Gone to join his beloved wife Minnie, who departed this life in June 2005.
Jack was born in Drumenia, Glenshesk, one of the eldest in a family of 12. While working on the family farm he attended agricultural college at Greenmount. An accomplished horse-ploughman, he was nevertheless proud to have driven one of the first Fordson tractors to be used for ploughing in the area.

Eventually leaving the farming to younger members Jack moved into building and construction, and was involved in a variety of projects around the country.

Often working along with his son Christopher (Bisto) he left his mark in the formation of such constructions as the harbour wall at Ballycastle, agricultural sheds all over the Glens and beyond, the factory at Fairhill Street and the M2 motorway at the Ballymena bypass, where he worked as a foreman.

Jack gave many years of service as a part-time member of the Northern Ireland Fire Brigade during the fifties, sixties and seventies.
He was always involved in community activities and got a special thrill out of coaching the winning tug-o-war team at Ballycastle Community week in 1982. (See photograph)

A keen sportsman, he enjoyed the country pursuits of shooting and fishing, and had a great love of nature and particularly of the beauty of his beloved Glenshesk.

Indeed he continued to 'cut the turf' long after it was the norm, as an excuse to get out into the clear mountain air. He was a great storyteller and many a tea-break on building-sites or winter ceili round the fire held listeners enthralled to hear of some adventure or amazing event.

Jack will be remembered by his family of nine as most of all a loving and devoted father and grandfather. Together with Minnie he raised his family during the post-war years when material goods were not plentiful, but through their hard work and cheerful enterprise the family now remember a happy and carefree childhood.

He continued to attend St Patrick's and St Brigid's Church until sadly he became ill in his early seventies.
His last years have been spent in the exceptional care of staff at Leabank Nursing Home, who also looked after Minnie. Their dedication beyond the call of duty is deeply appreciated by the family, who would like to take this opportunity to express their thanks.