Merlon Russell Jackson Jr.

Merlon Russell Jackson Jr., passed away on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at VA of Central Iowa. A visitation will be held from 10:30am-12:00pm on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Chariton. Military honors conducted by the United States Navy will be held at 12:00pm at the funeral home. Merlon will be interred later at the Chariton Cemetery.

Merlon was born in Chariton, Iowa on June 16, 1952, to Merlon and Mary Fyrn (Caylor) Jackson. In his younger years, he could be found throwing hay on the farm or working at Hy-Vee. After graduating from Chariton High School, he worked at the fish hatchery in Centerville.  He then joined the U.S. Navy where he served from 1973-1975. Merlon later decided to further his education by attending Indian Hills Community College in Centerville, where he finished with an associate degree.  He found his career with Mahle, an auto parts manufacturer who made automobile parts used throughout the world. 

While many people would describe Merlon as a “man of few words”, his impact on those he encountered was anything but quiet. Making sure there was no fanfare or notice taken, Merlon made sure that those he knew were in need, got the help that was necessary. Whether it was buying someone in need a more comfortable pair of shoes or donating to causes near to his heart, Merlon was never one to shy away from making sure a life could be lived a little easier for anyone he thought needed help.  During Christmas time he would always donate to Toys for Tots.  Basketballs and alarm clocks were always his “go to” gift. He felt that boys and girls alike can go outside and enjoy playing basketball and it gave them something to open on Christmas morning. Showing his desire to make life better for children, he would give alarms clocks knowing that some children don’t have the structure at home to get their day started on a positive note. Merlon also could be found quietly paying for the meal of any military service member he’d see dining in a restaurant.

Merlon’s kindness didn’t stop with strangers.  His family had the pleasure of witnessing his generosity and kindness. He adored all his family, but his nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews held a special place in his heart. They enjoyed the secret slip of a few dollars from their uncle “Mer”.

Left to cherish Merlon’s memory are his mother, Mary Fyrn; siblings, Betty Salcedo (Frank) Roseney, Teressa (Richard) Lynch, and Craig (Barbara) Jackson; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews; and his dear friend, Arla Clay.

Merlon was preceded in death by his father Merlon Sr., and a nephew, Luc Richard Lynch.

To honor Merlon’s memory, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, guests bring a new basketball or alarm clock to be donated to Toys for Tots.  A box will be available at the funeral home to receive those generous donations.