Jack Jester

1936 - 2023

Jack Jester passed away after a long battle with illness, surrounded by his loving family, on March 23, 2023. He was 86 years old.

Jack was born in Rock Hall, MD on May 19, 1936, the son of Francis and Elizabeth "Ebbi" Jester. He grew up in Rock Hall and after graduating from high school, joined the U.S Army. He served for two years before joining the U.S. Air Force, where he eventually became a Master Sergeant, was assigned to Air Force One, and served for over 21 years.

After the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, he was recruited to the Secret Service as a special protective agent. One of the assignments he was most proud of was the Presidential Goodwill Tour that traveled to nearly 30 cities in 45 days. On this tour he was assigned as a Special Protective Agent for President Nixon, Apollo 11 astronauts, and their wives. He completed every leg of the tour. Although he told many stories, another one of his favorites was the trip he took with First Lady Barbara Bush (Bush Sr.'s wife) to Rome to tour the Vatican which later resulted in his being chosen to provide protection for Pope John Paul's visit to the United States.

After retiring from his military career, Jack got his merchant marine license and captained a charter boat named the Silver Dolphin. He was a past 2nd vice commander of the Sgt. Preston Ashley American Legion Post #228, as well as a past Rock Hall Chief of Police. He loved boating and fishing, was a collector of hand-carved decoys, and adored his beloved golden retrievers. He was a very loved man, especially by his grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Barbara Jester, his siblings: Fritz Jester, Sue Jester, and Herbie Jester, as well as his stepson, Shane Elburn.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Jester, stepson, Matthew Hinefelt (Lindsey), stepdaughter, Candy Edwards Roach (Tim), and his fourteen grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held on June 24th, 2023 at 3:00PM at the Rock Hall American Post 228.