Jackie "Jack" Ordell Wesnidge, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, peacefully passed away on October 24, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 8, 1941, in the town of Alfalfa, Oklahoma, to his parents, Jack Monroe Wesnidge and Gwendola Irene (Harvey) Wesnidge. Jack's upbringing was deeply rooted in the values of hard work and responsibility. He spent his childhood years living and working on his family farm. He enjoyed spending time with Larry Chapman, who became his life-long best friend. In 1959, Jack enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for four years as a dedicated radar technician. He continued to display the same commitment to service and community throughout his life. Following his own journey to sobriety in 1977, he co-founded the Newcastle AA Group, offering support and guidance to countless individuals on their path to recovery. At the young age of 18, Jack married the love of his life, Norma Gilbert, and together they embarked on a journey of love, family, and adventure. Their union brought them five wonderful children: Frank, Anita, Rita, Steve, and David. Jack's transformation into a doting grandfather marked a turning point in his life. He loved being a grandpa and loved his grandchildren dearly. He sang along with Barney. He watched movies. He played Nintendo and knew how to beat every game. He cooked them a wide variety of meals, but their favorite was biscuits and gravy. His love and devotion knew no bounds as he spoiled them with affection, creating lasting memories and bonds that will forever be cherished. He began his working career at Western Auto before working for many years at Continental Baking Company (Wonder Bread). He also spent several years in construction. Jack enjoyed traveling, a passion that he cultivated during his time as a long-haul truck driver for J.B. Hunt, where he traversed the country and experienced the beauty of different landscapes. Later, he worked at Newcastle Schools as a custodian while caring for Norma, who had many health issues. Jack truly loved and devoted himself to caring for her until her passing.
Jack is survived by his children, Frank and Tammy Wesnidge, Steve and Patrice Wesnidge, David Wesnidge, Anita and Andrew Pierce; grandchildren, Emily Pierce, Britany and Trey Fore, Megan Justus, Steven and Lauren Wesnidge, Josh and Fon Wesnidge, Caitlyn and Daniel Wright, Kyle and Lisa Johnson; granddaughter-in-law, Jamee Wesnidge; great-grandchildren, Lincoln Fore, Lila Fore, Desmond Fore, Alivia Justus, River Justus, Reid Wesnidge, Jax Wesnidge, Wade Wesnidge, Olivia Humphrey, and Riley Johnson; brother, Troy Wesnidge; sister-in-law, Lillian "Bunnie" Wesnidge; brother-in-law, Donald McBride; and a multitude of extended family members and friends who held a special place in his heart.
Jack was preceded in death by his loving wife, Norma Wesnidge; parents, Jack Monroe Wesnidge and Gwendola Irene (Harvey) Wesnidge; daughter, Rita Wiley and her husband Jimmy Wiley; siblings, Sherill Don Wesnidge and Clara Belle McBride; and grandson, Jackie Tyler Wesnidge.
A Celebration of Life service to honor the memory of Jackie "Jack" Ordell Wesnidge will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Moore Funeral and Cremation.
Arrangements are under the compassionate direction of Moore Funeral and Cremation.
Jack's legacy of love, service, and dedication to his family and the recovery community will be forever cherished in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the love he shared with all who knew him.
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