Jack Lynn Rife

Jack Lynn Rife Jack Lynn Rife, 68, born in Graham, Texas, on October 9, 1941, died November 11, 2009, at home, almost 8 years after a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis. His gallantry and spirit were inspiring. As a boy, Jack milked cows, helped on his dad's wrecking yard, and spent summers on farms in Michigan. A high school football and track star, he worked in West Texas oil fields to finance college. At UT, he did graduate studies in American Literature. Later, he studied Latin, Greek and Hebrew. He renovated houses, taught school in California, and wrote a novel. Jack was modest, discerning, eloquent, gracious, much loved and respected, whose unique humor brightened the lives of all. He leaves his beloved wife of 45 years, Susan Rife; son, Yitzak Rife (Sonia); daughters, Zoe Roach (Sean); Lexi Carney (Mike); Justine Rife (Ben); 4 grandchildren; his mother, Cleatis Rife; sister, Joyce, and niece Jackie. A memorial will be held on the 21st at his home. We carry him forever in our hearts.