Westerly, RI - Ben E, Jackson, 91, coach, golf pro, entrepreneur and devoted UT Longhorn, passed away at his home on Saturday, August 1, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Barbara (Gertz) Jackson, of Settlers Landing, Westerly, RI and formerly of Texas.

Born in Plainview, TX, he was the son of the late Albert and MinnieBelle Jackson.

Ben was a proud graduate of the University of Texas-Austin. He held both BA and MA degrees. While at UT he ran track and field and set a long jump record. He was also able to fulfill his childhood dream to play football there.

Ben coached high school football at several Texas high schools and served as athletic director.

A longtime resident of Weatherford, Texas, Ben owned and operated J-B Office Supply, a family business; Ben played in several West Texas Open golf tournaments. He also served as a City Councilman.

He taught golf with Florida Golf Schools at many locations across the country and Europe before training aspiring instructors with the United States Golf Teachers Federation and becoming Vice-President. He was the first golf pro at Stonington Country Club in Connecticut in the 1990's.

He opened Ben Jackson's FastFirst Golf Academy in the early 2000's, which he and Barbara ran for many years. FastFirst specialized in developing clubhead speed and distance. Golf professionals and Champions such as Tom Kite, Olin Bowne, World Champion Long Drive Champion Sean, the Beast, Fister and Long Drive record holder Scott Smith made their way to Ashaway to learn from the Distance Master. Students and teachers from all over the world came to learn or become certified FastFirst instuctors. His impact is particularly strong in both Japan and the Republic of Korea. His research and input were also instrumental in the development of the Swing Speed Radar and Tour Tempo.

After retiring from teaching in person, he began Skype-and Zooming. His last lesson was with his student in the UK the week before he died. He was working on a new development called the Spin Move which was getting extraordinary results. He loved teaching and loved inspiring and helping his players improve and achieve their goals.

A Texan and a gentleman through and through; he was teaching, creating and innovating until the end.

He will be dearly missed by his wife and business partner Barbara; and his four children, Becky Chane and her husband Billy, Sheri Lacey, Julie Vinson and Amy Solito and her husband Shawn; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Ben was predeceased by his brother Joe Jackson; and a nephew.

Visiting hours ae respectfully omitted. A private funeral service and burial will take place at the convenience of the family. Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce Street, Westerly is in care of the arrangements. For online condolences please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com