Dr. Jack Cody

Jack Enoch Cody, 82, passed away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by the love and affection of his devoted family. Born on September 2, 1943, in Lexington, Kentucky, Jack was the eldest child of Ola Gardner Cody and Enoch Stafford Cody. Jack was the oldest of three siblings and is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janet Cody Matthews, and her husband, Bob Matthews; and his brother, Michael Glenn Cody.

A proud 1961 graduate of Danville High School, Jack continued his studies at Centre College, earning his degree in 1965. He pursued medicine at the University of Louisville Medical School, graduating in 1969. Jack completed his internship at Cook County Hospital in Chicago from 1969 to 1970 and went on to his surgical residency at Emery University from 1970 to 1974.

From 1974 to 1976, Jack served in the United States Army, where he attained the rank of Major and was stationed in Germany before his honorable discharge. He then returned with his family to Danville, Kentucky, where he had grown up, and dedicated his professional life to caring for others as a surgeon until his retirement in 2003.

Jack's interests were as wide ranging as his curiosity: skiing, golfing, hiking, cheering for Centre College basketball and University of Kentucky basketball, and-above all-making memories with his grandchildren. Everyone who crossed Jack's path knew his gift for storytelling. He could spin a yarn with wit and warmth, drawing in anyone willing to listen.

He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Kopp Cody; sons John Cody (Susan) and James Cody (Laura); and his cherished grandchildren Alex Cody Marx (Will), Jackson Cody, Joshua Cody, and Jacob Cody. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Becky Wilson; nephews Jason Matthews, Eric Matthews, and John Platt; and grand nephews Ryder Matthews and Brady Platt.

Quick with a smile, Jack radiated kindness and compassion. He was steadfastly devoted to his family, who surrounded him in his final days, showering him with the same affection he had shown them throughout his life.

The funeral service will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at First Christian Church with Rev. Colby Smith officiating. The visitation will be 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at First Christian Church prior to the service. Pallbearers will be John Cody, Jim Cody, Jackson Cody, Will Marx, Jason Matthews and Eric Matthews.

Jack's family is deeply grateful to all who supported him during his stay at The Willows in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, especially their dedicated staff. The countless friends, volunteers, healthcare providers, Hospice, and others who supported him provided so much comfort. Everyone's compassion and commitment to his care were a blessing.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Lewy Body Dementia Associ ation a nd the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research in Jack's memory.