Jack Barden Durham

Jack Barden Durham, 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 29, 2024 at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield. Born in Johnston County on April 22, 1932, he was the son of the late Richard Jasper Durham and Laura Crocker Durham.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Louise Durham; and siblings, Harold Durham, Ralph Durham, Carol Durham, Wallace Durham, Grace Wall, and Jean Ann Hooks.

Jack is survived by his children, Richard Durham and wife, Tammy, and Bart Durham and wife, Sandy; grandchildren, Trey Durham and wife, Kelsey. Corey Durham, Hunter Durham, and Kayla Jones and husband, Wyatt; great-grandchildren, Jaxon Durham, Elliott Durham, and Halston Jones; and siblings, Bill Durham, Lena Gray Pope and husband, Bobby, and Dorothy Hinnant. Jack is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Jack grew up with a strong sense of duty and pride in his country. He served in the United States Army, where he devoted himself to protecting the freedoms we hold dear. A proud American through and through, Jack was an active member of the American Legion and lived a life marked by honor, integrity, and service.

After his military service, Jack returned to his roots, becoming a trusted and respected businessman in our community. As the owner of Durham’s Garage, he earned a reputation as a skilled mechanic who could fix anything that came through his doors. His clients knew they could rely on him for his knowledge, honesty, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His work was not just his profession; it was his passion, and his talents extended far beyond the shop.

A lifelong enthusiast of the outdoors, Jack was known for his love of hunting and fishing. Whether it was casting a line in a quiet lake or tracking through the woods, he found peace and joy in nature. His adventurous spirit and appreciation for the simple things in life left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

In addition to his business and hobbies, Jack was deeply committed to his community. He served as a volunteer fireman, served as Fire Chief for a few years, and eventually retired with over 20 years of service, where his leadership, wisdom, and dedication saved countless lives and protected homes. He took immense pride in his role, always putting the well-being of others first. Jack also served as a Scout Master during his young adult life and stayed connected to scouting with Bart and Richard, who are both Eagle Scouts.

Jack was also a proud and loving family man. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and his legacy lives on through his family. His kindness, generosity, and selflessness touched all who were fortunate enough to know him.

He leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, and a love for his country and community. Jack Durham will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 2, 2024 from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. at Kenly Funeral Service. A service to celebrate Jack’s life will be held in the chapel of Kenly Funeral Service at 2:00 p.m. Interment will be held at Kenly Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be sent to the SECU Hospice House 426 Hospital Rd, Smithfield, NC 27577 in memory of Jack.

Services have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service. To leave an online condolence please visit www.kenlyfs.com.