John A. "Jack" Charon, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, faithful Catholic, and beloved member of the Tulsa community, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord on July 17, 2026, at the remarkable age of 100 years and 11 days.

Jack was born on July 6, 1926, in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, to Francis Albert Charon and Frances Crowe-Charon. He was the youngest of six children and spent his early years in Okmulgee before moving to Tulsa at the age of 13. There he attended Christ the King Parish and graduated from Marquette High School, where he was active in the Catholic Youth Organization.

Following graduation, Jack proudly served in the United States Naval Air Corps in World War II. During and following his military service, he attended Louisiana Tech University, Duke University, the University of Tulsa, and ultimately graduated from the University of Notre Dame. He often shared stories of hitchhiking from Tulsa to South Bend in his Navy uniform, recalling that traveling salesmen were always eager to give a young serviceman a ride home after the war.

Jack began a distinguished 35-year career as an accountant with Warren Petroleum. When the company was sold to Chevron, he chose retirement over relocating to Houston, believing that family and his roots in Tulsa were far more important than a career move.

That decision led to another chapter of service. Jack became Director of Calvary Cemetery, where he spent ten years restoring the cemetery's financial stability and ensuring it would continue serving Catholic families for generations. One of Jacks close friend affectionately nicknamed him "Digger Charon," a title Jack wore with good humor. Even after retirement, he continued working as an independent oil and gas auditor for companies throughout the country and later became a business partner in Quatro Oil & Gas.

On Valentine's Day in 1953, Jack attended a dance at the Mayo Hotel where he met the love of his life, Jayne. After returning his original date home early, he went back to the dance and introduced himself to the beautiful young woman across the room. Their first date was to see the Harlem Globetrotters, beginning a courtship rooted in, laughter, and friendship.

Jack and Jayne were later blessed with their daughter, Elizabeth Ann, in 1959 and their son, Francis "Frank" Charon, in 1961. Jack often said that every child is a gift from God, and his family remained the greatest joy of his life.

Jack's Catholic faith was the foundation of everything he did. He and Jayne were founding members of St. Pius X Parish when the church first began in a converted dairy barn in East Tulsa. He volunteered countless hours helping build the original parish and school alongside other parishioners after work each evening. He was a tireless supporter of Catholic education, believing it was one of the greatest gifts parents could give their children.

Throughout his life, Jack generously gave his time and talents to St. Pius X Church and School, Bishop Kelley High School, St. Gregory's, the Newman Center at the University of Tulsa, Birthright, Cooking Up Compassion, Pro-Life ministries, and numerous other Catholic organizations. He faithfully served as a Knight of Columbus, Knights and Ladies of the Holy Sepulcher and quietly helped countless individuals without ever seeking recognition.

Jack also had a tremendous love for youth sports. He coached baseball, softball, and football, ensured children had transportation to practices and games, and especially cherished watching the young men at St. Pius X and Biship Kelley play football. He believed sports-built character, teamwork, and lifelong friendships.

Known for his quick wit, warm smile, and generous heart, Jack never met a stranger. He loved telling stories, making people laugh, and spending time with family and friends. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained deeply humble. When complimented, he would simply say, "God has been so good to us."

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jayne Patrick-Charon; his parents, Francis A. Charon and Frances G. Crowe-Charon; his brothers, Francis Charon, William "Bill," Charon and Joseph Charon; and his sisters, Mary Charon- Towner and Ellen Charon- McCauley.

He is survived by his loving children, Elizabeth Ann Charon and Francis Patrick "Frank" Charon and wife Sandra Charon; his grandchildren, Stuart Barrett and wife Karen Barrett, Alex Charon and wife Elizabeth Charon, Hannah Charon-Poulin and husband Colby Poulin; six great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, faith, and friendship.

Jack's life was a testament to unwavering faith, selfless service, and unconditional love. He leaves behind a legacy of generosity, humility, laughter, and devotion to God that will continue to inspire generations to come.

The family finds great comfort knowing that Jack has been reunited with his beloved Jayne and now rests in the eternal presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, whom he faithfully served throughout his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to St. Pius X Catholic School, Go Life Mobile Medical and St. Gregory's Abby, Disabled American Veterans" DAV", continuing Jack's lifelong commitment to Catholic education and service to his country.

St. Pius X School

Go Life Mobile Medical

Disabled American Veterans "DAV"