Jack Ashlin Minnick, 96, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia, surrounded by his loving family.
Jack was born on January 8, 1930, in Lynchburg, Virginia, to Vernon L. Minnick and Blanche Palmer Ashlin Minnick. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Anne Shuff Minnick; his daughter, Belinda Minnick; his parents; and his sister, Mary Lee.
To his family and friends, our Dad was also fondly known as “Sweet Jackie,” “Pop-Pop,” and “Rabbi.” He is survived by his sister, Sandra (Fred); his six daughters, Laura, Susan, Melissa (Mike), Julia (Wayne), Katie (Paul), and MaryBeth; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of loving and close- knit nieces and nephews.
Dad devoted more than 40 years to serving the United Methodist Church in the Virginia Conference, ultimately retiring as District Superintendent of the Winchester District. He also served as a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve for more than 20 years. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, with distinction, from the 80th Division, Second Brigade.
His years at Emory and Henry University, the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, and the Army summer camps were among his fondest memories. Those years were filled with good trouble, much laughter, and lifelong friendships, which he passed along through his wonderful gift of storytelling.
His final pastorate was in Blacksburg, Virginia, where he teamed up with Frank Beamer and became one of the chaplains to the Virginia Tech Hokies football team. He cherished that time and the many relationships he formed there.
Dad was the best life coach anyone could ever hope for. He lived a long and full life, meeting each day with passion, purpose, and zeal. His faith, humor, wisdom, and love for his family were woven into everything he did.
One of the passages that beautifully reflects the way he lived his life is:
“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I ought to do. What I ought to do, by the grace of God, I will do.”
—John Angell James, 1848
The family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Dad’s friends at Atlantic Shores, along with the EMTs/security personnel, housekeeping, food service staff, landscaping and maintenance crews; the Westminster Hospice Family Care Team; Just in Time caregivers; and the Virginia Cremation Society for the extraordinary care, kindness, and compassion they shared with him and with our family.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Atlantic Shores at a later date. Interment will take place in Roanoke, Virginia, in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Westminster Canterbury At Home, or a charity of choice.
Dad leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, laughter, love, and family that will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.
(Source: https://www.vacremationsociety.com/obituaries/Jack-Ashlin-Minnick?obId=49410756)