John Joe Jack Bumpass Pearce

John Bumpass Joe Jack Pearce, 94 died Friday, April 22, 2005. A memorial service will be at 10:00 am, Tuesday, April 26 at First Baptist Church, Waco, Texas with Dr. Scott Walker and Dr. John Wood officiating. Burial will be next to his beloved wife of 68 years, Mary Kathryn, at Waco Memorial Park. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Monday, April 25 at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home. Mr. Pearce was born on October 20, 1910 to Joseph and Lizzie Pearce in Westminster, Texas. He was a member and Deacon of First Baptist Church, Waco and actively supported the ministries of the church. He was a dedicated and committed friend to Baylor University and its standards of educational excellence. Joe Jack was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His life, while distinguished with a multitude of civic, athletic, military, and social honors and accomplishments, will most be remembered for his dedication to God, family, and country. Joe Jack is an American hero. Joe Jack was a star athlete in high school, elected co-captain of the Baylor Bear football team and won letters in basketball and track. His Baylor fame lay in football. As Bear quarterback during the mid 1930’s, he earned All-Southwest Conference and All-American honors for his efforts. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears but chose to begin his teaching career in 1935. He married Mary Kathryn Moor on December 23, 1935. During World War II, Mr. Pearce served with honor and courage in the U.S. Navy as a commissioned officer. His war time responsibilities included the teaching and physical preparedness training of Navy fighter pilots. Mr. Pearce and his family came to Waco in August, 1950, where he became director of health and physical education for the Waco Independent School District. He served in that position until his retirement in 1976. Retirement brought new challenges and opportunities for Joe Jack. He continued his support of Baylor University by serving as photographer for the football and basketball programs. He enjoyed that until his 91st birthday. He is a National and World Racquetball champion and holds many track and field records. He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Kathryn, the love of his life, and brothers James, Hailds, Jones, and Melville. Survivors include sons, John and his wife Jan of Sarasota, FL, Paul and his wife Marian of Conroe, TX, Jay Joe Jack and his wife Rochele of Fulton, TX, and daughter, Jane Childs of Waco, TX; Grandchildren, Kerri Leigh Pearce Lauderdale and husband Billy of Waco, Lisa Ann Pearce Lewis and husband Chuck of Waco, J.D. Pearce and his wife Elva of Euless, TX, Allison Joy Childs of Dallas, Allen Clifton Childs of Waco; Great Grandchildren, Zachary Zac Pearce Lauderdale, Kathryn Katy Ann Lauderdale, Julianna Paige Lewis, Jack Pearce Lewis, Miranda Pearce, and Micah Pearce. Survivors also include a host of nieces, nephews, and their children. In lieu of flowers, Joe Jack requested that memorials be sent to Central Texas Senior Ministry/Meals on Wheels, Hillcrest Community Hospice, Baylor University, First Baptist Church, Waco or a charity of the donor’s choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Memorial Guestbook” at www.wilkirsonhatchbailey.com. WILKIRSON-HATCH-BAILEY