John W Lovell

December 14,1926- March 21, 2025

Jack was a member of the Greatest Generation who grew up during the Great Depression, served his country in wartime, and returned to build America.

John “Jack” William Lovell was born the 2nd son to Frank and Evangeline "Eva" (Simmons) Lovell in College Point, Long Island, New York on December 14, 1926. He grew up in Rockaway Beach with his three siblings, Gil, Dorothy, and Richard. After graduation, Jack enlisted in the Army as did his brothers. He served in the Philippines and Japan as a member of the 77th Infantry Division and the 11th Airborne Division. After completing his service, he returned to Rockaway and worked as a lifeguard for the beach patrol. During one summer, Jack was introduced to Mary Kiely at a dance, and they married on November 18, 1950. As a newlywed, he worked for the Long Island Lighting Company as a lineman. Their first child, John Thomas was born in 1952. In 1953, they decided to move to Florida where Mary’s parents had relocated. Kim and Lisa were born as first-generation Floridians in 1955 and 1963 respectively.

Jack joined the Gill Hotel Group working as a manager for several years at The Jolly Roger, The Escape Hotel, and The Yankee Clipper Hotel until he decided to return to civil service and joined the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department. He was promoted to Homicide Detective in 3 years and served 20 total years before retiring. During that time, he was awarded Policeman of the Year for valor. He continued his work with the Broward County State Attorney’s Office for another 18 years working as an investigator. He was assigned to a special unit of professionals in the Metropolitan Investigative Unit and liaison between Broward County and Canadian law enforcement. Jack received many commendations for his surveillance work in organized crime.

While putting in many long hours of investigative work, he made time to volunteer as a physical education teacher and a winning basketball coach for the Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Chargers, where all three children attended parochial school.

After he retired, Jack and Mary moved back up to upstate New York, the Maryland seashore, and the Georgia mountains until finally settling in New Smyrna Beach, FL in 2014. His wonderful wife, Mary, of 65 years passed away the following year in April.

Jack was fortunate to have his son, John, nearby which allowed him to live out his life in the comfort of his home with his sweet dog, Emily, by his side.

Jack will always be remembered for his countless stories from his extraordinary life.

He was a loving father to John, Kim (Mike Butler), and Lisa. He was also a wonderful grandfather to Joseph (Joe) and Julia Butler. They spent countless hours through the years exchanging stories and enjoying each other's company.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Rest In Peace, Jack Lovell AKA Steve Storm ❤️