Obituary: Deacon Gene David Tackett

The Diocese of Tucson is filled with sorrow to announce the passing of Deacon Gene David Tackett, on June 26, 2025.

Gene was born December 24, 1936, in Memphis, Texas, to John and Minnie Tackett. His parents relocated to Phoenix where he spent the next 18 years of his life. He developed a love for photography from an early age and was encouraged by his mother after she let him convert a coat closet into a darkroom. After graduating from high school, he enrolled at Biola University in La Mirada, CA, where he studied theology. Soon after, he enlisted in the United States Army and spent the next 28 years serving his country as a still photography and motion picture specialist until his retirement in 1984. His countless assignments included documenting the war in Vietnam and filming classified meetings in Washington, D.C.

He met the love of his life, Mary, in 1960, when they both acted in a local musical while he was stationed at Ft. Huachuca, AZ. They married the following year and thus began a lifelong adventure traveling the world and raising their family. Some of their most treasured memories were visiting the Vatican while stationed overseas and embarking on an Alaskan cruise in their later years.

Gene converted to Catholicism in 1962, and one of his proudest moments was being ordained a Deacon in 2003. He was a 4th degree Knight of Columbus and enjoyed serving the community with his fellow knights. Gene was a caring husband and father who read voraciously, loved puzzles, fishing and building model airplanes and ships. He loved flying and built and flew his own ultralight plane. He had a wicked sense of humor, a soft spot for animals, and never made a fuss about anything. He was a humble and giving servant of the Lord and took great pleasure in helping others.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Joe and Jerry, and his beloved daughter Corinne and son Mark. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary, two sons: David Tackett, John (Sue) Tackett, and one daughter, Cynthia (Darrin) Jordan. He was a proud grandfather of five and great-grandfather of two.

His family states:

"Gene’s passing leaves a giant void, but we take comfort in knowing that he is at peace and no longer in pain. His legacy of love, laughter and service will live on through the many lives he touched."

• Rosary on Monday, July 7 at 10:00 a.m., at Our Lady of the Mountains Roman Catholic Church, 1425 East Yaqui Street, Sierra Vista, AZ  85650
• Funeral Mass and Military Honors to follow.