Gary Vernon Jackson 79, of Salem, died at his home early Sunday morning.

He was born on December 17, 1938 in East Liverpool, the son of the late Oke and Margaret (Higgins) Jackson.

He was a retired machinist from NRM. Gary loved to tinker around with things and was a wonderful wood worker. In his spare time he liked to plant gardens and was a wonderful cook, baker and canner. Gary also like to spend time with his friends and would often break out the guitar and sing.

He is survived by his wife, Rita June (Rose) Jackson whom he married in 1987, his children, Penny Lynn (Timothy) Stowers of Wellsville, Gary Victor (Linda) Jackson of Leetonia, Melanie Hope Jackson of Odessa, WA, step children, Holly Ruble of Salem, Scott Ruble of Salineville and Mark (Maureen) Ruble of FL, siblings, Bud Jackson of FL, Keith Talbott of Calcutta, Dave Jackson of East Liverpool and Janet Kruger of WI., numerous grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

Services will be held at a later date.