
Jay Norman Jackson was born October 7, 1961, in Miami, Oklahoma to Dr. W.D. Jackson and Norma Lou Jackson. Jay lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma with his wife, Teresa, when he passed from this life on August 3, 2018.
Jay was the youngest of three sons. He is survived by his wife Teresa, older brother Tom Jackson and Tom’s wife Furan Jackson of Miami, Oklahoma, and sister-in-law Leah Jackson of Norman, Oklahoma. Jay was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest brother, Scott Jackson.
Jay, a CPA, graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1984, and was the Chief Financial Officer at CareATC. He began his professional career at KPMG, LLP, where he met many lifetime friends. He went on to hold key financial positions at Century Healthcare, Benefit Informatics/Benefitfocus, then CareATC, where he continued his passion to serve others.
While growing up in Miami, Oklahoma, Jay was an exceptional student and was particularly popular, frequently hosting friends at his parent’s home, with or without permission. Jay’s parents and brothers were the people Jay admired most and were great influences in his life. Doc Jackson was proud of his boys and introduced Jay to the game of golf. Norma Lou always had a smile on her face when Jay was around. Scott and Tom made their little brother feel equal and capable of anything. But his gift of loyalty and caring for others more than himself, whether observed, learned or inherited, was uniquely Jay’s.
Jay always lit up when he talked about his nieces and nephews - Scott and Leah’s children, Jennifer and Scotty, Tom and Furan’s children, Sam, Lee and Mary as well as Teresa’s niece and nephews, Caitlin, Blake, Ryan and Chris. Jay always had a way of making the children of family or friends feel like they belonged. As he watched them grow, he was as proud of their accomplishments as any parent would be, and he spoke of them as if they were his own. Jay was also a great nephew himself – he would often travel for hours to visit his Aunt Leaetta Jackson, long after Jay’s parents had passed.
Jay drew his strength and love for life from his friends. Whether a childhood friend, co-worker, spouse, neighbor, or someone he had just met, Jay loved them all. Jay always shared stories and spoke highly of his friends to others, never saying a bad word about any of them. This connected his friends, too many to mention, to each other and brought families closer together. Jay always made you feel like his best friend. But if you ask Jay, he had only one best friend.
Jay married the love of his life and best friend, Teresa (Kelley) Jackson, in 2002. Jay and Teresa shared a love for life that required only the two of them, but that they shared often with family and friends. Jay’s interests in biking and cars became her interests. Teresa’s interest in traveling and her family became his interests. Jay and Teresa always made the most of their time together, while still making time for others. They moved for a couple of years to Charleston, South Carolina, but they returned to Tulsa in 2013.
Jay and Teresa’s house in Tulsa always feels like home to family and friends. Jay is truly home now. May God allow us to continue to find joy in one another, just as Jay did.
The viewing will begin on Thursday with a visitation to be held 5-7 P.M. Friday, both at the Ninde Brookside Funeral Home. Funeral service 10:00 A.M. Saturday at Boston Avenue United Methodist Church. A Celebration of Life will be held 5:00 P.M. Saturday, August 11 at the Jackson's residence, 4920 E. 103rd St. Tulsa, Oklahoma.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Palmer Treatment Center of Tulsa, P.O. Box 580700, Tulsa, OK 74158 or www.palmer-tulsa.org. This was an organization with whom Jay was very proud to be involved.
I am on sad to have just learned of his death. I had the pleasure of intermittently working with Jay Jackson over many years. He was always very smart and a true gentleman. My sincere condolences to Jay's family. Elise Brennan
Elise Brennan
Our sincere Condolences "And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes,and death will be no more,neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore"The former things have passed away."Rev21:4 Jehovah God will sustain you.
