John Pearce "Jack" Wooton

John Pearce Wooton, age 92, of Durand passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Vibrant Life Senior Living. A funeral service to honor and celebrate will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 23, 2026 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, 501 N. Saginaw St., Durand, MI 48429. Rev. Dr. John Walworth will officiate. The family will receive friends from 4-8:00 PM on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at the funeral home as well as one hour prior to the service on Monday.

Known affectionately as Jack to all who knew him, was born on February 18, 1934 to Leslie and Eleanor (McCall) Wooton. He shared an unbreakable bond with his twin brother, Jerry, as they grew up in a home filled with love.

A proud graduate of Durand High School, Class of 1952, where he and his brother both played football, a love that he carried into adulthood. Jack's academic journey didn't end there. He carried his passion for the natural world into higher education at the Agricultural College of the State of Michigan, now known as Michigan State University. This love for nature was a legacy passed down from his family, who owned and operated the Wooton Floral Company for many years in Durand.

Jack's professional life was marked by a strong work ethic and a desire to contribute meaningfully to his community. After growing up and working for the family flower company, he ventured into the automotive industry, working for Fisher Body for a few years. His dedication and leadership skills soon led him to a supervisory position at Smeltzer Corporation, where he remained until his well-deserved retirement in 1984. Jack did not stay "retired" for too long, he spent time making small repairs to homes and even "flipping" a few houses.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jack's life was rich with interests that spoke to his character. He married the love of his life, Earlene Myrtle Clymer on March 5, 1955. They grew their family to include children, Sharna, Brian, Brad, and Corey. He relished the time spent with his wife Earlene, cultivating their exquisite flower gardens at home. His involvement in home and garden activities within the community became a testament to his commitment to beauty and growth in every sense. Jack's presence was a staple at the Stomping Grounds, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and conversation of his morning coffee crew.

Those who knew Jack will remember him as the epitome of generosity, optimism, and selflessness. He lived his life with an open heart, always ready to uplift others. Jack's enduring legacy is carried on by his loving children, Sharna (Tim) LeCureux, Brian (Lynne) Wooton, Brad (Kim) Wooton, and Corey (Cindy) Wooton. His grandchildren, Chris, Cassidy, Jeremy, Brianne, Brent, Bryce, Andra, Derek, Steven, Bobby, Kelsey, and Emily, along with his 23 great-grandchildren, will forever cherish the memories and lessons he imparted. A special niece, Denise, along with many friends, also survives him.

As we bid farewell to Jack, we are comforted by the thought of his joyful reunion with those who passed before him; his wife, Earlene; his beloved granddaughter, Cortney Didur; his parents, Leslie and Eleanor; and his twin brother, Jerry.

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to the staff and administration of Vibrant Life in Durand for their compassionate care, understanding, and guidance during their father's stay with them.

Memorials are suggested to Durand Union Station, a place of special meaning where Jack's grandfather began selling his flowers at the depot long before Wooton Floral Company had a building of it's own.

Online condolences, memories, and photos may be shared at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com.