Jack Pershing Wise Jr., age 76, of Glen Carbon, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on March 11, 1949, in Montgomery, Alabama, Jack was the beloved son of the late Jack Pershing Wise Sr. and Juanita (Beasley) Wise.
Jack proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty, integrity, and honor. On April 23, 1973, he married the love of his life, Lillian Bell, in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned more than fifty-two wonderful years.
Jack dedicated his professional life to public service, retiring as a statistician with the Alabama Department of Education after many years of loyal, meticulous service. Outside of his career, Jack found his greatest peace in the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, archery, and his immersion in nature. Whether surrounded by tall trees or calm waters, Jack felt most at home outdoors.
Above all else, Jack treasured his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he delighted in every moment spent with them, spoiling them with love, laughter, and gentle wisdom. Jack had an easy laugh, a joyful spirit, and a genuine love for life that touched everyone he met. Everyone will deeply miss his kindness, humor, and unwavering devotion to those he loved and will forever remember Jack.
Aurviving Jack are his loving wife, Lillian Wise of Glen Carbon, Illinois; his cherished daughter, Juanita (James) Panico of Glen Carbon, Illinois; his dear siblings, Ronald (Beverly) Wise of Montgomery, Alabama, and Martha Ann (Ralph) Avery of Enterprise, Alabama; and his adored grandchildren, Vivian and Nicholas Panico. Nieces, nephews, extended family members, and treasured friends also survive him.
A Celebration of Life honoring Jack will be held at 11:00 A.M. on March 14, 2026, at Glendale Memorial Nature Preserve, 299 Railroad Avenue, DeFuniak Springs, Florida.
Instead of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jack's honor to Glendale Memorial Nature Preserve at glendalenaturepreserve.org.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.