John D. “Jack” Huffman left us during the early morning hours of December 9, 2017. He was preceded by his father, James D. “Doug” Huffman; mother, Beulah; sister, Mary Jane; his wife of 50 years, Ethel; and daughter, Lisa. He is survived by his daughter Lynnette and her husband Paul Armentrout, his grandchildren Monty Armentrout and his wife Stephanie, Elizabeth Caison and her husband Owen, and Gary Armentrout, as well as his great grandchildren Holly and Jameson Armentrout.

Jack was born on February 25, 1931 in Memphis, TN. He and his family moved around to different parts of the south, eventually settling back in Memphis to be near his extended family of grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. He attended Columbia Military Academy in Columbia, TN, and then attended Alabama Polytechnic Institute. His studies were interrupted by the Korean Conflict where he served in the Air Force as a radio operator aboard various aircraft. Afterward he continued his studies and graduated from then, Auburn University with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and Administration. He worked in radio and television broadcasting in various markets, including Atlanta, GA, and Dothan, AL. He then decided to pursue his degree field and went on to work in the Space Industry in Tullahoma, TN, working on such projects as the L.E.M. for NASA. Afterward he transitioned into Quality Control work in manufacturing and eventually into the head of H.R. for several manufacturing companies.

His passion in life was wood working.  Most evenings and weekends he could be found in his garage surrounded by his tools and various projects. He was a master furniture refinisher and maker. His work in refinishing led him to a love of stained glass where he created and restored many beautiful pieces. His passion for restoration led him to a love of collecting antiques, a passion he happily passed down to his daughter and son in law. In his last few years this was their favorite pastime. He was an avid golfer in his younger years and a formidable opponent on a chess board. He happily passed his love of chess on to his grandsons teaching them over many a Christmas holiday.

Jack will be missed by many friends and family members in both Fort Walton Beach, FL, and Fort Smith, AR. His final resting place on this earth will be with his beloved wife in the National Cemetery in Fort Smith, AR.  Expressions of love and sympathy can be viewed or submitted online at www.mclaughlinmortuary.com

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