Jackson Hamish Tepa

Jackson Hamish Tepa, 61, of Medford, OR, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ October 7, 2021 with his family at his side. Jackson was born June 6, 1960 in the Gilbert Islands. His mother died a few days later; subsequently, he was raised by his aunt in the Solomon Islands. After high school, Jackson moved to Tuvalu to take care of his grandfather’s property.
Jackson continued his education and earned a degree in agriculture. During his training he met his wife Pauleen. The two were married in 1985, and to this union came five children. Jackson worked for eighteen years as the head manager of the only store on his island where people could buy food, clothing, and supplies.
Despite his accomplishments, Jackson wanted a better life for his family. In 2005 they moved from Tuvalu to Medford, OR. For the first couple of years, Jackson worked two jobs to provide for his family. In time, he took a job caring for elderly patients in a foster home. Two years later, he opened up his own foster home and partnered with the VA to care for veterans in their final days.
Jackson enjoyed working with the elderly, giving excellent care and showing genuine compassion. In 2009 Jackson was honored with the National Family Caregivers Month Award for his exemplary care and support to veterans. Jackson operated his foster home for twelve years.
Jackson was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a faithful friend. He was a selfless man, who helped people without expecting anything in return. In 2019 he received the Lord Jesus Christ by grace through faith and was gloriously saved. He was a faithful member of Jackson County Baptist Church in Medford.
Jackson is survived by his wife of 36 years, Pauleen of Medford, OR; his children Abs (Cindy) of White City, OR; VJ (Ninah) of Fiji; Taima (Carlos), TJ, and Noah of Medford, OR; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father Tepa, his mother Tekaboi, and his aunt Teresia. Jackson will be deeply missed and always loved.
Funeral services will be held at Perl Funeral Home in Medford, Saturday, October 23, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. with a graveside service to follow.