Jack W. Hirst, 82, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on July 23, 2020. At Jack’s request, he will be cremated and a celebration of life will follow at a later date.
Jack was born in Independence, Missouri on July 27, 1937 to Bill and LaVern Hirst. He studied carpentry and graduated from Manual Vocational Academy in 1955. Following graduation, he spent three years farming with his uncle. He then joined the United States Army and served from February 1958 to November 1960 as a diesel mechanic. He later joined the Independence, Missouri Fire Department, where he happily served his community for almost 30 years, retiring in 1993 as a District Chief. He was frequently referred to the “Jack Of All Trades” as there were very few things that he didn’t excel at.
On July 28, 1961, Jack married the love of his life, Ruth “Mavoy” Hawkins. Together, they raised three children, two daughters and a son. Following his retirement, Jack spent much of his time fishing. He and his wife usually spent their winters traveling to Texas and their summers camping and enjoying friends in Warsaw, Missouri.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents.
He is survived by his loving wife; brother, Pete Hirst; sister, Anita Hain; son, Michael (Cindy) Hirst; daughters, Andrea Abel (John Poland) and Angel (Steve) Carleton; grandchildren, Brianna Abel (Austin Stone), Dakota Abel (Brittany Schulenberg), Riley (Ariana) Hirst, Aayden Carleton, Tanner Carleton, Rayne Monteer; great-granddaughters, Evelyn Abel, Emalyn Johnson, Madalyn Ashley; and many extended family members.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem, Independence, MO 816-796-8600
Pam Wishon
30 Jul 2020Mavoy and family, Pat and I are so sorry for your loss. Jack and dad were such good friends while on the Fire Department and even after they both retired. Mom and dad enjoyed so much spending time with you guys at the breakfasts and luncheons the retirees had. Then after dad passed I was lucky enough to be able to bring mom to the events. Know you and the family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Pam Wishon
Pat Evans
Daughters of Benton and Lila Clyde
Kay Cornwell
6 Aug 2020The Scott Cornwell family sends their deepest condolences to you and the family. Many years were shared by all of us in the “Fire Dept.” family. Prayers for all.
Richard & Vickie Burton
6 Aug 2020So sorry for your loss. Jack was one of my best friends on the fire dept. We would go to Texas to escape the cold of winter which was the best part of the year.. Jack & Mavoy were one of a kind he will be missed.
Reggie Wolfe
6 Aug 2020Mavoy I am so sorry for yours and your family lose, Jack was a very good person and a good leader,
He will be deeply missed.
Loy Crabtree
7 Aug 2020Mavoy. …. very sad to hear that Jack passed he was loved and respected by everyone. He will be missed. Rendell and Patsy
Kirk Stobart
7 Aug 2020The Members of IAFF Local 781 offers our deepest condolences to the Hirst Family. Jack is remembered as a great Fireman and representative of Local 781. We would like to offer our Union Hall for his Celebration of Life when the time comes. Please contact me at your convenience.
Harold and Joni Ethington
7 Aug 2020Mavoy, we were so sad to hear that Jack passed away. Our thoughts and prayers and with you. Harold and Joni