Jackson Allen Curlin, 71, passed away at home on June 26, 2022 with his family by his side.
Jack was born on April 4, 1951 in Dallas, Texas to Tom and Betty Curlin. He graduated from Waxahachie High School in 1969 and the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas in 1974.
Jack worked most of his career as an accountant at Tyler Refrigeration (now Carrier Corporation) for 30 years and enjoyed a post-retirement job with his friends Dennis and Beverly Horak at Boyce Feed and Grain.
Never one for the limelight, Jack was always happy to help when needed. His service to the community included the Baylor Hospital Board of Directors, various city boards, Rotary Club, and countless school events and activities over the years.
A stage 4 lymphoma diagnosis in his 20s along with secondary cancers throughout his life gave Jack a wise and grateful perspective. He never complained about his health issues, even behind closed doors, and didn't let much ruffle his feathers. He was pleasantly surprised and thankful to live into his 70s.
Jack was a gentle and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was happily married to his wife Nelda Dyess Curlin for 48 years. They were blessed with their daughter, Allison Curlin Shanahan, son-in-law Michael Shanahan, and two precious grandsons, Jackson and Benjamin Shanahan. Jack is also survived by his beloved brother Tom Curlin, sister-in-law Treacy Curlin, and nephew Alex Curlin.
Jack most enjoyed spending time with family and traveling. Family vacations were always a priority during Allison's childhood. After retirement, Jack and Nelda road tripped throughout America and soaked up the beauty of national parks and beaches. When Allison and her family moved to Europe, Jack finally convinced Nelda to cross the pond and they combined family visits with travel around various parts of Europe. When Allison and her family settled in Pittsburgh after five years of living overseas, Jack and Nelda decided that had been more than enough years of distance between them and bought the house next door. Jack was thrilled to be reunited with Allison, Mike, Jackson and Ben and enjoyed seeing them almost every day. He was never happier than when playing ping pong or throwing a football with his grandsons, and the feeling was mutual. Allison loved looking out the window when the boys were playing in the yard and seeing her dad had joined them for a spontaneous game of catch. The entire family will always cherish those very special years of living next door to each other and being together for moments big and small.
A private memorial service is planned.
Interment will be in the Waxahachie City Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center.