Ronald E. Jackson

Ronald E. Jackson (“Ron”), 86, passed away on Jan. 13, 2025, at his home in Sarasota, Fla.

Ron was married to Margaret (Freeman) Jackson for 65 years. They moved from West Roxbury to Martha’s Vineyard in 1970.

He earned his pilot’s licence, and he owned a plane. He enjoyed many flights around New England. One of his most memorable flights was bringing Bobby Orr to the Island for an Alumni Tournament Fundraiser.

Ron was a hockey player and fan who had a significant role in bringing a hockey rink to the Island, which allowed the Island’s youth hockey program to grow exponentially. Not ready to hang up his skates, he refereed many games, breaking the path for his son Ron and grandson Anthony to follow.

Ron was an avid golfer and tennis player who loved a good competition (if he was winning!). He was a successful business owner, including in several ventures with his wife Peggy. His businesses included Jackson Builders, Vineyards Builders Supply, V.H. Laundromat, and Plane View Restaurant. Most notably he owned and operated the well-known family restaurant and tavern the Ocean View for 37 years with his wife Peggy, children, and grandchildren. He enjoyed running into former employees or patrons to share a fond memory or story; they were endless.

He enjoyed his retirement years in both Sarasota and Martha’s Vineyard, where he continued to play golf and tennis with his regular group of buddies.

Ron is survived by his children, Ron Jackson Jr. (Rene), Sharon Jackson, Robert Jackson (Jill), Michael Jackson (Jean), and William Jackson, all of Martha’s Vineyard. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Michael Jackson (Laura), Lindsay Hopkins (Rahmale), Brandon Smith, Callie, Anthony, Taylor, McKensi, and Neve Jackson; and by his great-grandchildren, Luke, Remi, and Grant Hopkins and Maple Jackson.

A celebration of life will be held in June.

“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.”