Jack Duel Wallace
M/Sgt. USAF (Ret’d.)
May 20, 1945-August 15, 2020

Jack Wallace was known for his intelligence, wit, skill, generosity, and servant heart. He was a good man, one to turn to in any circumstance and get help or advice. He was always active and enjoyed solving problems, whether related to his roles in the Air Force or figuring out how to fix a vehicle or a household issue. He loved this country and his family with his whole heart.

Jack was born in Austin, MN, the only son, and oldest child of Jack Duel Wallace, (Col., U.S Army) and Phyllis Richardson Wallace who both predeceased him. As an Army brat, he began a nomadic lifestyle that would continue into his career in the Air Force and as an Air Force civilian. Jack is survived by his high school sweetheart and the love of his life for 56 years, Reba Jean Kaeserman Wallace and their two children Theresa Lynn Thompson (Kevin) and John Duel Wallace (Pam). He is also mourned by his sisters, Jeanette Pierce (George), Mary Finney (Mike), and Katherine Griffin (Harry).  His grandchildren include Lynnsi Simpson (Skylar) and great granddaughter Willow, Sarah Wallace, Carli Wallace, and Kaytlynn Wallace, step-grandchildren Brandi Valentine (Keith) and sons Braiden and Peyton, Alexandra Ruffin (Matthew) and son Rhett, and Chas Thompson.  In addition, Jack had many nieces and nephews: Jill Piazzi (Frank), James Peters, Matthew Finney (Dori), Anne Finney, Tyler Finney (Chynna), Scott Finney (Meghan), Dr. Patrick Griffin (Allison) and Karry Starin (Jason). He is also survived by his stepfamily members Phyllis Fitzgerald Wallace, Elizabeth and Mel Crissey, Colleen Fitzgerald, many cousins, dear friends, and his beloved dog, Sasha.  

The military was always part of Jack’s life. As a child, he and his family made frequent moves, sometimes one a year. In fact, he attended a different high school each year graduating from Baker HS in Columbus, GA in 1963. His 26-year military career included medical administration assignments throughout the US, Thailand during the Viet Nam War, and Germany. He retired at Laughlin AFB, Del Rio, TX, and promptly went back to work for another 17 years in the civil service with the Flight Training Wing at Laughlin, making his final retirement from his career in the Air Force in 2007. Jack’s work was honored with many awards, notably the Air Force Outstanding and Exemplary Civilian Service Medals. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 8552, Del Rio, TX, and The American Legion.  

Jack’s funeral will be led by Rev. John Ellis in the chapel at Beck Funeral Home located at 15709 Ranch Rd. 620, Austin, TX 78717 on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020, with viewing at 9 AM and service at 10 AM. Interment with military honors will follow at a later date at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, with Pastor Sarah Roemer as officiant. 

The family sincerely thank Jack’s medical professionals including Drs. Sint and Ashworth and the staff at St. David’s Hospital, Round Rock, who gave him such good care.

If you wish to honor Jack’s memory, do something kind today, and in lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.