Lawrence Jackson Fetner II

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lawrence Jackson “Jack” Fetner II, 83, of Carolina Beach, NC, formerly of Falls Church, VA. Jack passed away peacefully on May 10, 2024, surrounded by family after a brief illness at UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh, NC.

Jack is survived by his children: Catherine Dianne Fetner of Cary, NC; Lawrence Jackson Fetner III and his wife Deborah of High Point, NC; and Christopher Merrill Fetner of Los Angeles, CA. He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren: Lawrence Jackson Fetner IV of Raleigh, NC; Robert Clay Fetner of Lexington, NC; Avery Holley Fetner and Hudson Todd Fetner of Haymarket, VA; his sister, Merrill Fetner Smith of Asheboro, NC; sister-in-law, Judy Hendrix Huff of Jacksonville, NC; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Sylvia Hendrix Fetner, and his brother, James (Jim) Palmer Fetner.

Born in Charlotte, NC, to the late Jack Fetner and Elizabeth “Tib” Austin Fetner, Jack grew up in Asheboro, NC, and graduated from Asheboro High School. During his youth, he discovered a passion for leadership, athletics, and photography and, most importantly, met Sylvia, the love of his life.

Jack attended Wingate College and later the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a degree in Business Administration and was actively involved in student

leadership and organizations. After graduating, he served as a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy before transitioning to the Naval Reserves, retiring as a Commander.

Following his military service, Jack had a successful career at IBM, where he worked on significant projects, including opening IBM's Design Center and contributing to Air Traffic Control System upgrades. After retiring from IBM, he continued his work at Lockheed Martin for several years. Throughout his career, Jack was known as a leader who inspired and empowered those around him.

Jack had a love for history, trains, aviation, and travel and even became a pilot. He cherished time with family and friends and was known for his humor, warmth, and adventurous spirit.

As Jack often said, his was "a life filled with enjoyment, devotion, and adventure."

A graveside service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery on February 6, 2025, at 1:00 PM. If attending please plan arrive to Arlington National Cemetery by 12:15 PM. Arrangements are being handled by Murphy Falls Church Funeral Home, Falls Church, VA.