Funeral services for Mr. Lewis Earl “Jack” Courtney were conducted at noon Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, at Saulters Moore Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Ken Roberts officiating.  Interment followed in the Bassfield Cemetery.  Mr. Courtney, age 86, entered into the eternal rest of his Lord late Monday evening, Nov. 20, 2023, at the Brookdale Assisting Living Center in Clinton, where he had resided the last few years.  Saulters Moore Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.

The family received friends Friday morning beginning at 10 a.m. until the hour of service at noon at Saulters Moore Funeral Home.

Mr. Courtney was carried to his final rest by Brian Courtney, Scott Courtney, Jeff Hudson, Phil Hudson, Tom Sims and Demetre Apostolidis.

Lewis Earl “Jack” Courtney was born on Nov. 3, 1937, in Bassfield to Vardaman and Elma Bullock Courtney.

A proud graduate of Bassfield High School, Jack played football for the Yellowjackets and was an exceptional athlete.  Upon completing his education, Jack embarked on a lifelong career that took him to Jackson.

He joined Cook Construction as a foreman, where he dedicated over two decades of hard work and expertise. Jack’s unwavering commitment led him to further success when he later became a foreman for Superior Asphalt until his well-deserved retirement.

In 1978, Jack and his beloved wife, Edna, made their home in Clinton, relishing every moment of their golden years together.

Jack’s passion for craftsmanship was unparalleled. A self-taught genius with an exceptional skill set, there was no challenge too great for him to conquer. Whether it was fixing automobiles with precision or showcasing his carpentry finesse through remarkable creations, Jack possessed an innate talent that amazed all those fortunate enough to witness it.

Amongst his countless masterpieces were beautifully handcrafted metal grills that he generously shared with family members and friends.

Family remained the cornerstone of Jack’s life. He held an unwavering love for his wife and children that knew no bounds. The laughter-filled camping trips to the Ross Barnett Reservoir became cherished traditions where bonds grew stronger and memories became everlasting treasures. These joyous occasions were a testament to the love and warmth they shared as a family.

While pursuing his passions with immense dedication, Jack also found pleasure in various hobbies.

In his younger years, he enjoyed deep-sea fishing adventures.

Additionally, Jack also enjoyed deer hunting with his sons and also had a green thumb and derived great satisfaction from gardening.

With devotion and care, he cultivated gardens that flourished, earning him the endearing nickname “tomato king” among friends and family.

Jack Courtney will be remembered as a kind-hearted soul with an unyielding spirit. His legacy of love, devotion, and craftsmanship will live on in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.

He leaves behind a grateful family who will forever cherish his memory.

In addition to his parents, Jack is preceded in death by his wife, Edna, of 64 years; his daughter, Renee Courtney Goodin; his daughter-in-law, Rosanne Courtney, a sister, Betty Hudson and a brother, David Courtney.

His memory will forever be cherished by his daughters, Dena Courtney Booth of Clinton, Kay Courtney (Tom) Sims of Powder Springs, Georgia; his sons, Alton Courtney of Raymond, Tim (Kelley) Courtney of Terry; and his sister, Linda Pennington of Prentiss.  The legacy of their Papaw will also live on through his grandchildren, Kimberly Apostolidis, Courtney Sims, Meredith Chelstrom, Anna Sims, Russell Courtney, Josh Courtney, Hannah Welch, Dolan Courtney and his great-grandchildren, Alexander Apostolidis, Ty Courtney, Elli Courtney, Jaxton Campbell, Banks Campbell and Myles Chelstrom.

Online condolences and a guest registry are available at www.saultersmoorefuneralhome.com