Jack Olen Outlaw

Jack Olen Outlaw, age 87, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 25, 2025, in the chapel of Sorrells Funeral Home in Slocomb, with Rev. Elizabeth Hinton officiating. Interment will follow in the Hartford City Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home, Thursday one hour prior to services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alabama Alzheimer’s Association.

Jack was born on May 1, 1938, in Hartford, to the late Lander Adolph and Ruby Mae Howell Outlaw. Jack devoted his life to providing for his family. He proudly served in the Army National Guard Armor Division before beginning a career of more than three decades with GTE, where he was admired for his strong work ethic, integrity, and kindness to all who knew him.

He was a loving husband to Joy Hardwick Outlaw for 64 years, a devoted father to Chuck (Rhonda) and Blakelynn (Bill), and a proud “Papa Jack” to his three grandsons: Alex (Lucie), Austin (Taylor), and Jack. He cherished many hours spent rocking on the front porch with family and friends, sharing stories of the past. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Jack will be remembered for his gracious spirit, humor, and steadfast support.  After retiring, Jack and Joy loved to travel. Through road trips with their dear friends, the Watsons, they visited all 50 states, and they also traveled abroad to Mexico, Canada, Spain, Italy, and France. In retirement, Jack enjoyed spending his days on the golf course. The camaraderie and lasting friendships he shared with his golfing buddies, a close-knit group fondly known as the "Lunch Bunch," meant as much to him as the game itself. A faithful member of First United Methodist Church of Dothan, Jack was also active in the Walker Epps Progressors Sunday School class, where he built lasting friendships and lived out his faith through service and fellowship.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his brother, Rex Outlaw; his sister, Lois VanHorn of Panama City; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jack’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his caregiver, Felicia Smith, whose compassionate care kept him active and honored the bond he shared with Joy. In time, Felicia was joined by Shannon, whose kindness brought great comfort. The family is also deeply grateful to the staff of VITAS Hospice, along with friends and neighbors, for their unwavering support during Jack’s final days.