Frederick William Jackson, 81 of Dartmouth, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Born in New Bedford, Fred was the beloved husband of Jeannette (Petitjean) Jackson, with whom he shared 30 wonderful years of marriage.
He was the son of the late Frederick and Evelyn (Tyson) Jackson and was a proud graduate of Fairhaven High School. A man of tremendous dedication and service, he proudly served his country as a United States Air Force Veteran during the Vietnam War. His commitment to serving others continued for 30 years with the Army National Guard, 26th Aviation, where he dedicated much of his life to his community and country.
Frederick’s hardworking nature and mechanical talents carried throughout his professional life. He worked for the government Military and served as a Motor Sergeant at Joint Base Otis. Prior to that he worked as a Fleet Service Manager for United Truck Leasing and for Edart Truck Rental. A true “jack of all trades,” Fred had a natural ability to fix, build, and figure out just about anything. He was happiest tinkering around the house, taking on projects, and putting his hands to work.
His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to own and operate “Uncle Buddy,” a small breakfast and lunch restaurant in New Bedford, where he enjoyed serving good food and getting to know people in the community.
Fred was deeply committed to his community. He was a longtime member of the VFW in Fairhaven and proudly served as Commander during the 1970s. He also served as a Police Officer for the Town of Mattapoisett during the 1970s, further reflecting his lifelong dedication to protecting and serving others. His pride in military service extended to his family as well, including his niece, who also followed the path of military service and his nephew.
Beyond his many accomplishments, Fred will be remembered most for the man he was to those who loved him. He was a devoted husband, a cherished grandfather, and a man who took great pride in his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than being a grandfather and spending time with the people he loved.
When he wasn’t tinkering around the house or helping someone with a project, Fred enjoyed traveling, especially his trips to Aruba, where he could relax, enjoy the sunshine, and make memories with those closest to him.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his sons Joseph Jackson and his wife Krystal of PA, Timothy Jackson and his wife Kellie of PA; seven grandchildren Alexia Smith, Emily, Brianna, Dylan, Caelyn, Autumn Jackson, and Luke Arruda; daughter Rebecca Arruda of Dartmouth; son Scott Arruda and his wife Jen of Dartmouth; sister Susan E. Jackson; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister Maureen Hedges.
His funeral will be Friday, October 2, 2026, at 9:00AM from the Waring-Sullivan Home at Dartmouth, 230 Russells Mills Road, Dartmouth followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00AM at St. Mary’s Church, 795 Dartmouth St., Dartmouth. Burial will be in MA National Cemetery in Bourne. Visitation will be Thursday 5-8pm. Donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; Dartmouth Friends of the Elderly, 628 Dartmouth St., Dartmouth, MA 02748 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306. For online tribute or directions, please visit www.waring-sullivan.com.
