Obituary of Harold LaVere Jackson

Harold LaVere Jackson, “BJ," age 89, of Chapel Hill, NC passed away peacefully on January 5, 2021. He was born December 10, 1931 in El Paso, TX to his parents, Armond L. and Lavinia Jackson.

Harold served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, where as part of his service he spent two years aboard the USS Oriskany in the South Pacific, working in electronics.  He attended Brigham Young University (BYU), and studied electrical engineering. 

While in college, Harold fell in love with the literal girl next door, Elizabeth “Betty” Sardoni. They were married May 24, 1957 and have had many adventures together, including moving to Chapel Hill. He helped start TUCC, which provided mainframe computers and support for Duke, UNC and NC State. He retired from UNC Hospital as a systems analyst. 

Besides computers and fixing things, Harold loved Scouting and camping. He took his Scouts on many adventures along the eastern seaboard. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served faithfully, volunteering his time and his talents to help bless the lives of many people. 

Harold is survived by his wife and companion of nearly 64 years, Betty; brothers, Dwight (Karen), and Robert; son, Jeffrey (Barbara); daughters, Elaine (Wayne) Walls, and Lavinia Anderl; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Armond and Lavinia; sisters, Lavinia and Velma; and brother, Armond.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers who helped Harold. Dr. Autumn McRee and Dr. Janelle Krasovich for their excellent care. UNC Hospice for their compassionate support for Harold and our family. And the many family members, friends and neighbors who helped lighten and brighten our lives. 

Due to Covid, the family has elected to hold a limited private service, which will be broadcast on Saturday, January 9, 2021. To request the link to view the service and additional information, please send an email to lavinster6@gmail.com.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the missionary fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or to UNC Hospice (Please use the link on the left). To honor Harold’s memory, the family would encourage you to go on a hike and enjoy the beauty of the world around you (and see how many plants you can name!). 

The Jackson family is under the care of Walker's Funeral Home of Chapel Hill.