Jack Alexander Gallant

Jack Alexander Gallant, passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2014, after an extended illness. Jack was a devoted husband, loving father and respected businessman. Jack enjoyed life and was a positive influence on those blessed to have spent time with him.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of over 61 years, Mildred Gallant; two caring and devoted daughters Jackie Ritchie (Mike) and Jill Holt (Craig); four grandchildren Stephanie Schell (Andrew), Matthew Ritchie, Hannah Holt and Mitchell Holt; two great grandchildren Sam Schell and Noah Schell and his sister Grace Snelling.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Grover Adais and Ola Marquis Gallant, and his brother Neal Gallant all of Birmingham, Alabama.

Jack Alexander Gallant was born October 16, 1926, to Grover Adais and Ola Marquis Gallant in Birmingham, Alabama.

Jack accepted Christ when he was twelve years old, and joined Hunter Street Baptist Church. Jack modeled Christ-like behavior in all aspects of his life.

At the age of 14, Jack was appointed Head Ball Boy for the Birmingham Barons professional baseball team. Having control of all the baseballs made Jack the envy of all of his friends. His salary was $1.00 per game.

Jack was a member of the U.S. Maritime Service in 1945 during World War II. After graduation from Ensley High School in 1946, he went to work for Birmingham Transit as a street car operator. In December of 1950, he joined the 31st Infantry Division as part of the Korean Conflict.

Mildred (Meer) and Jack met at Hunter Street Baptist Church in December of 1949. They would later be married on January 17, 1953. Jack went on to work with CIT; White Motor Company in Birmingham, Jacksonville, and Orlando; and Engel Mortgage Company of Birmingham. Soon after returning to Birmingham, Jack was ordained as Deacon at Hunter Street Baptist Church on November 18, 1964.

In 1970, Engel Mortgage Company merged with AmSouth to become AmSouth Mortgage Company. Jack attended the University of Miami in 1971, 1972 and 1973. Jack also completed the School of Mortgage Banking program at Northwestern University.

Jack retired from AmSouth as Vice President in 1990 after 29 years of service. After retiring, Jack continued to work part-time as a self employed inspector of new homes under construction.

Prior to his illness, Jack wrote the following words:

“The Lord blessed Mimi and me with two caring devoted daughters. They married two fine young Christian men. Now we have four of the greatest grandchildren you could find anywhere. More than anything, I believe our family has been our dearest, most satisfying and rewarding gift. Thank you Lord.”

AMEN

The celebration of Jack’s life will be at 2pm on Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at Southern Heritage Funeral Home in Pelham. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Arrangements under the direction of Southern Heritage Funeral Home, Pelham, AL.