By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
William “Bill” Jackson, an inspiring 96-year-old resident of Morning Pointe of Hardin Valley, embodies the spirit of a living historian and puzzle enthusiast. He has captured the hearts of many, as shown by his growing social media following.
“Recently, videos of Bill and his finished puzzles have started gaining attention on TikTok, where viewers are drawn to both the complexity of the builds and the fact that he’s still learning, creating, and staying curious at 96,” Clarissa Alberto of Morning Pointe shared. “Bill says puzzle-building acts as meditation and therapy for him, and he especially enjoys seeing other residents—and visiting grandchildren—light up when they see the finished pieces.”
The Navy veteran and devoted husband to his late wife of nearly 70 years is also a proud father of four and grandfather of seven. Growing up in Alabama, Bill graduated from Auburn University and attended officer candidate school for the Navy, he proudly served as a Korea and Atomic veteran. His journey continued at Indiana University, where he enthusiastically declared, “Go Hoosiers!” With a rich background in education and broadcasting, he played a pivotal role in running a school and developing teaching materials for children in the School for the Deaf in Texas. He recalled how the school was on the same parade route as JFK. He settled in Knoxville in the sixties and dedicated his talents to the University of Tennessee, leaving a lasting impact through his commitment to education.
Bill’s fascination with puzzles took root in childhood and flourished in his retirement, where he spent time in a studio at the Museum of Natural History in Murfreesboro, demonstrating and teaching the art of jewelry making. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he found joy in assembling puzzles alongside his wife’s caregiver while his wife enjoyed her reading. The largest puzzle he tackled was a remarkable 2,000 pieces, with most of his challenges ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 pieces. Now, his desk is filled with a stack of puzzles, each one waiting to be brought to life.
Currently, he is captivated by three dimensional puzzles, which he describes as “tactically irresistible.” Bill has even created a working pinball puzzle and intricate puzzles that involve 75 pages of instructions, showcasing his dedication to the craft. He actively encourages fellow residents to engage in activities like puzzles, believing they are “vital for keeping the mind sharp.” Bill believes puzzles are “something of value and very enjoyable.” Moreover, he views puzzles as a fantastic way for children to remain engaged and steer clear of screens.
“It has to be more than just exercise,” Bill believes; he sees it as an opportunity to “invigorate the mind.”
His hope is to inspire others to explore passions “beyond Bingo or watching TV.” Bill connects with fellow residents and engages in conversations with those facing Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, passionately fostering their involvement and encouraging them to view puzzles as a meaningful journey towards therapy.
