Retired Poultry Executive Haskell Jackson Dies at 82

Retired poultry executive Haskell Jackson died Aug. 3 in Springdale after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 82.

Jackson spent a combined 36 years employed by Tyson Foods Inc. and George’s Inc.

According to his obituary, Jackson began his poultry career in 1960 when he accepted a job offer from Don Tyson to join the company as an accountant. He became controller/secretary for Tyson Foods and was instrumental in setting up the company’s data processing department.

“Haskell Jackson was an important contributor to the success of Tyson Foods in the early days of our company’s expansion,” said Dennis Leatherby, Tyson Foods executive vice president and chief financial officer. “As our first internal CPA, he was, in effect, the company’s chief financial officer from the early 1960s, into the 1970s.

“He provided valuable support to our founder, John W. Tyson, and his son, Don, as the company began to grow through numerous acquisitions. He is remembered very favorably by many longtime Tyson team members.”

In 1978, Jackson went to work for George’s, also as controller/secretary, and remained there until his retirement in 1996.

“Haskell was a man of high integrity and intelligence, and his compassionate heart and priorities of faith and family set a strong example for all those around him,” said George’s chairman Gary C. George. “His leadership and kindness will be missed.”

A funeral service through Sisco Funeral Chapel of Springdale was held Aug. 7 at Robinson Avenue Church of Christ.