Jackson Ross Traeger

Jackson Ross Traeger, beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend, passed away on Sunday, July 26, 2026, after a courageous struggle with mental illness.

Born on November 17, 1999, in Jacksonville, Florida, Jackson grew up primarily in Fairhope, Alabama, and Peachtree City, Georgia. He graduated from Auburn University with honors in 2022.

Jackson had a spirit of adventure and a deep-seated curiosity about how the world works. He dreamed of ways to make life better and more equitable for everyone. His stories and essays reflected his vibrant imagination, insatiable curiosity, and keen sense of observation.

Jackson was happiest outdoors. He found peace and joy hiking the trails, kayaking tranquil waters, and challenging himself on disc golf courses and tennis courts.

Jackson treasured his family and was deeply loved in return. He was kind and compassionate; smart and funny; and so lucky at games that he earned the nickname Lucky Larue. He was a terrific dancer and a champion of the underdog. He was honest (well, mostly). He was brave, to a fault. He will be profoundly missed every day.

Jackson’s memory will be cherished always by his parents, Geoffrey Traeger and Rebecca Thompson Traeger. He is lovingly remembered by his brothers and sisters-in-love, John Morgan Traeger and wife, Sarah, and G. Blake Traeger and wife, Arielle. His grandfathers, Richard Traeger and John Thompson, survive him and hold his memory close. Jackson is reunited with his grandmothers, Janet Traeger and Jackie Thompson, who preceded him in death.

He will forever be in the hearts of his uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. And Jackson wouldn’t want us to forget the family dog, Bailey, his faithful companion for most of his adventures over the past 14 years. She will never have a bad word to say about her boy.

The family will hold a private service to celebrate Jackson's life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jackson's memory to the National Alliance on Mental Illness at nami.org or to The JED Foundation at jedfoundation.org

Though Jackson’s time with us was far too brief, his smile, laughter, spirit, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Jackson's family.