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Jack Holcomb Obituary

Holcomb, Jack Norman, 82, died a beautiful, peaceful death on August 13, 2010. He was born August 4, 1928 at King's Daughter Hospital in Ashland, KY, to George Everett Holcomb and Marie (Cremeans) Holcomb-McGarey. He attended Millersburg Military Institute in Millersburg, KY, and subsequently graduated from Portsmouth High School in Ohio. He served with the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Air Force and moved to California in 1949, where he lived for 10 years. He then resided in Fort Lauderdale and founded Audio Intelligence Devices and National Intelligence Academy. In an effort to combat crime, "AID" and "NIA" served the law enforcement community for over thirty years and became the largest manufacturer of intelligence equipment in the world. Over the years he received numerous honors including the "American Star Award" presented by the U.S. Marshal's Association. In 1986, he and his wife purchased the private island of "Leaf Cay" in the Central Exumas, where they became residents and spent over twenty years helping the loca community and enjoying the pristine waters of the Bahamas. In 2002, Jack built "Sunset Ranch" in his native state of Kentucky where he could enjoy the beautiful landscape and return to the area of his birth. Jack Holcomb was a true patriot, a member of the Ft. Lauderdale Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Founders and Patriots of America and a life member of the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS). He was an outstanding businessman, boss, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who sought to instill truth and honor in everyone he met. Jack had mant friends in all walks of life and will truly be missed. He is survived by his wife, Mary April "Dede;" son, Walter-John of Fort Lauderdale; grandson, John Christopher; granddaughter, Michelle Marie; great-granddaughter, Nicole Michelle; cousin Carolyn Holcomb-Myers of Atlanta, GA; mother-in-law, Marie J. Dworsky; brothers-in-law, Paul David and Robert Dworsky of Pittsburgh, PA and Daniel Robert Dworsky of Greensboro, MD. Private memorial services were held and Jack's body was laid to rest in the Holcomb Private Mausoleum in Historic Evergreen Cemetery, Ft. Lauderdale. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that any donations be sent in Jack's honor to Father Beiting Appalachian Mission Center, P.O. Box 885, Louisa, KY 41230. www.fatherbeiting.org. Services arranged by Baird-Case Jordan-Fannin Funeral Home, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Sun-Sentinel on Aug. 17, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Jack Holcomb

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Bob Duman

August 12, 2025

Jack was my best friend and confidant. There are too many memories to write here. He was a great mentor to me in law enforcement as well as life. I still miss him immensely and will till we met again.

Sherry Bannasch-Stevens

February 26, 2022

DeDe, I send you my condolences. I worked for Dieter Husgen in the Crystal Lab at A. I. D. and last night after searching, found he passed away. I saw your kind post, so I looked you up and find Jack has passed. Blessings being sent your way. I really enjoyed that place of work and all the people there.

Syd Griffith (Australia)

August 11, 2021

Jack was a forming influence in many of my mid career choices. He was fun, smart, a great business man and Dede his constant support. Locked it right now but when we´re free we´re headed to Florida. Two grandkids there that are 2.5 years older than when we last saw them. Memories of times gone bye are so special!

Scott McEver

August 19, 2020

I think of you often Jack and will always be grateful to our Lord/God that I got to know you. I learned so much from you. You are missed here. I pray for your family and DeDe and hope they are all well

Scott McEver

August 12, 2011

Almost a year since you left us here. I think about you and all we have learned from you. I pray that Dede and all of your family are doing well Jack.

Ken Moskowitz

May 20, 2011

I just found out about this now. I've lost touch with the Holcombs as I had been working overseas as a pilot. For a short time I used to fly you to Leaf Cay and knew Jack as a true professional. My sincere condolences to the family.

March 3, 2011

Jack and Dede were close friends from a long distance and a long time ago. So Dede we are thinking of you - only just found out - if you see thins please email me. Syd Griffith. Sydney, Australia [email protected]

Della Hinsey

October 4, 2010

I am saddened by the passing of Mr. Holcolmb,"a giant of a man."The world has lost a wonderful human being and heaven welcomes a "gem."sincerest sympathy is extended to Dede and the entire family.

