Some people make an impression with their words. Jack Breeback made his with the way he lived.

Known to many as a gentle giant, Jack had a quiet strength that put people at ease. He never met a stranger, never sought the spotlight, and rarely left a conversation without leaving someone smiling. He was kind, generous, genuine, and his steady faith quietly shaped the lives of everyone who knew him.

Jack entered the presence of his Savior on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on February 4, 1948, in Greenville, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Ernest Edward Breeback and Ellen Turner Breeback.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Jack believed in serving something greater than himself. He spent his career in lumber yards, production facilities, and warehouses, earning the respect of those around him through humility, dependability, and an honest day's work. In retirement, he continued serving veterans and the community through the American Legion, gifting American flags, faithfully knitting stocking hats for Samaritan's Purse, and investing in people with the same quiet generosity that defined his life.

Jack enjoyed the simple things in life. He loved working with his hands in the woodshop, spending time in the garden, cooking for family and friends, and tracing his family's history. He loved taking drives through the mountains of Northeast Georgia and the upstate of South Carolina, especially when there was no hurry to get anywhere. Southern Gospel and bluegrass music were often playing nearby, and baseball and softball always held a special place in his heart. One of Jack's greatest joys each Christmas season was putting on the red suit and serving as Santa Claus, bringing smiles, laughter, and Christmas cheer to children and families throughout the community.

Above every hobby, however, was his love for people. For fifty-three years, he faithfully loved his wife, Marilyn. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and serving others. He was a proud father to Jace and Jana, a proud grandfather to Isabella, Blakeleigh, and Isaiah, and a loyal friend whose presence brought comfort, kindness, and compassion wherever he went.

His faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. A faithful member of The Journey at Lavonia First Baptist Church, Jack lived with a quiet confidence that God would fight the battles he could not. His favorite verse, John 3:16, was more than a passage he knew; it was the hope by which he lived and the promise in which he now rests.

Jack is survived by his wife, Marilyn Breeback; his son, Jace Breeback; his daughter, Jana Breeback-Cuff; and his grandchildren, Isabella Breeback, Blakeleigh Breeback, and Isaiah Breeback.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Edward Breeback and Ellen Turner Breeback; his brother, Clarence Breeback; and his sisters, Sheryl Hinton and Diane Koontz.

A Celebration of Life honoring Jack will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at The Journey at Lavonia First Baptist Church. Friends will be received following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The Journey at Lavonia First Baptist Church.

Services have been entrusted to Coile and Hall Funeral Directors and Crematory of 333 E. Johnson Street Hartwell, GA  30643.