It is with profound sadness and deep affection that we announce the passing of Jack David Dellinger, who went to heaven peacefully in his sleep on September 15, 2024, in Pensacola, FL. Born in Hawk, Mitchell County, NC, on February 22, 1931, Jack lived a rich and storied life over the course of 93 years.
Jack is now reunited in eternal rest with his beloved parents, Marve and Susan (Sude) Dellinger; his cherished wife, Leslie Phillips Dellinger; and his dear siblings, James, Ruth, Rachel, Edith, Mabel, and Wayne, all of whom had preceded him in passing.
He leaves behind a legacy of enduring love and treasured memories with his devoted daughters, Caroline Dellinger Lambert (Todd), Pensacola FL and Sude Dellinger Peta, Columbus GA, his adored grandchildren, Jack Dellinger Peta, Milly Peta and Sabine Peta and his faithful miniature poodle, Peppi.
Eager to explore the world outside the isolated NC mountains, Jack answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force in February 1949. It was during his service, including the Korean War, that he resolved to further his education in engineering. Jack pursued and achieved his goal, graduating from NC State University in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering.
While at NC State, fate led Jack to the love of his life, Anne “Leslie ” Phillips, a psychology student at nearby Meredith College. United in marriage at the historic Grace Episcopal Church on March 30, 1959 in Morganton NC, they embarked on a 60 year shared journey filled with genuine love and accomplishment.
Jack continued his professional path as an esteemed computer programmer and software engineer at IBM for 30 years. The zenith of his career was undoubtedly his involvement in the US space program, contributing to the Saturn V rocket and Apollo missions, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Upon retiring from IBM in 1997, Jack returned to his roots, undertaking the restoration of the historic Dellinger family Grist Mill, a symbol of his heritage. Despite the challenges, including a devastating flood, Jack persevered and was proud to see the mill listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the only water-powered grist mill in NC still in operation.
Jack was a man of many tales, imbued with Appalachian tradition and the spirit of innovation, evidenced by the countless YouTube videos that showcase the idyllic summer days at the mill. Visitors from all over the world enjoyed his cornmeal, grits and polenta, ground from heirloom NC corn. His memoir remains a testament to his life’s journey and love of community.
A traditionalist at heart, Jack often said that no matter where life took him, the essence of the mountains never left him. His humor, kindness, and remarkable life stories touched all who knew him and his spirit will be profoundly missed.
Arrangements for Jack Dellinger’s funeral are being managed by a local funeral home in Florida. A celebration of Jack’s storied life is being planned by his family and will take place next summer in the mountains of North Carolina, where his roots and heart have always remained.
Jack Dellinger Obituary
Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 16, 2024.
