Billy Jack Garner died on March 6, 2025 at the age of 97.
He was born on the family ranch in Lampasas to Milton Edward and Dicie Beatrice Garner. Jack and his twin brother Mack joined three older brothers in the family.
While in Lampasas schools, he met the love of his life, Jo Ann Witcher.
After graduating from Lampasas High School, he continued his education at Texas A&M University, earning a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering.
Jack and Jo Ann married in 1949 at First Baptist Church in Lampasas.
He was commissioned a lieutenant in the United States Army 45th Infantry Division and was sent overseas to fight in the Korean War.
Jack worked as an engineer for the USDA Soil Conservation Service for 40 years in various towns, but was in Harlingen for many years.
Jack was a faithful Christian and member of the Methodist church throughout his life. He also was an active Mason for more than 70 years.
After retirement, Jack and Jo Ann moved to the family ranch in Lampasas County.
They had three children, six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one more on the way. Jack and Jo Ann celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary in August 2024 with a big family celebration.
Jack loved participating in activities with his family and spent many hours teaching, watching, supporting and encouraging kids and grandkids as they hunted, fished, played sports, twirled, danced, cheered and excelled in school. When the children or grandchildren had success hunting on the family ranch, he made sure he was in a photo with them.
Jack died on the ranch he loved, where he started life. He was an optimistic, positive and supportive person who always let his family know how much he loved them.
Jack was preceded in death by his son, Paul.
He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann; daughter, Debby (Ross) Hardin; son, Mark (Connie) Garner; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel on March 14 at 9:30 a.m., with the service at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Watson Cemetery in Burnet County.
Memorial donations may be sent to Lampasas Methodist Church.
