Elijah Tackett

Obituary for Elijah Tackett

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Elijah Tackett, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully on September 16, 2025 at the age of 83. Born on August 18, 1942, in Floyd County Kentucky, Elijah lived his life with profound devotion to family, hard work, and a steadfast commitment to those he loved.

Elijah worked 42 years as a machinist at the same company before retiring, but was also a man of many other passions. He cherished the quiet moments spent fishing, the satisfaction of tending to his garden, and the laughter shared during poker nights with family and friends. Even as he grew older, two pots filled with vibrant tomato plants remained a nod to his love for nurturing life, and a trip to the casino reignited his passion for gambling. A "do-it-yourself" kind of guy, Elijah could often be found in his beloved garage, meticulously building and rebuilding anything with an engine, be it large or small.

He was devoted beyond measure to his late wife, Elaine, with whom he shared 61 wonderful years. Following her passing just a few months prior, he exemplified unwavering strength, caring for her lovingly through her illness while facing his own medical challenges. Elijah's paternal instincts were evident by a life long pursuit of child rearing, typically in silent satisfaction. Those who knew him will fondly remember his enjoyment of a glass of VO and a cigar, as well as his evenings spent lost in the world of Westerns, particularly his favorite, Gunsmoke.

He is survived by his son, Doug Tackett, and his grandchildren: Hartzell (Tre) Helton and Michael, Jeremy, and Jason Tackett. His legacy continues with great-grandchildren Tre, Blake, and Kyngston Helton, Laila and Kailynne Barnett, Genesis and Joash Nyawalo, Hailie Spence, and Tilda, Jeremiah, Pierce, and Kash Tackett. Elijah will be fondly remembered by his extended family through Elaine's siblings, including her sister Margie Kiser and brothers Clay and Donnie Large, and siblings-in-law Dave Collier and Marty and Norma Large, as well as their many friends. All who will carry forward his legacy of love, warmth, and the joy found in the simple pleasures of life. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Lucie Tackett, son Derek Tackett, daughter Lana Tackett, grandchild Jeanne Tackett, and Elaine's siblings Bobby, Sue, Joan, Sherry, Webby, Ronald, Ethel, Ruth, and Ruby, and siblings-in-law Jerry, Emerson, Stella, Bruce, Bob, and Junior.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Elijah's remarkable life during the funeral services, which will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 1:30PM with a gathering for family and friends will begin at 12:30PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the funeral home or paypal account @hhelton12.

Elijah Tackett's spirit will live on in our hearts as a reminder of love, resilience, and the importance of family. May he rest in peace.