Deborah Rae Jackson

Deborah Rae Jackson, age 74, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana.  She was born on November 26, 1951, in Lafayette, Indiana, to the late Raymond E. Hilt and Ina Aldine (Turner) Hilt.

Deborah devoted her entire professional career as the administrative assistant to Dr. Patrick Loehrer at Indiana University’s Hematology/Oncology Department, before retiring in 2018. She took great pride in her work and cherished the professional relationships and friendships she built over the years.

Deborah was a constant presence in her daughters’ lives, spending many years supporting them as members of the Ben Davis Marching Giants. She also served as Secretary for the Ben Davis Band Boosters. Deborah had a deep love for animals, especially cats, and lovingly cared for many stray cats throughout her life.

In addition to her parents, Deborah was preceded in death by her brothers, Donald Hilt, Edward Hilt, Francis Hilt, and Kenneth Hilt; and her sisters, Nancy Haynes and Doris Hilt.

She is survived by her husband of 53 years, David G. Jackson; her daughters, Erica B. Jackson and Alicia (Kevin) Woodcock; her grandchildren, Tyler Woodcock, David Mason Popcheff, Shelby Woodcock, and Eston Woodcock; and her great-grandson, Rylee Woodcock. She is also survived by her sister, Joyce Taylor; her brother, Roger Hilt; and several nieces and nephews.

Those who knew Deborah will remember her devotion to her family, her quiet generosity, her compassionate heart, and her famously ornery sense of humor.

Visitation will be from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Face Low-Cost Animal Clinic 1505 Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46201.