Lewis “Jack” Franklin Leary, age 77, passed away on December 20, 2024, in Independence, Missouri. Born on January 29, 1947, in Keyser, West Virginia, Jack was the son of Charles and Margaret (Moore) Leary. He spent his early years in Keyser and attended school there before moving to California during his senior year to live with his sister. He graduated from Morro Bay High School in 1965.
Jack returned to West Virginia to embark on a multifaceted career, beginning in law enforcement in West Virginia and Maryland. He transitioned to private security, establishing his own K-9 Security service where he trained his canine partners. Upon moving to Greenwood, Missouri, he became an officer for the Greenwood Police Department before transitioning to short-haul trucking with Overnite. Relocating to California, he became a property manager and an armed security guard.
Always the performer, Jack’s passion for the limelight flourished in Missouri where he became the “Fun Police” for Q104 Radio Station, ensuring an enjoyable time at all their events. In California, he launched a mobile music business and adopted the iconic nickname “Jump’n Jack Flash,” captivating audiences with his vibrant performances. A talented entertainer, he brought fun to countless special events, fundraisers, car shows, and KCBQ radio audiences as a DJ. He generously volunteered his time and talents for numerous benefit and fundraiser events supporting animal shelters, Veteran nonprofits, first responders, and for 17 consecutive years, the California Border Patrol Benefit Ride. He was an avid karaoke singer and a captivating impersonator of Hank Williams Jr. and Wolfman Jack.
His Hank Williams Jr. impersonation garnered multiple awards from the California Country Music Association over the years, including Male Vocalist of the Year, Entertainer of the Year, Video of the Year, Duo of the Year, and the Redneck Award.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents and four older siblings: June Mantecon, Bertha “Dotty” Gabbard, Hattie “Betty” Schimpf, and Charles “Neil” Leary. He is lovingly remembered by his two sons, Michale Leary of Stephens City, Virginia, and Brian (Stephanie) Leary of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; as well as his grandchildren, Courtney Emra, Brandon Leary, Kyannah Leary, and Dakota Leary.
Jack’s vibrant personality and dedication to his family and community will be deeply missed.
Arrs: Royer Funeral Home Oak Grove, MO 816-690-4441
Richard Carlson
16 Jan 2025I am a retired San Diego Police Detective and spanned many years of fun events with Jack. He was the DJ for several San Diego Police Museum events including the Cops And Rodders Car Show. Jack was a good friend. He was fun and dependable. He helped raise money for the Police Museum. He will be missed. God Bless him and his family.
Jerry
16 Jan 2025Knew Jack from the El Cajon Car Shows! Your definitely missed!
Paul Dunne
18 Jan 2025I knew Jack from all the car shows he did. I also helped him with electrical problems and updates on his van. He was a great guy,inspiring and fun to be with. We will all miss him. He was our local “wolfman jack”