Jack Lee Eakins

Jack Lee Eakins, age 82, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012. Jack was born April 30, 1930, in St. Louis, Mo. to Dorothy (Swindell) Eakins Lee and Virgil Eakins. On September 25, 1953, he married Mary Earlene Williams. Jack served the US Army in the Korean and Vietnam wars retiring as Command Sergeant Major. During his 22-year career, he was awarded two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Star Medals, three Army Commendation Medals, and three Air Medals. At the age of 23, Jack was Company Commander at Ft. Bragg, N.C. Making over 100 jumps, Jack was a Paratrooper in the Korean War and served in the 25th Infantry Division during Vietnam. He later taught ROTC at Michigan State University and Lakeside High School in Hot Springs, Ark., where he was also Assistant Football Coach. Jack was a faithful member at First General Baptist Church where he enjoyed greeting his fellow church family each Sunday morning. He was highly respected and adored by his friends and family. He leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Mary Earlene Eakins; two daughters, Lynn (Tony) Shores, Pam (Mike) Shourd; six grandchildren, Jackie (Jerry) Burns, Bryon (Heather) Loy, Andrea (Matt) Donnell of Rison, Jennifer (Mark) Hamilton, Brandon Shourd, Austin Shourd; and 15 great-grandchildren. Visitation is Friday, Nov. 30, from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services will be held at First General Baptist Church in Searcy at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Jack will be honored with a 21 Gun Salute upon his burial at White County Memorial Gardens in Searcy. Arrangements by Powell Funeral Home of Searcy. www.powellfuneralhome.net.