Jack Speechley

John F. Speechley, Jr. 78 died on September 24, 2024  in Saluda, VA from complications of Parkinson’s Disease. John, or Jack as he was known, was born June 1, 1946 in Pearl River, NY the oldest of eight children to Hazel and John Speechley, Sr.  Jack graduated from Pearl River High School in 1965. 

Jack was loyal (almost to a fault sometimes), stubborn, funny, and loving.  He was a flirt and a charmer.  He always had a smile and compliment for the ladies he knew.  His favorite ladies include his ex-wife and mother of his children, Rosemarie Langworth, his lifelong dear friend Rose Mitchell, and his most recent companion Carol Peycke. 

The true loves of his life were his children and grandchildren.  His daughter Tina (Tim), son John F. Speechley III (Sabrina) and his beloved grandchildren James Sheridan, Arianna Speechley (Michael), Shane Speechley and his much-adored great-grandson Jaxson Neary as well as his bonus daughter Margaret Oswald (Drew) and bonus son Michael (Heather) Valentin.  The family shared many Sunday afternoon dinners, vacations, and tailgates at the Pearl River St. Patrick’s Day Parade.  When the children visited Jack in Virginia to either his home on Gwynn’s Island or Matthews, time was spent fishing, going to Busch Gardens, visiting family, and spending time at the beach.

Jack has been described larger than life by his children, grandchildren, siblings, and friends.  He was quick to share a smile or a laugh.  He would sing randomly, especially on road trips.  He was a beloved “partner in crime” with his grandkids who loved to go fishing, get ice cream, or just spend time with their beloved Pop.  Jack loved traveling, stealing French fries from his grandchildren’s plates, animals, especially dogs and horses, classic cars, and Johnny Cash

Jack was a Vietnam Veteran and served in the 11th Infantry Regiment.  Jack was proud to serve his country. He was part of the VFW in Pearl River and the American Legion in both New York and Virginia.  Jack was part of the founding group of veterans that started Vietnam Veterans 333 and the original group that began the Watch fires tradition.  Jack suffered severe PTSD and worked hard to heal the scars that war left on him.  He felt it was important to help all veterans and made it a mission to help young veterans with their own challenges.

He is survived by his brothers Jim (Ann), William, Howard (Diane), and Robert (Iris), his sisters Maryann Parish (Steve) and Ann Speechley, as well as his great aunts Barbara Speechley (Joseph) and Carol Speechley (Frank) and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Jack was predeceased by his parents Hazel and John, his beloved sister Hazel Marie and brother-in-law John Burton, his dear daughter-in-law Ali Marie Speechley, nephew Joshua Speechley, niece Hope Speechley and ex-wife Cindy (nee Winter). 

A celebration of Jack and his life will be held at Wyman Fisher Funeral Home in Pearl River, NY  on November 9, 2024 from 1 to 4 p.m.  In lieu of flowers donations are asked to be made to The Parkinson’s Foundation or Disabled American Veterans.

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