From: Rick Pettit
It is with great sadness that I must inform you that Jack Jeffries went on eternal patrol this morning.
Jack was one of the founding members of the Carolina Piedmont Base and was responsible for recruiting many submariners to join our base and the USSVI. He served as Vice Commander for many years and was our Kaps-4-Kids coordinator. Jack was a member of the color guard, created the Submarine education program for JROTC units in the Charlotte area, and participated in many regional and national conventions and reunions. He was a Plank Owner on the USS Nathanael Greene, SSBN 636 and was very active in the Nat Greene reunion group.
Everyone knew and loved Jack. He never met a stranger and could talk to anyone; and he did. He loved his Navy service and the USSVI not to mention his love of horses and horse racing. He was a jockey in his younger years and that passion never diminished. During the last few years, Jack and I spent many days at the track in New Jersey and he was overjoyed with the memories. He was always there with a smile and a story and is the most colorful person I have ever met. He will be greatly missed by many people nation wide. I miss him greatly.
Jack was a very devoted Christian and along with his beloved wife “Lady J” have been very active members of the Cowboy Church in Pageland, SC. Please keep Carol Jeffries in your prayers as she will need our love and support through this difficult time.
There will be a memorial service but no date or time has been determined. I will keep you updated as I get more information.
Jack, you put up a good fight but it is time for you to rest your oars. We have the watch Sailor! You have been relieved.
Rick Petitt
Carolina Piedmont Base Commander
