John Robert Cusick Sr.

John (Jack) R. Cusick went to be home with the Lord; Jack peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 2, 2021, All Souls’ Day, at the age of 91. Jack was born in Morris, Illinois on June 24, 1930. The son of Thomas and Zita Cusick; he was the youngest of 10 children.

Jack’s formative years were in Joliet, Illinois. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1952. Jack served in the Army as an Artillery-Airborne officer as a Battery Commander in Korea in 1953-1954. Upon discharge from the Army as First Lieutenant, he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley A. Waesco. They had five boys and were happily married for 41 years until Shirley’s death.

After his military service, Jack worked as the store manager for the Kroger Grocery chain before joining the Prudential Insurance Company as a sales agent. Over his 30 years at Prudential, he rose through the ranks where he ultimately retired in 1991 as Vice President of Sales in Jacksonville, FL. Jack was active in the Insurance Industry. He achieved CLU and CHFC degrees. He served as president of the District Agents Association and the president of the General Managers Association.

After retiring from Prudential, he volunteered for the States Attorney’s Office as a hearing officer and mediator in the Juvenile Division for 25 years. In 1998, Jack married Mary West uniting two families, spending all holidays, birthdays, and summer vacations together.

As a Cradle Catholic, Jack was an active member of San Jose Catholic Church for over 45 years; serving on the Parish Council as President, several years as a eucharist min-ister, and lifelong member of Knights of Columbus. Jack was a member of the San Jose Country Club, serving on the Board of Directors and the Board of the San Jose Yacht Club. He was an avid reader, golfer and loved to care for his own yard up till he was 90.

Jack was predeceased by his wife, Shirley, 3 sons David, Michael, John, and all 9 siblings. Jack is survived by his loving wife Mary, children Tom Cusick (Cindy), Jim Cusick (Kim), Patrice Jenkins (Richard), Valencia West, and foster daughter, Elizabeth Stec (Frank). Eight grandchildren: Aislynn Combs (Tim), Tommy Cusick (Catarina), Katie Fowler (Jamie), Elizabeth Jenkins, Mick Cusick, MaxCusick, Jake Cusick, Mad-die Cusick, and two great-grandchildren: Khaleesi and Declan and beloved nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass was held at San Jose Catholic Church, 3619 Toledo Rd # A, Jacksonville, FL 32217, on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at 11:00 AM.

The family is beyond thankful for the Hospice nurses and caregivers. Their support and experience during the final stages of Jack’s life is immeasurably appreciated. In lieu of flowers, please donate to any Community Hospice & Palliative Care to ensure this service continues to be available. Please visit www.hardagegiddensoaklawnchapel.com to leave words of comfort for the family. Arrangements under the care and direction of Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32207, (904)-737-7171.