Jack Goble

Jack Allen Goble, 87, of Abilene passed away after an eight-year battle with Parkinson's disease. He was born on October 2, 1937, in Callahan County, Texas, to Herman and Thelma (Connel) Goble. The oldest of five children, Jack grew up in Baird and Clyde, Texas, graduating from Clyde High School in 1956.

18 years old, Jack Goble, entered the U.S. Navy June 26th, 1956. He attended boot camp in San Diego, California. Upon graduation, Jack proceeded to Hospital Corps 'A' School, San Diego, California, where he earned the coveted Hospital Corpsman Medical Caduceus. After completion, Jack was then selected by the Navy to attend and train with the United States Marine Corps at the Navy's 8404 Fleet Marine Force (FMF) combat medical training school. From there, a newly minted combat trained corpsman, he was assigned duties at the U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, Navy Hospital. The duties he performed there gave him the necessary clinical experience needed to serve with the Marine Corps.

Jacks next assignment was with the 3rd Marine Division, Okinawa, Japan. Of all his duty assignments, this was his most beloved. While there, Jack, aka 'Doc' Goble, earned the rank of Petty Officer Third Class Hospital Corpsman. Serving independently, 'Doc' took great pride in caring for "his Marines" as well as providing field medical services for native Okinawan's.

Jack left active U.S. Navy service on the 7th of June, 1960, transferring to the US Navy inactive reserves, where he began the next leg of his lifelong journey. He married the love of his life Donna, on May 20th, 1967 and they shared life together for the next 57 years.

As they continued life and built their family, Jack's passion for service never waned. He soon embarked on a distinguished career in public service. He attended one of the first Police Academies in Abilene and became the city's first safety cruiser officer. Jack went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Sam Houston State University and later on received his master's in social work and psychology. He became the Police Chief at the VA Hospital in Big Spring, Texas, and later served as the Administrator of Cherokee Children's Home in Abilene for 13 years.

Throughout his life, Jack was committed to the welfare of others, whether serving in the military, law enforcement, or caring for vulnerable children. His integrity, compassion, and leadership shaped every role he took on.

Jack is preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Allen Goble; parents, Herman and Thelma Goble; and his brother, Tom Goble.

He is survived by his family members, wife, Donna; children, Amanda Monsey (Jason), Jaclyn Jones (David); Grandchildren, Christina Parra (Ryan), Kade Allen Goble (Kaitlyn), Bryson Monsey, and Aubreigh Monsey; sisters, Linnie Branton, Joy Norris, Chiggy Cato; Twin great grandchildren, Wyatt Allen and Wrenleigh Goble.

Jack's legacy of selfless service will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, and his contributions to his country and community will not be forgotten.