Thomas "Jack" Jackson Urquhart

Thomas J. “Jack” Urquhart passed away Sunday, June 10, 2012 in Stafford, TX. He is survived by his wife Shirley, his sons Jack (Jody) of Houston, Thomas (Linda) of Orem, UT, Stephen (Sara) of St. George, UT, his sister Margaret Griffel of Tappan, NJ, 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his son George “Ike” and his sister Nina Williford. His brother Milton Kimes of Houston, TX passed away Friday, June 15, 2012.

Jack was born November 18, 1924 to George and Daisy (McDaniel) Urquhart. A lifelong resident of Houston, Jack graduated from Lamar High School in 1940. He joined the United States Navy later that same year and served in the Navy until August, 1946, seeing combat in both the Pacific and Atlantic aboard the U.S.S. Richmond and U.S.S. Koiner, attaining the rank of Chief Quartermaster. He was a plank owner on the Koiner when it sailed from the Consolidated Ship Yard in Orange, Texas in 1943.

Jack was married December 24, 1943 to his first wife Viola Ruth Eismann. He married Shirley Langham on March 1, 1985. Jack was employed in the flooring industry in Houston, working for Gilson Carpets, Hillcrest Carpets, and World Carpets, and was the owner and president of Miller Bros Floors. He enjoyed associations he made with his work colleagues.

A sports fan and education advocate, Jack enjoyed supporting his sons’ activities in Spring Branch schools, college, and beyond. He loved spending time with his grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the staff at The Hampton at Meadows Place, Cathy Urquhart, Diane Williford, Gayle Bowlin, Eltis Simpson, and Dottie Phillips for their love, concern, and compassionate care in Jack’s final months. Jack was loved and will be sorely missed.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, June 21, 2012 at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the United Service Organizations (www.uso.org) or the Methodist Hospital Foundation, In support of Dr. Miguel Valderrabano, P.O. Box 4384, Houston, TX 77210-4384.