Jack G Dyess

MAJOR JACK G DYESS (US ARMY RETIRED)

Jack was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Omaha and his Master of Science from The University of Nebraska/Omaha. He enlisted at the age of 19 in the military and retired 35 years later as a Major in the US Army. He is a decorated veteran having served two tours in Viet Nam as a combat engineer. While in the Army, he participated in the 1976 Montreal Olympics on the US Orienteering team. He was elected as President of the US Orienteering Federation in 1973 and coached the Ohio University team to three national championships. His passion for the sport lead him to publish a book which is still in use at the college level.

After instructing at the university level, Jack was the JROTC instructor in the Fort Worth School District at Trimble Tech High School and Southwest High School. Often while at dinner or an activity, it was common to hear ‘Major Dyess, do you remember me?’

Jack’s love for boating began at a young age. He formed DFW Maritime and as the lead instructor for US Coast Guard Captain’s licensing held a Captain’s license in the US Merchants Marines, 100 Gross Tons. Often he was requested to serve as an expert witness in boating accident cases. As one of 22 active Instructor Evaluators for the American Sailing Association (ASA), he held 19 ASA certifications.

Governor Rick Perry commissioned Jack an Admiral in the Texas Navy in 2007 as recognition of his service to his Country, his State, and his City. He represented the citizens of Haltom City from 2012-2016 on the City Council, and served a term as Mayor Pro Tem.

As an avid military history enthusiast, he visited over 100 Civil War battlefields as well as numerous World War II battlefields in Europe.

His love of teaching drew him to the Texas Civil War Museum, where he served as a docent and speaker, constantly looking for ways to engage the public with this part of American history. He was a popular speaker and traveled the country giving his PowerPoint presentations on all aspects of American history.

He was a member of the Reserve Officers Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Order of the Southern Cross, Order of the Blue and Gray, charter member of the Order of the Vietnam War, and charter member of Society of Steel Magnolias. Other memberships included Society of Independent Southern Historians, life member in the Sons of Confederate Veterans, and the Military Order of Stars and Bars where he served as State Society Commander 2015-2017.

Jack loved to dance, competing, and winning many swing dance competitions throughout Texas. When asked what was his most interesting experience he would always say teaching actress, Julia Roberts, to country-western dance while appearing in a movie with her and Willie Nelson in 1992.

Even in death, Jack continues to give back. His relationship with his stepson showed him the importance of organ and tissue donations. His parting gift through Life Gift donation has allowed a burn victim to be given the gift of hope at a time when he or she must have been feeling lost.

Jack is survived by his wife Diane Agerton Dyess of Haltom City; daughters LTC (Ret) Jackie L. Dyess and husband COL (Ret) David P. Sigler of San Antonio, and Doris Elaine Dyess Hughes and husband MSG (Ret) Jimmie Hughes of Colorado Springs; Step-Grandson Javon Hughes and wife Amy Hughes and Great Granddaughter Alyvia Hughes; Grandson Navy Seaman Dominick Jack Hughes and wife Candace Hughes; and Granddaughter Nina Hughes and Great Grandson Apollo Hughes, all of Colorado Springs.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be made to The Texas Civil War Museum Endowment or to the Veterans of Foreign Wars.