Philip John Markham

Jack Markham lived an amazing and full life defined by resilience, faith, service, and a deep love of the outdoors and community. Jack was born in 1938 and, around the age of three, was surrendered to a Catholic orphanage by his biological family. Little is known about his early beginnings. He was adopted twice and returned before his life changed forever. Devout Catholics George and Anna Markham, who were seeking a sister for their biological son, Francis, visited the orphanage and left with Jack. He proudly took their name and even assumed George's birthday-July 4, 1938-a fitting date for a man whose life reflected independence, determination, and quiet patriotism.

Jack grew up in Hampton, Virginia, where he learned the value of hard work. After graduating high school, he worked at Newport News Shipyard, saving diligently so he could attend college. He went on to Virginia Tech, then known as Virginia Polytechnic Institute, where he met the love of his life, Shirley. While finishing their college degrees, Jack and Shirley welcomed two children.

After earning his Master's Degree in Forestry, Jack moved his family to Chesapeake, Virginia, where they welcomed their third child. He began his professional career with the Thrasher family at Greenbrier Farms, working there from 1967 to 1976. In 1976, his expertise in landscaping and land management led him to a new chapter with the U.S. Army at Fort Monroe. Jack took great joy in discovering the history and diversity of trees on base and traveled to Puerto Rico, Guantánamo Bay, and other military installations to manage and renew land leases.

It was at Fort Monroe that Jack's well-known tradition of decorating officers' homes during the Christmas season began. In 1985, he continued his federal service with the U.S. Navy, carrying that holiday tradition with him. During these years, Jack discovered a particular pine tree whose cone, when carefully cut, formed a beautiful rose. He delighted in crafting these pine cone flowers and gifting them to friends for many years-a simple but lasting expression of his creativity and generosity.

Jack loved the outdoors and lived life actively. He was a member of a Confederate Troops Reenactment Group, participating in years of skirmishes and camping trips. He coached Jonathan and Kurtis in baseball and Shirley in softball. An avid swimmer, Jack and his family were members of the Great Bridge Swim and Racquet Club.

After their children-Kimberly, Jonathan, and Kurtis-graduated from high school, Jack and Shirley dove headfirst into the horse world. Together they made countless memories riding and caring for their horses: a thoroughbred Tommy's Dancer, a quarter horse GQ (Gentleman's Quarterly), a half-linger named Pye, and a rescue named Frisco. They were members of SEAT (Southeastern Association of Trailriders) and volunteered at Triple R Ranch, supporting the therapeutic riding program for individuals with disabilities. When their granddaughter Kendal was born and old enough to ride, Jack and Shirley participated in local Pony Club events and proudly walked horse-side in the annual Great Bridge Christmas Parade.

A devoted Catholic, Jack was a member of the Knights of Columbus and both Prince of Peace and St. Stephen Martyr churches. He loved life, never met an enemy, and would pick up a shovel at a moment's notice. He will always be remembered for his willingness to help friends and neighbors alike. Jack was truly loved by all who knew him.

Jack is preceded in death by his wife Shiley and son Jonathan. He leaves behind by his children, Kimberly and Kurtis Markham; his mother-in-law, Bessie Shultz; his granddaughter, Kendal Malsbury, and her husband Drew; and his great-granddaughter, Tatum.

There will be a visitation on Monday, January 26, 2026 from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Oman Funeral Home and Crematory located at 653 Cedar Rd., Chesapeake, VA 23322. A memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 11:00 am at St. Stephen Martyr Catholic Church located at 1544 Battlefield Blvd. S., Chesapeake, VA 23322.

Jack's life was one of faith, service, kindness, and joy-and his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched.