Jack John Gum, 87, of Frankford, Delaware, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2025,surrounded by loved ones. Born on January 20, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, Jack was the son of the late William Cyrus Gum and Evelyn Luebs Gum.

After graduating from Memphis High School in 1956, Jack proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1963. His love of science and exploration led him to a long and fulfilling career at NASA. Based at the Wallops Island facility, Jack brought precision to the skies through his work on guidance systems for sounding rockets, traveling to Norway, Peru, Canada, and Alaska during his career. He retired in 1997 after 28 years of dedicated service.

Jack was also deeply committed to his faith in the workplace. He was proud to have started a daily Bible study and prayer meeting during lunchtime at Wallops Island, which welcomed many of his fellow workers. That gathering, a testament to his quiet leadership and spiritual devotion, continues to this day.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Sara Jo Gum, and their blended and loving family: Sons: Pastor John Nelson (Lois) and Pastor William Nelson (Debbie); Daughter: Sue McRae (Roy); Stepchildren: Connie Prigg (Brian), William Naples (Alyce), and David Naples (Trudy); Grandchildren: Teresa, Dannielle, Lauren, Christopher, Lindsey, Sean, Marisa, Rebecca, Harley, Natalie, Jacklyn, Casie, Dylan, and Madison.

He was preceded in death by his brother, William Gum, and is survived by his sisters Janet Moore of Seaford, DE, and Kathleen Williams of Bridgeville, DE, along with numerous other relatives and dear friends.

Jack was a true storyteller. He was a kind, witty man full of curiosity. He loved traveling, gardening, and playing games with family. A man of deep faith, Jack was an active member of Crossroad Community Church in Dagsboro, Delaware, where he served faithfully and joyfully.

Jack leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love. His stories, his kindness, and his steady presence will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A visitation will be held from 11 A.M. to 12 noon on Thursday, April 17, 2025 at the Frankford Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 43 Thatcher Street, Frankford, DE 19945, where a funeral service will begin at 12 noon. Interment will follow at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE 19966.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Building Fund of Lighthouse Christian School,28157 Lighthouse Crossing, Dagsboro, DE 19939