Jack Lynn Packett

Jack Lynn Packett, 91, of Lakeland, passed away February 18, 2019. He is survived by his wife, Candi Packett. Born October 23, 1927, in Knoxville, Tennessee, he was a son of the late Esten and Anna Packett. Jack Packett was born in Knoxville TN - back when his mom gave birth to all her kids with a mid-wife. Mr. Packett was a United states Navy WWII veteran. He was a boy scout, went into the Navy - which he was proud of his time in the service but did not want to re-enlist. He was a handsome man and the ladies were always flirting with him. When he got out of the service he went to college under the GI Bill. He worked at a florist shop delivering flowers to make some money. He got a job with Kraft foods and came to FL. While he was calling on Publix Super Markets Mr. George asked him to come work for him. Jack went back to TN to talk with his dad and told him he was going to work for Publix. His dad asked him if that was a smart idea. After all Kraft Foods was a big company and Publix was just a small grocery store chain, needless to say, Jack made the right decision! He retired from Publix as a buyer after 39 years of service and served as Past-President of Publix Federal Credit Union. Survivors also include his children, Shirley Myers, Sterling Myers, Louis Brasovan (Diana Stewart), and Kimberley Brasovan (Tim Sinnett); his sister, Barbara Stith; niece, Carole Stith; grandchildren, Ashley and Amy Brasovan, Melissa and Ashley Myers; great-great-grandchildren, Chassidy and Kennedi Myers, Denver Sterling Dees. Jack was married to Lorraine and had a step son, Buddy. Then he moved his whole family to FL. Mom, dad and sisters. Lorraine ended up getting cancer and passed away about 10 years after they were married. At that time Jack had his parents move in with him to help be there for Buddy as well. And, of course, all the women in Lakeland were wanting to date this handsome widower. About two years after Lorraine passed away Jack was at a Publix store set near Miami when he saw a beautiful young lady walking by. He asked his neighbor, Doug Hall, who that was. Doug told him that was Candi Brasovan, He told Doug he wanted to marry her so could he introduce them. Doug told him he was crazy – she had a string of guys who wanted her as well. Well – they met, and she agreed to go on a date with him. He wasted no time and asked her if she would marry him. She told him he was crazy. Well – she agreed to come to Lakeland to meet his parents. She brought a large salami and some other food. Jack’s dad and mom instantly approved of her. That impressed Jack’s dad. Jack had brought several women home to meet his parents, but they never liked any of them. They liked Candi. Six weeks after they met, they were married. It has been quite the adventure since then. Jack took on the role of husband and dad without skipping a beat. He loves his family, he loves his friends. As his daughter I can tell you that the best thing my Mom ever did for me was to marry Jack. He was a father in every sense to me just as though I was his own. The same as he did with Buddy. He was very close with all his kids. And he adored his grandchildren. In February 2000 Buddy died in an airplane accident. Jack was very close with him and this broke his heart. Jack was truly the best father and the best grandfather anyone could have. Not to leave anyone out the extended family calls him Uncle Jack. He welcomes them all with open arms. Always quick with a funny line he kept life upbeat. He is known for his quick replies. If you would ask him how he is he would reply” If I was any better, I would be in jail.” If you were visiting him, he would say “Now that I’m here with you I’m doing great,” He always said I love you. And to hurry back. So, at the ripe age of 91 he goes on to be with Buddy and numerous friends. He left this world a much better place. He loved us all deeply, as we loved him. God bless him and keep him until we see him again. But not too soon!