Jack T. Boyd

CHARLESTON, IL – Jack T. Boyd, age 95 and life-long resident of Fairgrange, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, August 28, 2021, while at Hilltop Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation.  There will be no services and his cremated body will be laid to rest, next to his wife of 72 years, in Roselawn Cemetery at a later time.  Those wishing to send cards to Jack’s family may address them to Dr. Jerry Boyd, P.O. Box 406, Charleston, Illinois 61920.  Those wishing to honor his memory with a charitable donation may do so to Lincolnland Hospice or Christ First Church. Gifts may be mailed to Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, Illinois 61920.

Jack was born January 30, 1926, in Mattoon, Illinois, a son of Adolphus and Delphi Boyd.  He was a graduate of Rardin High School and admirably and honorable served his country during WWII with the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Cascade.  Following his marriage to the love of his life, Janice Sue McClure on July 11, 1948, Jack went to work for Keaney’s Furniture where he learned the art of upholstery.  His upholstery skills were exceptional, and he continued to use them throughout his life.  After leaving the furniture store, Jack went to work for the Nickel Plate Railroad (later known as Norfolk & Western) where he would work for the next 30 plus years, beginning as a fireman and later promoted to engineer.  As a member of the United Transportation Union (UTU) he also served the local union as president.

Jack was a spiritual man who possessed a deep and abiding faith and religious belief.  For many years he and Janice attended Bushton Christian Church, and then placed membership with First Christian Church (now Christ First Church) in Charleston.  He was also a member of Charleston Masonic Lodge #35 A.F. & A.M.

Following retirement, he spent a great deal of time tinkering with odd jobs around the family home, keeping everything in good repair, and was meticulous in making sure the lawn and landscaping were neat and well groomed.  Jack was always committed to personal health as well, exercising for at least one hour a day. He took pride in always have a nice car, but it was his family of which he was most proud.  The accomplishments and successes of his children and grandchildren gave him great joy.

Jack is survived by two sons, Dr. Jerry L. Boyd and wife Melissa of Charleston and Jeff Boyd of Jacksonville, Florida; three grandchildren, Dr. Sara Boyd of Warrenton, Virginia, Justin Boyd and wife Anna of Manhattan, New York, and Jessica Standfield and husband Mike of Jacksonville, Florida; two great-grandchildren, Autumn and Gabe Standfield; a sister, Rosemary Rardin and several nieces and nephews.  In addition to his parents and his wife, Jack was preceded by several siblings.   

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