Donald Gilbert Jackson

Portland- Donald “Papa” Gilbert Jackson, 82, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away on October 20, 2024, in Scarborough surrounded by his loving family. Donald was born on November 7, 1941, son of the late Carl Sr. and Theresa (Toulouse) Jackson. Donald was born and raised in Portland, and graduated from Portland High School in 1960, proudly earning the senior superlative “Nicest Guy at Portland High”. On November 17, 1963, he married his high school sweetheart, Dolores (Davis) Jackson and they went on to have three beautiful daughters. Donald worked for Loring, Short and Harmon as a loveable salesman for 30 years, then went on to work for the City of Portland Traffic Division until his retirement. Donald and Dolores were known for their social gatherings, particularly their legendary Halloween parties, still talked about to this day. Donald’s dancing was a highlight at any wedding, party, or family gathering, and he passed on his dancing skills to his family. His vibrant presence on the dance floor was truly a sight to behold. Donald was an avid sports fan, passionately supporting the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and most importantly, his Boston Celtics. At 6’2”, he was built for basketball and could often be found at the Riverton School, participating in pick-up games with friends. A devoted family man, Donald coached his daughters’ softball teams, regularly attended their swim meets and track events, and later became the best grandfather anyone could ask for to his seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. His love for his family was unmatched and will forever be remembered. Donald’s legacy of love, laughter and extraordinary family dedication will continue to inspire and warm the hearts of those who knew him. To know him was to love him. Donald is predeceased by his brothers, Carl Jackson Jr., Norman Jackson, and sister, Gloria Hendrix. He is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Dolores Jackson; daughters, Mary and her husband George Clements, Denise and her husband Todd Perkins, and Kristina Lane and her partner Michael Kirby; grandchildren, Ashley and her husband Nate DeSimone, Kayla and her husband Brandon McLellan, Lindsey and her husband Eric Anderson, Sarah and her husband Steve Verrill, Todd Jr., and Abby Perkins, and Nicholas Lane; great-grandchildren, Madison, Jace and Wade; and many other beloved extended family members. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Gosnell Hospice House for their care of Donald in his final days. Visiting hours will be held from 10:30am-12:30pm on Friday, October 25, 2024, with a Funeral Service to begin at 12:30pm at Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home, 172 State St. Portland, ME; burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland.