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Jack William Nurney Jr., 94, peacefully transitioned to his Heavenly Home on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023. He was the son of Jack W. Nurney, Sr. and Virginia Tourtellot Nurney. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 64 years, Ann H. Nurney and his loving sister, Virginia N. Harlow.

Defined by truth, honor, and integrity, Jack was the epitome of a true Southern gentleman. He grew up on the Nansemond River in Bennetts Creek, where he loved to row his boat, fish, and visit childhood friends. Jack loved laughing at family gatherings, traveling, and feeding the hummingbirds. His humble devotion to his family, church, and community was evident in all he did. His love for our Lord and sense of personal integrity guided his life. He truly walked the path of life as a beacon of Christian light. His exceptional character, gracious demeanor, civic-mindedness, servant’s heart and genuine faith are inextricably woven throughout the tapestry of his full and fruitful life.

Jack graduated from Suffolk High School and then completed his undergraduate education at Virginia Military Institute, in Lexington, Virginia. He joined the Army and served his country during the Korean War. At the conclusion of his military service, he attended The Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. Afterward, he returned home and was hired at Woodward and Elam Insurance Agency in Suffolk, Virginia, where he spent 18 years. During this time, he married the love of his life and they grew their family to include their three children. He subsequently became President of Nurney-Stephenson Insurance Co., where he remained for 23 years and later retired with J. Walter Hosier & Son, Inc.

He was a lifelong member of Suffolk Christian Church, where he faithfully served on various boards and committees throughout his lifetime. He was a member of the Alumni Association at VMI and was an active supporter of local youth interested in attending VMI. He participated in VMI recruiting activities throughout Hampton Roads. He also continued to support cadets during their tenure with visits, letters, phone calls and gifts of Suffolk peanuts.

Jack served as Chairman of the Suffolk Chapter of the American Red Cross and Bloodmobile, Chairman of Nansemond-Suffolk United Way, member of Suffolk Highway Safety Commission and member of the Board of Directors of Elon Home for Children. He was a member of the Board of Trustees and Treasurer of Birdsong Trust Fund as well as member and former Chairman of the Board of Zoning Appeals of the City of Suffolk. He was a member and former President of the Suffolk Rotary Club, a member of Suffolk Tomorrow, and a member of the Board of Directors of Louise Obici Memorial Hospital for 20 years. Jack received the First Citizen of Suffolk award in 1997.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt love and appreciation to his daily care provider, Sam Cousar, for her fun-loving spirit and warm-hearted care. They are also grateful to Sandi Pauli, Joyce Brinkley, and the compassionate staff of Trinity Hospice. A special thank you to Sam of Alliance Medical Equipment for providing exceptional service. Lastly, we express deep gratitude to Mary Edens for lovingly walking alongside our family during this time.

Jack is survived by his daughters, Ann N. Davies (Jeff) and Susan N. Griffin (Mike); son, William L. Nurney (Eleanor); grandchildren, Michael Davies (Melissa), Matthew Davies (Stacee), Margaret Davies, Jordan Nurney, and Jake Nurney; great-grandchildren, Jonathan Davies, Hannah Grace Davies, and Nixon Davies; nephews, John Harlow (Vicki), David Harlow (Brenda), and Bruce Harlow; along with dear great-nieces and great-nephews.

A funeral service was held at Suffolk Christian Church on Wednesday, Oct.4, 2023, at 11 a.m., with a reception following. The burial was private. The family received friends on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023, from 6 to 8 p.m. at R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home and Crematory, Downtown Suffolk Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Suffolk Christian Church (Care and Concern Committee), The Suffolk Foundation, or The VMI Foundation. Condolences may be registered at RWBakerFH.com.