John "Jack" W. Isbell

John “Jack” W. Isbell, 85, of Memphis, passed away peacefully on Thursday.

Jack was a graduate of Syracuse’s Smith Technical High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from SUNY Oswego. Jack dedicated his professional life to education, working as an Industrial Arts and Technology teacher in the West Genesee School District for 36 years before retiring in 1999. He held many roles in the teachers’ association and was a board member of Westar Credit Union.

Jack’s passion for teaching extended far beyond the classroom. He was generous and patient in sharing his knowledge and wisdom, whether offering advice, mentoring others, or leading a Boy Scout troop. A gifted woodworker and tinkerer, Jack took great pleasure in building furniture, caring for the family home, and repairing just about anything that needed fixing.

Jack cherished spending time with his family and being outdoors, especially at the family’s beloved cabin on the Black River in Forestport, New York. His deep appreciation of nature became a lasting legacy that has been passed down to his children and grandchildren. An adventurous spirit, Jack loved traveling and camping with his family. In retirement, he and his dear wife embarked on many memorable journeys, including an unforgettable road trip to Alaska. His humor, warmth, sense of adventure, and love of family will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Jack was predeceased by his parents, John and Eunice.

Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Catherine "Kit"; son, Michael of Memphis; daughter, Connie Isbell of Long Branch, NJ; son-in-law, Eric Nathanson of Long Branch, NJ; granddaughters, Alice Nathanson of Long Branch, NJ, and Lila Nathanson of Philadelphia, PA; brother, Richard (Candace) Isbell of Bradenton, FL; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and friends.

Jack’s family wishes to extend their gratitude for the care provided to him at St. Joseph’s Hospital in his final days.

To celebrate Jack’s life, relatives and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral service will follow at the funeral home.

Jack will be laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery, Syracuse, after prayers in Woodlawn’s Sunset Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you perform an act of kindness for someone in Jack’s memory.