We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Jack Thomas Humes from Whitesboro, Texas, on November 4, 2024, at the age of 86. Jack passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Jack was born in Council Bluffs, IA, on December 3, 1937 to Geraldine (Harkins) and William Thomas Humes. His father’s career with the Union Pacific Railroad inspired Jack’s love of trains. 

Jack attended Grinnell College for one year before receiving an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. Just before graduating, he met the love of his life, Sandra Jean Lewis, and they quickly married that Christmas setting off on a 64-year adventure together.

Their first stop was a move to Germany, where they welcomed their first son, Jack Junior, “Tom”. Jack and Sandy moved 11 more times over the course of his military career and had three more children along the way: Todd Edwin, Traci Sue, and Troy David.
Jack honorably served two tours in Vietnam, earned a Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering, taught Electrical Engineering at West Point, and made many contributions in the field of artillery. 

After 20 years of dedicated service to his country, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel and moved on to the next adventure.

In 1980, Jack relocated his family to sunny Southern California, where he worked as a Systems Engineer at Litton Data Systems. Over the next 19 years, he advanced artillery system technology and was honored with the Sam Sternbach Award for his technical excellence and leadership. He again traveled the world promoting Litton products and, most importantly, connecting with people everywhere he went.

In 1999, Jack, Sandy, and Troy moved to Whitesboro, TX, where they built their dream home. Jack and Sandy shared a love for all things old, and opened Yellow Front Antiques and later Butterfield Stage Stop Emporium right across the street. The best part of the shop for Jack was in meeting and forming great relationships with the many wonderful people of Whitesboro and beyond. 

Jack was the ultimate storyteller, known for his larger-than-life personality. He possessed a strong will, unwavering determination, and a profound love for and desire to support his family and the community he loved.  

In addition to playfully engaging with nearly everyone who wandered by the store, Jack contributed to his community in numerous ways. He was actively involved in Rotary, Keep Whitesboro Beautiful, the Whitesboro Restoration Board, and the Chamber of Commerce. His contributions earned him the Community Leadership Award in 2008, 2011, and 2014. 

Additionally, Jack played an active role in his church community, where he greeted thousands of people at Breakfast at the Community Kitchen.

Jack is survived by his wife, Sandy; their four children, Jack Jr. (Judy), Todd (Lisa), Traci (Kevin), and Troy; four grandchildren, Laura, Oriel, Abbie and Rachel; brother, Jim; cousin, Julie; and nephew, Jeff. 

Jack was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, hero, and he is dearly missed.
Memorial services honoring Jack will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 25, 2024 at First Presbyterian Church of Whitesboro. A reception will follow the services in the reception hall at the church.