Douglas JACKSON Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 24, 2018.

Douglas Roy Jackson was known within the aviation industry as "Hollywood" for his more than 700 airshow performances over 20 years with his replica Japanese Zero "Tora 101". It takes a big man to willingly portray being shot down before the public throughout the United States. Doug was born Waukegan, Illinois, September 16, 1955, and was raised in North Hollywood, California. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Robert "Bob" Jackson and Marilyn "Mouse" Jackson. He worked his way through college in various jobs including flipping burgers graduating from UCLA, with a Bachelor's and went on to receive a Master's from Pepperdine University. His father was a well known aviator and flight instructor on the West Coast and so Doug came by his love of flying naturally. His father not only taught him to fly but helped him earn his advance ratings. But perhaps most important in Doug's development was his opportunity to meet many famous aviators, dignitaries and celebrities through his father's aviation activities. Doug was a "people person" and recognized early that his dream would be to use aviation in his business dealings rather than to act as a pilot for a career. In pursuit of that aviation career Doug moved to Wichita, Kansas in the early 1980's taking a position as an Assistant Sales Support Administrator for the Citation Marketing Division of Cessna Aircraft Company. He spent several years providing the Citation business jet division's sales executives with the presentations and answers they needed to meet prospective customer's needs. In 1984 Doug had the crazy idea that he could sell airplanes. Since Cessna didn't see his potential Doug pursued and was able to secure a position with an aviation company in New York. But once there he somehow knew that the Wichita presented better opportunities for him. Resigning his position in New York, Doug proposed a bold scheme to sell a fleet of former Emery Air Freight aircraft in a relatively brief time for the local Emery contractor, Ryan Aviation services. He won the position of starting an aviation sales operation from the ground up, was successful in meeting the proposed goals, and went on to make aircraft sales a valuable part of that company's operation. When Ryan Aviation was sold to PHH Corporation in New York, Doug and his employees were offered limited opportunities with the buyer's already existing sales force. He decided to strike out on his own instead. And he remained active and successful in aircraft sales until cancer forced him into the hospital in mid-April. Doug is survived by his wife of just three years, Sherry Lynn Jackson, and had grown to consider Sherry's kids and grandkids like his own: Son, Joshua Sheppard and wife, Amy; daughter, Kate Sheppard and seven grandchildren. He many times mentioned to close friends that he marveled that so late in life, after being a confirmed bachelor for more than 55 years, he found a woman who he so completely loved, and who made him an instant dad and granddad. He also leaves behind thousands of friends across North America and abroad.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Douglas JACKSON

Sponsored by Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services - Wichita.

What is your first memory of Douglas?

Share a favorite memory you have of Douglas.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Douglas.

Describe a time when Douglas made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Douglas?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Douglas.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Douglas.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Douglas.

What is something you learned from Douglas?

Not sure what to say?

4 Entries

January 7, 2020

elvira acosta

I am in shock of hearing of his passing. He was family to me. His mother helped raise me and Doug was such an inspiration. It's so hard to believe that he is gone.
Love, Elvira Manzano-Acosta

April 26, 2018

John Fester

I met Doug years ago and was lucky enough to see him fly at many airshows. He was a great pilot and brave soul to let his airplane get "shot down" all over the U.S. at many shows. He will be missed.

April 26, 2018

Debbie Fanning

My heart is broken with the devastating news our dear friend, Douglas Roy Jackson lost his very short battle with pancreatic cancer today. He has been a long time and dear friend whom I held very close in my heart. I worked for Doug in my early 20's as a Market Researcher @ Jackson & Associates. He was a great mentor, friend and boss! Doug took me under his wing and mentored me in the aircraft sales business and introduced me to snow skiing and racquetball. Doug waited his whole life to find love and just got married to his "beautiful" soul mate, Sherry, less than 2 years ago and was so happy and so in love! I'm grateful that he found true love & his soul mate--just wished they could have had more time together. Doug, you were my favorite boss EVER & DEAR friend and you will be deeply missed! Only comfort I can find is knowing you are no longer in pain and that we have an AMAZING angel looking over us. RIP Doug. Debbie Fanning

April 25, 2018

Randall Smith

I enjoyed taking care of the Zero for you while i was at Newton. Many memories of aircraft over the years. Tailwinds my friend as you head west. RIP, Doug.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results

Make a Donation
in Douglas JACKSON's name

Memorial Events
for Douglas JACKSON

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services - Wichita

4408 West Central, Wichita, KS 67212

How to support Douglas's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Douglas JACKSON's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more