Funeral services for Jack G. Lavender, 85, will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 4, at Barrett Funeral Home in Cleveland. A family graveside service will be held in Nolensville, Tennessee at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept.5.
Mr. Lavender passed away Aug. 31, 2021
Born March 17, 1936, in Franklin, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Hershel and Josephine Lavender. In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his wife, of 37 years, Katie Lou Brittain Lavender.
His sister, June Wayman, still resides in Nashville. Jack grew up in Franklin, Tennessee. After graduation Jack served in the Marine Corp. from 1954-1956.
He attended Middle Tennessee State University, earning a bachelor's degree in science and later a master's degree in education. His career included teaching science at Fernbank Science Center (61-64) and teaching physical education at Brockett Elementary School (64-67.) He was the youngest principal in Dekalb County at Idlewood Elementary School in Tucker, from 1967-1983. Jack finished his career as an administrator for Dekalb County School System (84-89.)
After retirement Jack served on the board of the Georgia Federal Credit Union for 30 years. Jack enjoyed tennis, poker, pitching horseshoes and singing. He always loved old-time gospel music, and the family often gathered on their porch to sing together.
Survivors include his wife of 23 years, Ruth Ann Cloyd Lavender; his son, Britt (Gretchen) Lavender; grandchildren, Blaisdell (Savannah), Preston (Hannah), Quentin (Kara), and great-grandchildren, Taylor Grace, Beckham, and Raine; his daughter, Tina (Steve) Weeks: grandchildren, Tyler (Velda), Ethan (Christina): and great-grandchildren, Hudson and Bryce; his daughter, Polly (Chris) Wang: grandchildren, Garrett (Brittany), and Chase; his daughter, Laura (Tommy) Watson; grandchildren, Luke, Mandy (Tommy), Jake, and Drew; and great-grandchildren, Katie Mae, Owen, and Milo; his stepdaughter, Kathy Cloyd Neilson; step grandchild, Alexis; and great-grandchild, Mary; and his stepdaughter, Bonnie (Bobby) Ray: grandchildren, Emily Ann (Nathan), Allie, Sara Grace, and Hannah.
Visitation will be from 10 until 11 a.m. prior to the service.
Jack was a member of Mountain View Church of Christ in Cleveland.
Barrett Funeral Home in Cleveland is in charge of arrangements.