Isaiah Grandt, Noah Grandt, and Benjamin Grandt.
Theron was preceded in death by his parents Delmer and Leoda , step-mother Norma ; one son, Darryl ‘Clint’ Jackson (who preceded him in death by exactly one year), and four brothers: Wayne, Homer, Dwaine, and Doyle Jackson.
T-Bone will be remembered for the love and respect he radiated, his steadfast devotion to family, and the laughter he brought into the lives of those around him. His legacy will continue through his beloved family and friends who will cherish his memory forever.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 4:00p.m. at the Belton Church of Christ
In Lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in his memory to Cherokee Home for Children, Alzheimer’s Association, American Kidney Fund or charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center.
