Richard had an exuberant nature, an enthusiasm and energy for life that was infections. He laughed often and with his wonderful sense of humor, lifted the spirits of those around him. To him, a stranger was just a friend he hadn't yet met. His strong sense of family guided his life and he will be forever missed.

Richard Harold Jackson was born on September 4, 1929 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to C.S. and Lois Kyle Jackson, who preceded him in death. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He graduated from the University of Florida in 1958 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was privileged to be a pioneer in the space industry, working on the development of the Atlas ICBM, the Mercury and Apollo Space Programs, Skylab, and both Viking missions. His name is on a plaque on the Moon and on Mars. He moved to Alexandria, Virginia to continue his work for GE. He will be remembered fondly.