Dr. John "Jack" Hyatt

1939 - 2024

Dr. John "Jack" Hyatt

March 12, 1939 - September 24, 2024

Dr. John "Jack" Hyatt, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected periodontist, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024, at the age of 85. Born March 12, 1939, in Alliance, OH, Jack lived a life of service, leadership, and love for his profession, community, and family.

After graduating with his Bachelor's degree in Zoology from Baldwin-Wallace University, Jack completed dental training at The Ohio State University, culminating with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Jack served as a dentist in the United States Air Force. Following his release as a prisoner of war in Russia during the Vietnam Conflict, he continued his military service and then returned to The Ohio State University for a periodontal residency, simultaneously earning a Master of Science in Anatomy.

In 1971, Jack and his wife, Beverly, moved to Hickory, NC, where he established his periodontal practice, serving the community for over fifty years. His commitment to the field of periodontics and special interest in temporomandibular disorders made him a trusted professional for countless patients and colleagues through the years. Jack was a proud member of several professional organizations, including the Catawba County Dental Society, the Western Piedmont Dental Society (serving as president and past president), the North Carolina Society of Periodontics, the American Academy of Implantology, and the Seattle Study Club.

Jack's spirit of service, evident in his professional and military commitments, was mirrored in his community leadership. He was a long-standing, active member of the Lake Hickory Rotary Club, where he served as president and was honored as Rotarian of the Year. Jack was a dedicated member of the Catawba Riverkeepers and always looked forward to attending Hickory Sportsman's Club events. A man of faith, Jack was an elder and youth group advisor at First Presbyterian Church of Hickory. Later, Jack served as a founding member of Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in Hickory, where his vision and generosity will long be remembered.

Jack and Beverly shared a love for dogs. That passion led them on trips to dog shows around the country, creating meaningful memories and friendships. Jack combined his fondness for Newfoundlands with his inclination to lead, and was a founding member of the Southeastern Newfoundland Club, serving as president for four years. Locally, Jack was also a founding member of the Greater Hickory Kennel Club. He and Beverly cherished hosting the Kennel Club's annual holiday party at their home.

Jack enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. From holiday tailgates in the driveway with his children, to the family cottage in Ontario, to 40 years of July 4th holidays at his favorite spot in the world, Kiawah Island, Jack looked forward to being with loved ones. Kiawah was one of the places Jack indulged in his treasured pastime, reading. Jack was a voracious reader of varied genres from mysteries to non-fiction, and amassed a collection that rivals many bookstores.

Jack often said that he wanted to work until he passed away and that he wanted to spend his final days in Hickory at the house that he built and loved. Jack's wishes were realized, offering comfort to the family that the end of his life was as he wished, serving others through his work and reaching his final rest at home.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, John and Martha Hyatt; and his loving wife of 60 years, Beverly Rignall Hyatt. He is survived by his two sisters, Rosemary Hyatt Feiock and Patricia Hyatt Beffel; and his and Beverly's four children, John S. Hyatt and husband, Kevin Eakes, Jennifer Hyatt, Kari Hyatt Miller and husband, Michael Miller, and Amy Alexander and husband, Tim Alexander. Known affectionately as "Grumples" to his grandchildren, Jack is survived by his four granddaughters, Madison Hyatt Alexander, Harlowe James Miller, Grace Hyatt Alexander, and Pluma Rose Hyatt-Eakes.

A celebration of Jack's life will be held on November 9, 2024, at 2 p.m., at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3710 N. Center St., Hickory, NC 28601. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church in Jack's memory.

Bass-Smith Funeral Home in Hickory is honored to serve the Hyatt family during this time.