Jack Little was born in 1935 in Sumner, Missouri to George and Ethel May Little. He was the youngest of 11 children. Jack was raised in Kansas City and had fond memories of taking the streetcar to watch the KC Monarchs. He graduated from Westport High School in 1954 where he excelled academically and athletically. He attended Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, MO on a baseball scholarship, earning degrees in Physical Education and English. He went on to complete a Master’s Degree and Specialist Degree from the University of Central Missouri. Jack began his career in Garden City, MO as a Coach and Physical Education teacher, eventually becoming Principal of Sherwood High School. He developed and administered a summer recreation program and was instrumental in creating a baseball field for youth and adults in the community. In 2011 Jack was honored by former players of Garden City for his work in the development of the ballpark. Jack worked for the University of Central Missouri for 15 years as an Advisor and Director of Housing. He then accepted the position of Principal at Clinton High School until he retired in 1988 after 30 years of service in education. After retirement he was an avid fisherman, fishing the U.S. Bass Fishing Tournament Circuit. He also enjoyed guiding at Truman Lake and golfing when he had the chance.
Jack was active in the community serving as President of the Warrensburg Lions Club and later as the Missouri Deputy Governor for Lions International. In addition he was Exalted Ruler for the Warrensburg Elks Lodge, and District Deputy for Grand Lodge of Elks.
Jack’s family includes his wife of 63 years JoAnn Little of Springfield, Missouri; daughter Jill Lazzarrini (Frank), Springfield, and son Jay Little (Janet) of Lee’s Summit. Jack and JoAnn danced a million miles, and modeled for their family a marriage highlighted by laughter and fun. Jack was adored by his grandchildren Sabrina Whisler (Jason), Springfield; Mara Lazzarini (Silas), Springfield; Casey Wheeler (Collin), Olathe, KS; and Nick Little, Denver, CO. A highlight of his week was spending time with great granddaughters Sloane and Collins Whisler, often enjoying a pretend tea party.
Jack delighted in his role as Poppy. He frequently mailed his grandchildren handwritten notes to acknowledge their accomplishments or provide words of wisdom and encouragement. He will be remembered for his love of sports and old Western movies, his repertoire of funny voices and spontaneous performances of “The Poppy Dance.” He loved to tell stories about college, playing baseball, camping and fishing with family and friends, and awards and achievements of his children and grandchildren, always commenting with a smile, “It ain’t braggin’ if you done it.” He enjoyed making people smile and laugh and was quick with a funny one liner. He went out of his way to acknowledge and express appreciation to everyone around him.
The greatest legacy one can pass on to one’s children and grandchildren is not money or other material things accumulated in one’s life, but rather a legacy of character and faith. ~Billy Graham
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Jack’s memory to your favorite local charity.
