Eugene (Gene) Emil Jackson, 81 , retired firefighter passed away Sunday May 18, 2025 at his
daughters home in Square Butte, Montana. At his request cremation has taken place and a
memorial service will be held in Geraldine at the Community Church on May 31st at 1:00 p.m.
Please visit Gene's online memorial at www.bentonfh.com to send a card or leave a message of
condolence for his family.
Gene was born January 29, 1944, in Lewistown, Montana to Edward and Agnes (Kucera)
Jackson. He was raised and educated in various schools around Central Montana. Gene
graduated from Roy High School in 1962.
Gene enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve in 1967, serving as a mechanic until 1972. Following his
military service, he married Peggy Emmons in August 1971, and they settled in Billings, MT.
Gene enjoyed working at various Chevrolet garages before joining the Billings Fire Department
in 1973. In the early 1970s, Gene and Peggy also managed the Lewistown Raceway for several
years. Among Gene's proudest accomplishments were his involvement in racing, managing the
Lewistown Raceway, and his service with the fire department. In 1985, Gene and Peggy adopted
a son, Aaron, and two years later, they adopted a daughter, Heather. Gene and Peggy ended
their marriage in 1996, and he retired from the Billings Fire Department in 1998. After
retirement, Gene moved to Geraldine, MT, where he raised his two children through high
school. Gene continued to live in Geraldine until his passing. He loved working on his many
vehicles and had a lifelong passion for drag racing. Gene often reminisced about his racing days
and spoke fondly of his "old racing buddies." He also had a deep love for animals—his two loyal
pals, Brutus and Cody, were his favorites, along with several beloved cats.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Jackson; his mother, Agnes (Kucera) Wells; two
sisters, Karen Jackson and Hannah Sims; one half-sister, Gloria Wells; and one brother, Robert
Jackson.
Gene is survived by his daughter, Heather Jackson; his son, Aaron Jackson; one granddaughter,
Teylie Gandy; one grandson, Kaleb Jackson; and a half-sister, Lenore Frost, along with many
dear friends.