Dennis Lee Tackett

Born on September 16, 1952, in Portsmouth, Virginia, Dennis was a man of deep commitment—to his family, his country, and the causes he held dear. He graduated from John Yeats High School in Suffolk, Virginia before earning his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the University of Florida in Gainesville and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering at the Air Force Institute of Technology in Dayton, Ohio.

Entering the Air Force as an enlisted serviceman in 1972, Dennis felt fortunate to have later been selected to the Airman Education and Commissioning Program (AECP), which sent him to the University of Florida to complete his Bachelor’s degree. As an Air Force Officer, engineer and Stealth Pioneer, Dennis was a true patriot - making valuable contributions to both the nation’s Intelligence and Stealth efforts over his diverse career. Dennis is remembered by colleagues for his unique ability to identify and maintain focus on key issues while remaining mindful of the broader perspective. He was always serious and diligent in his work, yet quick with a calming or humorous comment when the situation required.

After 20 years of service to the US Air Force, Dennis retired with the rank of Captain. His military career instilled in him a strong sense of duty and leadership that carried over into his many endeavors after retirement. In his post-military career, he continued working with the nation’s Intelligence and Stealth efforts as a government contractor, working for companies such as Northrop Grumman in Cerritos, CA and Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. in Alexandria, VA.

Dennis became a passionate advocate for suicide prevention following the death of his son Jeff in 2005. Dennis was deeply involved with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) at the local, state, and national levels. At the National level, he served as Chair of the AFSP Loss and Healing Council and was a member of AFSP’s Board for many years. As a founding member of the National Capital Area Chapter of AFSP and later a board member for the North Carolina Chapter, he worked tirelessly to raise awareness and support for those affected by suicide loss at the local and state levels. His dedication was evident in his participation in 21 Out of the Darkness Overnight Walks - walking over 16 miles overnight in cities across the country, as well as in his role as co-chair for several local walks in North Carolina’s Triangle area. His fundraising and personal contributions resulted in approximately $300,000 raised over the years, which helped fund research, advocacy and survivor support for those affected by suicide loss..

Beyond his advocacy work, Dennis found fulfillment in serving his community through NC Post 67 of the American Legion. A proud member for six years, he led as Commander for two years, fostering camaraderie among fellow veterans and supporting initiatives that honored their service.

Dennis had a kind and caring nature with a great sense of humor that endeared him to those around him. After retirement, he loved traveling the world with his wife Chris and wanted to set foot on all of the world's continents. While he didn't achieve that goal, they traveled to many countries on land trips as well as river cruises and ocean cruises. When not traveling, he also enjoyed time spent at home relaxing, surrounded by family, friends and their two cats Dewey and Bergen.

He is survived by his beloved wife Chris Tackett; daughters Christy (Brian) Purdy of Cary, NC and Abbey Cholewinski of Prescott Valley, AZ; grandchildren Grace Purdy, Emily Purdy, Daniel Kelley, and Finn Kelley; his mother Dolores Jean Tackett; and sisters Barbara (Ernest) Whitley and Sandi Scott. He was predeceased by his father Adrain Tackett; son Jeff Tackett; and brothers Danny Tackett and Donald Tackett.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 29, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Apex Funeral Home, located at 550 W. Williams St., Apex, North Carolina, 27502.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in honor of Dennis at: https://diy.lls.org/fundraiser/6143148

For those who are eligible, please consider donating blood and platelets - these items are in critical shortage and can help save or prolong lives. Contact your local Red Cross, hospital, or blood donation center for more information.

Dennis’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his compassion and dedication to service. May the memories of his camaraderie, welcoming smile, quick wit and warm friendship bring comfort to all who knew him.

A memorial for Dennis will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 1pm in the Apex Funeral Home Chapel, following a reception after.