Siloam Springs Remembers William “Bill” Jackson, Barber, Pilot, and Community Pillar
William “Bill” Jackson, a lifelong resident of Siloam Springs, Arkansas, passed away recently at the age of 84. Born July 8th, 1941, Jackson’s life was one of varied pursuits and deep community involvement, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.
Jackson’s early life took him to New Orleans at the age of 14, where he spent five years working as a roofer. It was during weekend visits home that he met Marilyn, who would become his wife of over 63 years, at a local dance. By 1961, he had returned to Siloam Springs with Marilyn to start a family.
Returning to Siloam Springs, Jackson continued his roofing work and later added machinist work at Webb Wheel to his resume. In 1976, he pursued a new career path, attending barber school. Upon completion of his training, he partnered with Jerry Price to open the City Barbershop in downtown Siloam Springs. For three decades, the City Barbershop served as a local hub, with Bill and Jerry becoming familiar faces and trusted confidants to generations of customers. They sold the shop in 2006.
Beyond his professional life, Jackson was an avid outdoorsman. He was a dedicated hunter and fisherman, skills he utilized to provide for his family. His adventurous spirit extended to the skies as well; in the early 1980s, he became an instrument-rated flight instructor. Even with his newfound passion for aviation, he continued to enjoy his boats and motorcycles, finding joy in sharing these hobbies with his family and friends.
Jackson’s commitment to his community extended beyond his work and hobbies. He was a long-time member of the First Baptist Church “Upper Room” Sunday school class, where he greeted and prayed with fellow members for decades. Demonstrating his caring nature, he often made house calls, bringing his barbering skills to those who were homebound or unable to visit the shop.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Jackson of Siloam Springs; his son, Michael Jackson of Dover, New Hampshire; his sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Bub Joyce of Houston, Texas; his nephew, Butch (and Georgenia) Hagedorn of Siloam Springs; his niece, Kelly Smith of Dallas, Texas; his niece, Tonya (and Brian) Mobley of Bella Vista, Arkansas; and his nephew, Kent (and Jamie) Riley of Gill, Massachusetts.
Jackson was preceded in death by his son, Mitchell Jackson; his parents, Robert and Barsha Jackson; his sister, Mary and her husband Eddie Hagedorn; his brother, Bobby Jackson; his beloved in-laws, Bump and Nadine Younger; and his sister-in-law, Linda Parks, as well as many dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held on February 14, 2026, at 2 p.m. At Wasson Funeral Home, located at 441 Hwy. 412 W., Siloam Springs, Arkansas. Those wishing to share memories or condolences can sign the online guestbook at www.wassonfuneralhome.com.
