Zackie Sue Salmon

Zackie Sue Salmon

Zackie was born to Ruth (Eunice Reynolds) and Patrick H. Salmon in Hall County, Memphis Texas on Dec. 29, 1947. She passed on April 24, 2025 in Santa Fe, New Mexico after a long illness. She is survived by her son Demian (Nicki), sister Pati (Bob), 3 granddaughters Rylie, Bridgette and Holland, sister-in-law Gail and Zackie’s partner of 42 years, Ann Hild. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Richard, and her grandson Aidan. Zackie remained close to an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and Sammie who was like another sister to her.

Zackie grew up wandering the fields her daddy farmed in Hall County, Texas, until the family moved to a home (with indoor plumbing!) in Amarillo TX in 1959. After leaving grade school in Leslie, she attended school in Amarillo, graduating from Palo Duro High School (1966).

In 1969 she moved to California where she worked a variety of ODD jobs. She and Pati attended many rock concerts including The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, and Janice Joplin.

In 1971 after Demian was born, she returned to Amarillo to be near family and worked as a printer. Eventually she opened her own catering truck business, “Zak’s Snacks- the finest in roach coach cuisine”. During her Amarillo years she met the love of her life, Ann.

Ann encouraged Zackie to go to college at Texas Tech University where she obtained a Master of Science. She attended her commencement with Demian, as he obtained his Bachelor of Science at the same time. That day released two wild Salmons into the world of employment.

After college, Zackie and Ann moved north when Ann became professor at the University of WY. Zackie became Director of the McNair Scholars Program at the University, writing grants and having profound impact on first generation college students- many of whom are now faculty at universities nation-wide.

Zackie was immensely proud of Demian’s professional (Dallas Morning News) and family successes. She maintained lifelong friendships with many: Margaret Mary, Trip, Georgie, Michal, Ronnie, Michele and many co-workers. She was especially proud of the successes of her former junior high and college students whom she mentioned often.

Now she is free to enjoy the universe with Aidan, her parents and brother. And she is likely swapping stories with Janice and Jimi. Happy travels Zackie.

Memorial potluck lunch in Laramie, Wy July 13, 2025 at Wyoming Territorial Prison, Horse Barn Theater

Memorial service in Clarendon Texas on ??TBD ??June 21, 2025 at Senior Center:??

Zackie suggested donations to the Aidan P. Salmon Memorial Fund at:

https://www.cftexas.org/donors/fund-options/aidan-p-salmon-memorial-fund/