Larry Chapman

September 10, 2010

I first met Jack in 1984 or so when I was a new member of the US Secret Service. Jack was very willing to share his knowledge and always had time to help. All Best Wishes to the family.

Bruce Wanner

September 9, 2010

Jack touched many lives with his and will be well remembered. I know he left me with many good memories. Our condolences to the family and Godspeed, Jack.

Kevin Harrison

September 9, 2010

Jack made a major positive effect on my life, I was blessed to have known him. He will not be forgotten!
My condolences to Jacks family.

Jacqui Gray

September 9, 2010

He touched my life in such a wonderful way. God please take him in your loving arms because he has helped so many people. I owe him everything that I have become since working with him back in the 80s & 90s. Jack a lot of people loved you

Scott McEver

September 8, 2010

Jack
Some how, some way all the people that knew you, have been touched by you. A man of your word, of deeds, action, commitment and a vision God bestows only in a few humans. Every day with you was a learning experience for me, in- fact it was for everyone including the young, old, rich, poor and even know- it -alls. Your work here saved lives and helped to protect young men and women who put it all on the line to serve their cities, counties, states and the country. I was one of them and unlike most, I got the chance to know you and for that, I will forever be grateful. Our hearts and prayers are with Dede and all your family. Good-bye Jack, we will miss you until we meet again.
Scott

LOUIE TABEEK

September 8, 2010

Jack Holcomb was a leader in the covert electronics marketplace. He knew the business end, was a visionary and surrounded himself with those in the know. Most importantly he listened to our needs and responded with a reputable product and service at a price we could bear. He, Dede and I did so many projects together and designed items that are still being utilized today very effectively. He was also a good friend and confidante and will be missed by those who knew him. Condolences are extended to the Holcomb family.

Laurie & Ashley Thurmond

September 8, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We pray your memories bring you comfort and the love of friends and families help you through your grief. We will cherish the memories forever.

Donna Bond

August 30, 2010

A wonderful friend has been selected by the master to take the wonderful journey down the bright and beautiful road to home. As we miss him and become lonely and saddened at heart, just remember the love and good deeds Jack shared with his friends. Jack is like the circled flight of the great Eagle his soul has been set free. As we miss him and let him go may God be with DeDe and family.

Bob Duman

August 21, 2010

Jack was my BEST friend and confidant. I will miss him more than words can express. His contributions to the Law Enforcement community and Military were far greater than anyone could imagine. My deepest sympathies to Dede and the entire Holcomb family on their monumental loss. Rest in Peace dear friend, until we meet again.

Tom Calnan

August 19, 2010

At this years NATIA conference in Texas Jacks name came up in a few conversations with some officers who new Jack. We talked about how his creation of AID & NIA had made Law Enforcement officers work safer.

I'm sorry that I did not get the chance to speak with him after the conference. Sharon and I enjoyed working for Jack over the years.

Sharon and I send our deepest condolences to Dede and family.

Tom & Sharon Calnan

Carol Spooner

August 19, 2010

My family and I were very sad to hear of Jack's death. He truly was a very fair, kind and generous man. I enjoyed working for Jack and his wife Dede and will always remember them for the kindness they showed me. May God bless you and your family.

Carmen Santiago

August 19, 2010

I am very sorry to hear about his death. I miss him and the AID Family. Mr. Holcomb was a wonderful person. I really enjoyed working for him.

Sandy Knight

August 18, 2010

My deepest condolences are with you in your time of grieve. I truely miss the first "AID" family and still dream of the place.

Paul Spagna

August 17, 2010

My family is very sorry to learn of Jack's death. We have many have fond memories of him, and our relationship with your family. May God Bless you and your family.

Bill Storment

August 17, 2010

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

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