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Jack was born in Caddo, Oklahoma, on January 25, 1938, and lived in West Texas for a few years until his father, Melvin Witherspoon, was killed in an oil well accident when Jack was about six years old. He then spent time in Caddo with his grandparents. He loved Caddo and, when he was older, would return to help his grandparents harvest crops on the farm.
Jack later lived in Midwest City, where he attended Midwest City High School and graduated. Prior to moving there, his mother married Royal Garland Sneed after Jack's father passed away.
After graduating, Jack attended Central State University for several years before deciding to enter the workforce as a draftsman and graphic artist. He had strong artistic skills but chose not to pursue art as a full-time career. Instead, he enjoyed drawing on a personal level, particularly sports cars. He also contributed illustrations to the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) monthly newsletter. His wife, Lona, recently discovered several beautiful drawings of sports cars that she had never seen during their marriage.
Jack also served in the Army, with most of his service in the reserves. Though he was a private person, he valued his experiences and maintained many friendships and close relationships.
Jack worked for Sun Oil Company for many years and later transferred to Dallas, Texas, where he eventually retired. He retired somewhat early but remained very energetic. He loved mowing and caring for the lawn, as well as tending to bushes, trees, and flowers in the yard. He also enjoyed cooking and would often prepare dinner while Lona was still working.
Jack is survived by his wife, Lona Mae Salyer Witherspoon; his sister, Judy Witherspoon Oehlsehlager; his niece, Kerry Egdor Schenke and her husband, Scott Schenke; his nephew, Eric Egdorf and his wife, Tamara Madden; and his cousins, David Witherspoon, Clinton Witherspoon, Charles Semple, Bob Semple, and Billy Witherspoon. He is also remembered fondly by many members of Lona's family and numerous friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Witherspoon; his mother, Viola (Vi) O'Dell Witherspoon Sneed; his stepfather, Royal G. Sneed; and his grandparents from the O'Dell, Witherspoon, and Sneed families.