A.Wilson
I wa so sad to hear of Jay's passing. I have fond memories of our high school days hanging out and all the great times our families spent together. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Shelly Weatherford
Tom Cruise had nothing on Jay - from the moment Jay came aboard CareATC - He had us at "Hello." As everyone has mentioned, he always had a smile for everyone, kind, warm - and, so much personality in his face. It did not take 5 minutes for anyone meeting Jay for the first time to feel like he has always been your best friend. One day as I was in the breakroom and about to burst into tears, Jay asked me what was wrong. I explained that someone keeps inviting in these evil invaders into our office - BALLOONS. I explained to him that I had a terrible fear of balloons (globophobia). Our other Management team in the past would laugh and ridicule me about this, but not Jay. He was very comforting. I explained to him that it is a real phobia, and even someone as famous as Oprah has this phobia as well. So, because Jay truly believed and practiced our core values, he came swiftly to my rescue and sent an e-mail to the office asking them to be kind to this "geezer" and not let these evil invaders into our company. We did agree that Mylar balloons were friendlier, festive and really more "Fun." So many times we would laugh about how much I was in good company after all. Jay actually took the time and researched this phobia, and was amazed that it isn't as uncommon as anyone thinks. The best article we read said that if you are ever invited to Oprah's house for a party - Do Not Bring Her Balloons because she has globophobia. This may sound so silly to many people - but, if it was important to you, it was very important to Jay. Jay was one of the biggest reasons why our company is a great place to work. So Jay - for me there will be "No Goodbyes" because You Will Always Have Us at "HELLO."
Jean Sutherland
I have had the pleasure of working with Jay over the last 4 years. Since I live in Florida I did not get to spend as much time with him in person as the rest of our company. Lot of the time I spent with Jay was over the phone discussing pricing, contracts, etc. He always had a smile in his voice in every conversation I ever had with him. In fact I can not remember a time I have talked with him he did not make me laugh. Great businessman and a great example of how to treat others for us all. He will be greatly missed by me and the entire sales team at CareATC. Steve Thomas
Steve Thomas
Jay was one of my dearest friends. We experienced so many firsts together like motorcycles and snow skiing. Went on family vacations together, studied together, were in speech/theater, going to lake, putting stereo systems in our cars and so much more. We started off in kindergarten together and saw each other just a few months ago. I share all that because I treasured my friendship with Jay. I love the man. He was brilliant, kind and always willing to help me and others when needs arose. He let me stay with him in Tulsa after college until I landed my first job. You will be greatly missed my friend.
David Tromsness
Jay was one of the most likable, kind and friendly people I've had the honor to meet. He had a catch phrase for everything, understood how to handle any situation and was passionate and bold in pursuit of the things and people he loved. I looked forward to our daily watercooler talk about the next ride we were going on, our stats from the last ride, or new kit we were thinking of investing in for our bikes. In the too short of a period of time I worked with him, he taught me that listening to and enjoying people was an important effort. In reading and listening to all the recounted memories of others, as well as listening to him talk about others around him in such a positive light and with such conviction, I don't want to imagine the magnitude of their pain. He meant so much to me, and so much to all. Theresa, you most of all he spoke about with love, that I only wish and hope I could come to exemplify with my own wife. I'm not certain what the path forward will be without his inspiration, certainly less bright, less complete. You will be missed.
Dustin Fry
Teresa, I'm so sorry for your loss. I was lucky to work with Jay for 3 years at CareATC. He was smart, witty, and genuinely cared about his co-workers and clients. He invested his time and knowledge into his teammates and made a noticeable effort to help everyone around him achieve more. I had nothing but respect for him. He's irreplaceable and will be greatly missed. Although I asked many times, he never let me drive his Porsche. Probably smart. I'll remember Jay forever.
Jeremy Cavness
So sorry to hear about Jay’s passing. He was a friend and colleague at KPMG back in the 80’s. Prayers for his wife and the family.
Paul Eckels
Oh this is so terrible! My heart is with you all in this very, very difficult time!
Stephanie Koston
I knew Jay in high school. We were very close my senior year. He was the nicest guy with a wonderful sense of humor and beautiful smile. It is hard to find words for the sadness. Prayers to all impacted by his passing.
