Jack F. Rouse

Jack F. Rouse, 78, of Raleigh, North Carolina passed away on September 10, 2023 at Transitions Home Hospice Care after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born on November 23, 1944 in Clarkton, North Carolina, son of the late Alberter Rouse.

Jack went to school within the Columbus County school system where he met the love of his life, Kathleen (Kathy) Rouse. They were married on December 3, 1965. This December they would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary. Jack adored Kathy and their sons, Patrick and Peter and took great joy in spending quality time with them. One of his favorite past times was cooking for others, especially for his immediate and extended families. That love allowed him to spend countless hours at the table laughing, storytelling, playing games and enjoying time with one another. No matter what time they would come over, he would always have a hot, full course meal awaiting them.

After graduating from Artesia High School, Jack was drafted in the United States Air Force where he served honorably. He was a proud war veteran who could always be seen sporting his United States Air Force baseball cap and walking the halls of the Vet Center in Raleigh and the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Durham greeting other veterans in need of a smile or encouraging conversation. Jack was so proud of his service in the Air Force that whenever he spoke with a young person he would ask “what are you doing with your life,” and no matter their response he would say, “you need to join the Airforce!”

After his term in the United States Air Force, he went on to attend Pennsylvania State University where he earned an associates degree in Fire Protection.

Jack began his professional career in the Fire Protection Service in 1970. He started as a tradesman fire sprinkler fitter and worked his way up to superintendent responsible for managing fire protection systems and protocols for multiple work sites. Jack loved his career and the close knit work community he developed over the years. During his career, he met several of his oldest and dearest friends.

Jack was a man of God who loved the Lord. He was a devoted member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, in Damascus, MD where he served as a greeter and loyal member of the adult bible studies, as well as the men’s and youth ministries. He was affectionately known as “Captain Jack” among his church community. He utilized his love of cooking to prepare meals for various church events and community organizations. He always responded to the call to prepare a meal with a hearty “YES!” Jack freely opened his home to anyone who needed a helping hand, giving unconditionally. Cooking, entertaining, and aiding others was his ministry and life calling, allowing him to offer his words of wisdom to many over a good meal. Countless family members, friends, and strangers were blessed by his gift of gab and hospitality.

Jack’s love and protective nature knew no boundaries. He was the epitome of a true man’s man, who met no strangers and would do anything for his family and friends. Jack’s larger than life personality, strong will, and vivacious spirit will be missed by all.

He is survived by his wife and two sons, Patrick (Liza) of Havre De Grace, Md and Peter Rouse of Westminster, Md; five grandchildren Gabrielle, Sheridyn, and Logan Rouse children of Patrick Rouse, Jackson and Xavier Rouse children of Peter Rouse and their mother Grace Jensen; and eight siblings, Jerry Rouse, Patricia Rouse, Minnie (Llowellyn) Boone, Nathaniel (Tori) Powell, James Powell, Bertha Powell, Tyson Green and Miriam Campbell. Jack also leaves behind his dear cousin Doris Green, with whom he had a special relationship and a host of friends, cousins, nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly, especially his nephew James (Gina) Williams, who was like a son to him.

A memorial service for Jack was held Tuesday, September 19, 2023, at Mitchell Funeral Home. A graveside service occured Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 164 Longs Plant Farm Rd, Goldsboro, NC 27534.

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