Jack Crofton passed away peacefully at his home on April 15, 2025, at the age of 79, with his beloved wife, Cecelia, and their daughter, Jordan at his side.  A true gentleman, his integrity, kindness, and quiet strength touched all who knew him.  Despite a valiant battle with dementia in his final years, Jack faced his challenges with remarkable courage, grace, and an unwavering spirit.  He will be laid to rest at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, a fitting tribute to his distinguished service.  A service and celebration of his extraordinary life will be announced at a later date.

Born on March 15, 1946, Jack was raised in San Francisco until the age of 16, followed by a family move to Chicago for one year and then on to LaGrange, Georgia, where he completed his senior year of high school.  He graduated in 1969 from St.Bernard College in Cullman, Alabama.

Jack’s passion for aviation was the cornerstone of his career.  He served with distinction in the United States Air Force, both on active duty and in the reserves, retiring as a major in 1990.  He flew the C-141 and C-5 aircraft and was based at Charleston Air Force Base in South Carolina, Travis AFB in California and Dover AFB in Delaware.  Among other ribbons, he was awarded an Air Medal for heroism, outstanding achievement and meritorious service while participating in aerial flights, a testament to his unwavering commitment to duty.

In 1977, Jack embarked on a storied civilian career as a pilot with Delta Air Lines, rising through the ranks to retire in 2005 as a Captain on the Boeing 777.  Based in Boston, New Orleans, Fort Lauderdale, and Atlanta, he navigated the skies with precision and pride.  Retirement from Delta did not dim his love for flying; he continued to soar with Citation Shares for a year, then ventured to India to fly for Jet Airways for two years.  His final chapter in aviation was spent imparting his vast expertise as a simulator instructor at Delta for six years, mentoring the next generation of pilots with patience and wisdom.

At the heart of Jack’s life was his family.  He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, cousin, uncle and friend.  Married to Cecelia for 36 years, he was a devoted husband whose love for her never wavered.  As a hands-on father, he took immense pride in his daughter, Jordan, nurturing her with steadfast support and celebrating her every milestone.  The arrival of his grandson, James, brought him boundless joy.  Jack cared deeply about his five siblings and their families – Rich (Meg), Tom (Mary Ann), Phil (Pat), Ed (Janet), and Sally (James).  His family brought immense purpose to his life.

Jack’s adventurous spirit knew no bounds.  An avid sailor, skier, surfer, cyclist, camper, and hiker, he explored the world with an insatiable curiosity.  He ran over 20 marathons, spent hundreds of hours underwater as a skilled scuba diver, and traveled all over the world.  Jack’s legacy is one of integrity, service, and an unyielding appreciation for life’s beauty.  His gentle wisdom, infectious laughter, and warm presence left an indelible mark on all who crossed his path.  

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eileen and Jack Crofton, his infant sister, Mary Eileen, and his niece, Morgan Crofton.  He is survived by his wife, Cecelia Jordan Crofton, his daughter, Jordan Crofton Reynolds (Jamie), his grandson, James, as well as his siblings, many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends, all of whom will carry his light forward.

Heartfelt gratitude is extended to Amy, Tara, and Kylyn of Caring Hands Elderly Care, and to the compassionate caregivers at Somerby who affectionately knew him as “Captain Jack.”  The family also expresses deep appreciation to Southern Grace Hospice for their loving support in Jack’s final days, ensuring he was surrounded by comfort and dignity.

No services are scheduled at this time. 

We welcome you to provide your condolences, thoughts, and memories on our Tribute Wall.

Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Peachtree City, www.mowells.com