EDDINS, SR., John Norris
John Norris Eddins Sr., 94, of Austin, Texas, formerly of San Antonio and Corpus Christi, passed on to join his wife Jean, son Jim, brother Bill and sister Virginia in Heaven on Sunday, December 18, 2016, having lived a long and full life.
Born in San Antonio on August 2, 1922, the son of William and Stella Eddins, Jack graduated from New Mexico Military Institute. Jack then enlisted in the U.S. Army where he fought in the Pacific Theater in World War II and earned two medals for honorable service. Upon returning home, Jack enrolled at the University of Texas as a business major and set to building his family by marrying Jean Saunders, who would be the love of his life for 62 years. Jack put his family first and often drove long hours as a traveling salesman to ensure that he was home to be with his three sons during their formative years. Second only to his family and his Methodist faith was his love of scouting with the Boy Scouts of America. Jack established the now 100-year-old Troop 3 at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church where he was a charter member. Jack continued to give his time and energy as Scoutmaster for well over 25 years in his mission to change young men's lives for the better through love of the outdoors and duty to family, God and country. Jack always had something to add to the conversation. His outspoken demeanor ensured that everyone he met knew the impact that the scouting program could have on a young man. In addition to scouting, Jack enjoyed passing on his knowledge and love to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
During his career, Jack was a Freemason, a member of the Jaycees and a member and president of Toast Masters International. After retirement, he served as a bailiff for the judicial courts of Travis County.
Jack is survived by his son, John and wife Rickie, his son Jeff and wife Heidi, and his daughter in-law Emily, all of Austin; three grandchildren, Jennifer Vissers and husband Michael of Broomfield, Colorado, Jacqueline Eddins of Austin, and Michael Eddins of Austin; as well as three great-grandchildren, Alexa, Stella and Norah Vissers.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 7, 2016, at Northwest Hills United Methodist Church at 7050 Village Center Drive in Austin, Texas.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Northwest Hills United Methodist Church or Boy Scout Troop 3.
To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit our website at
www.CookWaldenCapitalParks.com

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Published by Austin American-Statesman from Jan. 1 to Jan. 2, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for John EDDINS

Sponsored by Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home & Cemetery.

7 Entries

Dana Siegmund

February 21, 2023

Jack was the best bailiff ever. I loved working with him and loved listening to all his stories.

Rich Tharp

January 4, 2017

Jack Eddins touched the lives of hundreds of Austin boys in his many decades as a Scout leader, and he continued to give back to Scouting and to his church at an age when most folks would stick to their rocking chair. Troop 3 just celebrated its 100th anniversary. Contrary to conventional wisdom, Mr. Jack was NOT a founding member back in 1915. But, it wouldn't have surprised me if he was. He cast that long a shadow on Scouting and the troop. He rescued it from downtown when few boys lived there, and brought it to NW Austin, which was thriving.

Jack seemed ancient as Troop 3 Scoutmaster at Lost Pines Summer Camp more than 40 years ago. I was in another troop, but watched him all week, as he got stuff done with a positive, relentless attitude. He playfully teased his son (who was on crutches from an injury), calling him "Tin Legs."

Imagine my surprise to find him still serving as a mentor, booster and role model 40 years later to Scouts and Scouters at the church he founded, where my son was a Cub.

Thanks for your example, Mr. Jack. It'll take a lot of folks to pick up your slack. Fortunately, you taught a lot of boys how. They're now good men.

Shawn Harrington

January 3, 2017

Our condolences for your loss. We truly appreciate the legacy Mr. Eddins left as a founder and leader of Troop 3, Austin.

Shawn Harrington
Assistant Scoutmaster, Troop 3, Austin

Oliver Harrington
Scout, Troop 3, Austin

Jeff Askew

January 3, 2017

My sincerest condolences on your loss. I knew Jack as "Old Man" from my days with troop 3 and I have to say that he was one of my best role models growing up. He had a profound positive impact on my life and I will always be grateful for my time with him.

Craig Shempert

January 2, 2017

For me, it was a privilege to know Jack. It was an honor to learn from him. A great man who walked with God and did great things. He is an example for us all.

Steve Landsman

December 29, 2016

Your dad and my friend Jack will be missed. I had breakfast with Jack almost every Saturday morning for the last 10 years. I enjoyed his life time of stories & accomplishments. He will always be remembered & honored.

James M. White

December 20, 2016

So Sorry to hear about Jeffs Father. He was quite a Man. I really enjoyed his company. We will miss Him. He did a lot in his Lifetime.

Jack and Your Family will be in our Prayers and Thoughts.

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