Arthur "Jack" Leon Leggett

Arthur "Jack" Leon Leggett, Jr., passed away suddenly and peacefully on April 18, 2025, in Shelby County, Texas, at the age of 93.

A funeral service honoring Jack’s life will be held on May 10, 2025, at Mangum Funeral Home located at 420 San Augustine Street in Center, Texas (75935), beginning at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow at Carroll Cemetery.

He was the oldest son of Arthur Leon Leggett, Sr and Bessie Mildred Waterhouse and brother to Rodney Leggett.  Born on July 2, 1931, in Houston, Texas, Jack was known from an early age by the nickname that would stay with him for life. His aunts affectionately called him "Little Jackie," believing he resembled the famed boxer Jack Dempsey. The name Jack became his identity among family and friends.

Jack pursued higher education at the University of Houston, where he earned an Associate’s Degree. At the age of 19, around the time he married Marvy Louise Goodson—lovingly known as Lucy—he began his long and distinguished career with The Superior Oil Company. Starting as a motorcycle messenger, Jack's dedication and intellect propelled him through the ranks to become an engineering systems manager for Superior's Offshore Exploration and Production Division. His career reflected his steadfast work ethic and commitment to excellence until his retirement.

Briefly serving as a private in the United States Army during the Korean War era, Jack was medically discharged during basic training before deployment. Though his military service was short-lived, it was a testament to his willingness to serve his country.

Jack’s life was deeply rooted in family. He shared nearly sixty years of marriage with Lucy before her passing. Together they built a family that brought them immense pride and joy. Jack is survived by his children: Paul David Leggett and daughter-in-law Gwendolyn Wong Leggett; Matthew Wayne Leggett and Jing Ayala; Timothy Jon Leggett and daughter-in-law Diana Leggett; and Melinda Buebe and son-in-law Kenny Buebe. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Julia Leggett Freeman and her husband Tyson Chase Freeman; Casey Buebe; and Victoria Rose McClendon-Leggett; as well as his great-granddaughter Scottie Elyse Freeman.

He is also remembered fondly by his nephews Gary Leggett and Ernest Jahnke, Ernest’s wife Delores Jahnke, and their daughter Amanda.

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife Lucy; sons John David Leggett, Mark Leon Leggett, and Steven Kipling Leggett; and brother Rodney Leggett.

A man of many interests, Jack found joy in genealogy, and coin collecting and his retirement with Lucy in Shelby County. His passion for tracing family histories reflected his deep appreciation for heritage and connection across generations.

Those who knew Jack admired him for his intelligence, integrity, and unwavering devotion to family. He carried himself with quiet dignity and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jack Leon Leggett’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May his legacy continue to inspire all who knew him.

Pallbearers serving will be Nicholas Cardenàs, Chase Freeman, Ernest (Gus) Jahnke, Jack May, Craig Williams, and Larry Williams.