Kimiko Baumert Krekel
My heartfelt sympathy to Jay's family and close friends. I had the utmost respect for him personally and professionally. My prayers go out for all who loved him.
Renetta Reeves
I had the pleasure of working for Jay and CareATC in Dallas on their real estate. In a world of fast talkers and hip shooters, he was the gentlemen that always made time. I greatly appreciated his enthusiasm, his poise, and his patience in the way he handled business and important decisions. I remember leaving phone calls and feeling like I shook his hand at the end of the conversation. Our deepest condolences to Teresa and his family. We pray for God to cover your hearts and your home during this time. Matthew 5:4
Jerrod Simmons
I have had the honor of working with Jay thru Century Health Care and have keep in touch with him. I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love. Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Donna Parkman
I feel blessed to have been able to work with Jay at CareATC the past year and a half. Jay was a perfect example of servant leadership. I constantly saw him put others first before himself, consistently encourage others, and made every single person feel welcomed at the office with his smile and warm personality. On top of that, Jay was fun!! I enjoyed many laughs from his quick and witty humor during a company meeting, or his college stories he’d share occasionally at a group happy hour. He encouraged our office cycling group with his email banter and I’ll always be grateful that he personally taught me how to change a flat tire at the cycling class he helped lead. Our days are numbered and we could have never guessed that such a great man would be gone so soon. I believe all that had a chance to spend even a few minutes with Jay, were encouraged in some way and walked away feeling special. May we all be a blessing to others as Jay was to each of us!! Prayers for his family and close friends during this time of unexpected loss. He will forever be remembered and carried on through each one of you.
Charity Wendt
Terry: Thinking of you— and knowing how tough this day is... Nothing I can say will help at this moment- I can only offer my help if you find yourself in need of anything Love you Suzy
Suzy Mcintosh
My husband and I were in a group golf tournament when we heard of Jay’s passing. I burst into tears thinking of his magnetic personality and only positive vibes, which made you fall in love with him. He could build or fix anything, and if he didn’t know how, he would research it, build it, and it would be perfect. His passion for life, love of family and friends were what we all strive for. He was just “That Guy”, that special person you wish you could be like. Our hearts go out to Teresa, and her family. We know how much they loved each other and the void she will experience. It’s unexplainable and unimaginable. We love you and expect you to lean on all of us who looked up to your love for each other. God speed Jay, and as Billy Graham says in response to his temporary address, we look forward to all being with you in our permanent address. Love and prayers, Deidra, Dan O’Keefe and Family.
Deidra and Dan O’Keefe
I only met Jay in the spring of this year when he joined our Tulsa Bicycle Club. I enjoyed visiting with him several times throughout the spring at meetings and on rides and looked forward to having him as a friend for years to come. He will be missed, as evidenced by the many loving comments I've read here. I feel fortunate to have known him for the short time I did and know that he will be well remembered by his many friends, colleagues, and family members.
Michael Schooling
Friend for 16 years, boss for over half of those years. I can’t imagine a world without you in it. I’m a better person for having known you. You taught me so much about life, family, friendship, work ethic and helping others (ie dragging me to the Red Cross to donate blood even though I was terrified of needles). T my heart breaks for you. Jay and I had some wonderful conversations about everything from Porches to politics but I’ve never seen him happier than when he was talking about you, his best friend, the love of his life, his soul mate. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest In Peace my friend. BEST. BOSS. EVER.
Jan Thomas
I have only known Jay for a short time but he was always so kind. He never made me feel like he was above me. I have great respect for Jay. I pray for peace and comfort for Jay 's family.
Renee Simpson
I met Jay for the first time when he came with Teresa and stayed for three hours as my wife was dying from Alzheimer's. I thought at the time, what a remarkable person to seek to bring comfort to someone that he had never even met. A few months later Teresa and Jay came over for dinner and I had the chance to get to know him better. He was a person who you immediately liked and wanted to have as a friend. Unfortunately with Jay's passing I will not get that opportunity. I have looked at the photos on Facebook of Jay and Teresa. They had so many fun times together and it is obvious that they had a very special love for each other. To Teresa I can only say that while Jay's life ended much to soon, she should always remember that she and Jay had something so very special, a true love of their life that many never find.
