Merlyn Smith Jackson

Merlyn Smith Jackson, born on July 31, 1934, in Hazel, Kentucky, passed away peacefully at home on November 27, 2024. Merlyn, known for his dedication and discipline, honorably served his country as a Chief Warrant Officer in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years before retiring.
 
After his military service, he continued his commitment to safety and order as a Security Officer at Union Carbide, where he completed an additional 20 years of distinguished service. Merlyn was also a devoted member of the Heartland Church, taking joy in his roles as a Greeter and Usher, warmly welcoming all with his well-known, impeccably dressed presence.
 
Apart from his professional and church life, Merlyn loved spending time with his family, exploring the outdoors, and cherishing his faith community. His steadfast and disciplined nature was a source of strength and inspiration to those around him.
 
Merlyn is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty Jackson; one daughter, Merleen Root (Glen) of Mesa, Arizona; two stepdaughters, Brenna Oakley Blocker (Derek) of Atlanta, Georgia and Beth Oakley Dycus (Eddie) of Wickliffe; two stepsons, Rusty Oakley of Mayfield and Rory Oakley of Paducah; two sisters, Kathleen Stewart of Florida and Jane Puckett (Dennis) of Florida; eleven grandchildren, Jeremy Sanchez, April Sanchez, Brianna Bennett-Kennett, Dylan Dycus, Dakota DeJarnette, Amanda York, Victoria Dycus, McKenzie Finley, Morgan Fischer, Keeley Swift and Levi Oakley; thirteen great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lurton and Marie Jackson; one daughter, Christina Darleen Weitlauf; and one grandson, Jamie Sanchez.
 
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah with Rev. Russ Wilson officiating.  Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.
 
Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah.
 
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donation to: Heartland Church, 4777 Alben Barkley Dr, Paducah, KY 42001.
 
You may leave a message for the family or light a candle at www.milnerandorr.com.