John L. “Jack” Beasley, age 89, of Decatur, passed away September 2, 2026, at NHC Healthcare surrounded by his family. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Shelton Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Scotty Hogan officiating. The family will receive friends on that day from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Interment afterwards at Burningtree Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers are Scott Ridgeway, Tim Beasley, Logan Beasley, David Beasley, Spencer Beasley, Adam Housley, and Woody Doran
Jack was born September 28, 1936, in San Diego, California, where his father was stationed with the Navy, to John and Mildred Beasley. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, his beautiful wife of 56 years Mary Maylene Harris Beasley, son Michael Beasley, and brother Larry Beasley. He is survived by his sister Ann Faulkner, son Ron Beasley, daughter-in-law Karen Beasley, grandchildren, Spencer Beasley (Lauren), Maggie Beasley, Keller Beasley and Logan Beasley; great-grandchildren, Lawson Beasley and Ann Collins Beasley; nephews Max Beasley, Tim Beasley and David Beasley; niece Angela Griffis and special friend Bernice Bowling.
Raised in Limestone County, Jack graduated from Athens High School in 1954. In college, he won first place in the Third Army Area and placed third in the nation in a national ROTC rifle marksman competition. After graduating from the University of Tennessee in 1960 with a B.S. degree in engineering, he enjoyed a successful and rewarding 43 year career as an aerospace engineer with the Marshall Space Flight Center. He was baptized at an early age and was a long-time member of Westmeade Baptist Church and, needless to say, a devoted Tennessee Vols fan.
He took to several sports over his adult years. He was an avid tennis player for over 60 years, receiving several sportsman awards. He was also a member of a senior tennis team that went undefeated from 1987 to 1998 in Alabama state tournaments. He also enjoyed scuba diving, waterskiing, playing golf, RV travel and camping with family, always taking in the wonders of nature and animal life. His grandchildren brought him deep joy and he celebrated their lives and accomplishments with genuine pride. He lived life well, always thankful for life’s blessings.
Jack had this unique ability to understand people as he listened more than he talked. He treated everyone with respect while leading by example. While we mourn his passing, we take comfort in the knowledge that he has been reunited with his loved ones in the embrace of eternal peace.
In lieu of flowers, contribution may be made to a charity of your choice or Westmeade Baptist Church (2030 Beltline Road, Decatur, AL 35601).
