John C. "Jack" Fox, Sr.

John C. “Jack” Fox, 85, of New Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, at Park Village Southside.

Born on July 28, 1940, to Charles L. and Jane E. (Holmes) Fox, Jack was a longtime resident of Baltzley Valley Road in New Philadelphia. He was a proud graduate of Roswell High School, Class of 1956. From a young age, Jack was involved in scouting—his first Cub Scout project was making a crop stick, and he later achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

Jack served honorably in the United States Air Force, progressing in rank from Airman First Class to Airman Second Class while stationed in Korea and then Airman Third Class at Dover Delaware Air Force Base.

On September 16, 1961, Jack married the love of his life, Carol Ann Sanders. They celebrated 55 years of marriage before her passing on April 7, 2016. Together, they enjoyed bird-hiking, family gatherings, and countless adventures. Jack especially cherished vacations and family trips, including visits to California, the New York World's Fair, and Nashville, Tennessee.

He retired from Greer Steel after a long and dedicated career. A faithful and active member of First United Methodist Church in New Philadelphia, Jack served in numerous roles, including head usher. His service extended into the community through his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America as an Assistant Scout Master, and as a longtime member and leader of several local organizations.

He was a passionate outdoorsman and nature lover, often found hiking the trails of the Norma Johnson Center and The Wilderness Center, camera in hand, photographing wildlife. He also enjoyed hunting as a peaceful and reflective pastime.

Jack was a true “foodie” who delighted in trying new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen. He had an impressive collection of hot sauces and cookbooks and was especially known for making soups that he enjoyed sharing with family and friends.

Notably, Jack was a Tuscarawas County and Roswell historian. He greatly enjoyed working alongside the late Fred Miller and current curator, Kim Jurkovic at the Tuscarawas County Historical Society where he served as an archive specialist. Jack was a trustee and chair of the 1976 Bicentennial Committee for the Tuscarawas County Historical Society, president of the Tuscarawas County Stamp Club, and past president and show chairman of the Tuscarawas County Coin Club. He was also a lifetime member of the Tusco Rifle Club, where he served as treasurer for 15 years.

An avid photographer, Jack was rarely seen without a camera in hand. He meticulously printed and organized his photos into albums, sharing memories with friends and family. He had a deep appreciation for art, often attending local shows, and was a passionate collector of hats, pocket knives, matchbooks, beer cans, stamps, and coins.

Jack especially loved time spent at the family-owned Memory Park Campground, where he participated in workdays, family picnics, and special events.

His legacy of service, love of family, and enthusiasm for life will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his son, John C. (Lisa) Fox, Jr. of Tallmadge; two grandsons, Sean M. and Christopher J. Fox; two sisters-in-law, Karen (Bill) Murphy and Bonnie Fox; nephews, Mark (Tammy) Murphy of Bolivar, Michael (Tracie) Murphy of New Philadelphia, Justin (Heather) Fox and Nathan Fox; a niece, Heather Fox and several great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in passing by his parents; and wife, Carol; his son, Steven M. Fox; and his brother, Bill Fox.

A service for close friends and family will be led by Pastor Brian Flood in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Thursday, October 16, 2025, beginning at 11 a.m. Inurnment of Jack’s cremated remains will immediately follow the memorial service in East Avenue Cemetery where the New Philadelphia VFW #1445 will render military honors.

Memorial contributions in Jack’s memory may be directed to the Tuscarawas County Historical Society.