Jack B. Jarvis

Jack B. Jarvis, age 80, of Muncie, Indiana, passed away on December 30th at 4:16 pm at Ball Memorial Hospital after fighting a courageous battle against a massive hemorrhagic stroke, surrounded by family and loved ones. Jack was born in Cumberland County, Kentucky to the late Joe H. Jarvis and Anna V. Burns on September 18, 1944.

He was a Veteran of the US Army, and proudly served his country in Vietnam as a Sergeant in the 151st Regiment; Company D (Ranger), "Delta Company," was the only National Guard infantry unit to serve in Vietnam intact, and earned more medals in 1969 than any other Army infantry company during a 1-year period, and has been credited with reintegrating National Guard units with the United States Army after they were intentionally separated during the Vietnam War. The company was eventually assigned to II Field Force Vietnam with the mission of conducting long range patrols in War Zone D, in the III Corps Tactical Zone. After the company's arrival, the 199th Infantry Brigade (Light) oversaw its initial administration and support. On the 10th of February 2020, Company D (Ranger) 151 Infantry was honored by the Indiana House of Representatives for being the most Decorated Combat Unit in the Vietnam War. Jack and his team conducted approximately 30 missions, and his team and he were awarded numerous medals. Jack also worked hard his entire life to provide for his loved ones, and there's nothing he wouldn't do for them, making sure they had a wonderful and promising life when returning home from the War.

Jack Retired from Ingersoll Steel Company of New Castle, IN and was a member of the Union. He enjoyed being a SteelWorker, and the hard work and brotherhood it brought to his life. He also enjoyed spending time with his many friends, veterans, family members and previous co-workers throughout his life. He was an avid gardener and spent many hours in his greenhouse and garden just like his father before him. He had his own special (Jack Seeds) such as Jack’s Big Watermelons. He took great pride in his home and land, and dedicated his life to protecting it. He always lived with pride and dignity. Jack understood that each day was a gift and embraced the lessons he had learned along the way, to make sure his tomorrow was always better than his last.

Survivors include his son, Jason Christopher and his wife (Sambra Dawn) Jarvis of Medina, OH; his grandchildren: Alexa Kyndall, Zyler Austin, Unitie Madison Hope, and Jaisanna Caitlin.

Jack is also survived by his very special, and devoted friend, Mary Ann Jones of Muncie. Jack loved and was very thankful for each day that he had with her and her family. They spent years together, the bond between these two friends was stronger and tougher than diamonds — and it glittered just as bright. Not only did these two conquer life through thick and thin, but the memories they created will bring a smile to your face that will last a lifetime. They cherished the friendships through these heartwarming moments they had with music festivals, dinners and time with their children exploring life.

Survivors include brothers and sisters: Evelynn Lowe of Richmond, Patty Neal of New Castle, Betty Boram of New Castle, Bobby (Kay) Jarvis of New Castle, Donna Hamilton of Burkesville, Kentucky; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joe H. Jarvis and Anna V. Burns; his wife, Kathleen Jarvis; his brother Curtis Jarvis.

“Rangers, Lead the Way!”

Never shall I fail my comrades. I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task whatever it may be, one hundred percent and then some. Gallantly will I show the world that I am a specially selected and well-trained Soldier.

Let us never forget Son, Brother, Father, Friend and United States Ranger… Jack B. Jarvis