Thomas E Jackson Jr.

Thomas Jackson Jr., 53, of Vermilion, passed away at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus following a brief illness.

Affectionately known as “Tommy” or “TJ” by family and friends, he was born May 31, 1973, in Amherst, Ohio, and was a lifelong resident of Vermilion.

TJ graduated from Vermilion High School with the Class of 1992. He worked for U.S. Steel in Lorain in the main offices before eventually turning his love of music and entertainment into his own business, TJ’s DJ and Karaoke. For more than 20 years, TJ DJed alongside his dad and also provided sound and technical support for many area bands. He loved music loud and believed a good stereo should be felt just as much as it was heard.

If there was one thing TJ loved almost as much as music, it was going fast. Whether he was behind the wheel of a car, out on a boat, at the drag strip, or on anything else with a motor, TJ was happiest when there was a little speed involved. Fast cars, powerful engines, loud stereos, and drag racing were simply part of who he was. If it had horsepower, made noise, or could go faster than it probably needed to, chances are TJ was interested.

He was a former member of Lakeview Baptist Church in Vermilion and a member of the Mustang Club. He also enjoyed collecting guns and spending time with the many friends he made throughout his life.

Tommy could certainly be stubborn-a trait those who knew him well would readily admit-but beneath that stubborn streak was a generous man who was always willing to lend a hand. He had a large circle of friends and was the kind of person people knew they could call when they needed help. He was especially proud to be a loving friend and mentor to Kaden, a relationship that meant a great deal to him.

He is survived by his parents, Thomas Sr. and Deborah (nee Lantz) Jackson of Vermilion; four aunts; two uncles; many cousins and his beloved dog, Layla.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Melissa Ann Igoe; maternal grandparents, Clyde and Phyllis Lantz; and paternal grandparents, Gerald and Oleta Jackson.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 12 Noon at Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. Interment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion.

Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.