Dennis Woody
I was so sorry to hear of Jay’s passing. He was a delight to work with. Teresa, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Joie Holder
Jay has been one my golfing buddies since I moved to the Tulsa area. He was a good friend also. It was always a good time when you were with Jay. You will be greatly missed my friend.
Jon Heaps
I only knew Jay for a short while but it felt like a lifetime. He made you feel like you were a part of his family and I am blessed to have shared some good times. You are home now. Enjoy the greenest of fairways.
Heather Williams
Our deepest condolences from our family to both Jay's family and to the CareATC family. We have lost a friend and ambassador.
Dane Treat
Jay was such a great example to all of us in his approach to work and life. He was an exceptional CFO, but also an extremely authentic man. I always thought for being so gifted in finance he was also a great story teller, who had a good sense of humor and was great at building solid relationships. I loved working with Jay and am confident that I am just one of many who are better people because we were blessed to spend time with him.
Justin Tomberlin
I believe everyone would agree that Jay always had the most welcoming and warm smile! There are no words to fully express my sympathy to Jay's family or closest friends. I am thankful for the time I had to get to know this great man, and while he only served as my boss for a few short years, he made me feel like I had known him a lifetime. Jay made each work day fun, especially during football season, when he would show up wearing orange! Jay will be greatly missed
Janessa Eades
I am honored to have known Jay. He was such a sweet soul, his smile would light up a room! He always addressed me by name, asked how I was, remembered my kids and that they were in college. I felt he actually did care and it wasn't just for conversation in passing. My Jay time was in the morning when we seemed to always meet in the kitchen for coffee. I told him he was brilliant for heating up his coffee mug with hot water before pouring his coffee. Some mornings he would pretend race me to the coffee. Heartfelt condolences to his entire family. Continued prayers for peace and healing
Denise Odell
My deepest condolences and prayers for you and your family at this time. Jay you are truly going to missed so very much.
Diana Smail
It was an honor to have known and worked with you for the last 11 years. I had the privilege of working with Jay at Benefit Informatics, Benefitfocus and now at CareATC. Walking into work will be different now and he will be missed. I will always have great memories of where life has taken us. You will be remembered as genuine and one of the kindest people I have ever met.
Rusty Wyrick
I am honored and blessed to have known Jay, I will miss his warm smile most of all. He was truly a blessing in all of our lives here at CareATC and will be deeply missed. Prayers of peace and comfort for all of you during this time.
Amanda Weathers
Just wanted to say my heart is very heavy right now, One thing I can remember that stuck with me about him , When I first started working for the company , he asked me my name and never forgot it, and from then on called me by my name out of all the employees , He actually remembered my name and was always a pleasure person to be around, That just showed me his awesome character that he possesed , You will truly be missed R.I.P.
Danyelle Coleman
My heartfelt condolences to the family. I met Jay for a brief minute but I feel like we have known each other for a while. May his memories give you strength and may God Almighty console you til you meet again.
Maureen Ziboh
I only met Jay once a couple weeks ago during a business meeting. But he was the type of man that made a great first impression and was a true gentleman. So easy to talk with and a wonderful human being. I was shocked and saddened to hear of his unexpected passing. My prayers are with his wife and family members.
Jon Hudson
Jay was a wonderful man. We are shocked and saddened by his sudden passing. Our deepest condolences to Theresa and his entire family. God bless you all.
Barbara and Bill Wright
I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers coming your way.
Becky Bever
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Jay's passing. I am so very sorry. You have my very deepest sympathy.
Robbie D
To the Family of Jay Jackson: May our Heavenly Father God and His son our Christ grant unto you perfect peace and comfort.
Jo Ann Nicolas