John Norris Eddins Sr.

John Norris Eddins Sr., 94, of Austin, Texas, formerly of San Antonio and Corpus Christi, passed on to join his wife Jean, son Jim, brother Bill and sister Virginia in Heaven on Sunday, December 18th, having lived a long and full life.

Born in San Antonio on August 2nd, 1922, the son of William and Stella Eddins, Jack graduated from New Mexico Military Institute. Jack then enlisted in the U.S. Army where he fought in the Pacific Theater in World War II and earned two medals for honorable service. Upon returning home, Jack enrolled at the University of Texas as a business major and set to building his family by marrying Jean Saunders, who would be the love of his life for 62 years. Jack put his family first and often drove long hours as a traveling salesman to ensure that he was home to be with his three sons during their formative years. Second only to his family and his Methodist faith was his love of scouting with the Boy Scouts of America. Jack established the now 100-year-old Troop 3 at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church where he was a charter member. Jack continued to give his time and energy as Scoutmaster for well over 25 years in his mission to change young men’s lives for the better through love of the outdoors and duty to family, god and country. Jack always had something to add to the conversation. His outspoken demeanor ensured that everyone he met knew the impact that the scouting program could have on a young man. In addition to scouting, Jack enjoyed passing on his knowledge and love to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

During his career, Jack was a Freemason, a member of the Jaycees and a member and president of Toast Masters International. After retirement, he served as a bailiff for the judicial courts of Travis County.

Jack is survived by his son, John and wife Rickie, his son Jeff and wife Heidi, and his daughter in-law Emily, all of Austin; three grandchildren, Jennifer Vissers and husband Michael of Broomfield, Colorado, Jacqueline Eddins of Austin, and Michael Eddins of Austin; as well as three great grandchildren, Alexa, Stella and Norah Vissers.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 7th, 2016, at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church at 7050 Village Center Drive in Austin.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Northwest Hills United Methodist Church or Boy Scout Troop 3.