John "Jack" Race Sr.

April 22, 1941 - July 30, 2019

On July 30, 2019, John (Jack) C. Race, Sr., loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle passed away at the age of 78, at St. Peter’s Hospital, fighting a courageous battle with cancer. Jack was born April 22, 1941 in Hudson, NY to Julian C and Anna (Bray) Race. Jack attended and graduated from St. Mary’s Academy in Hudson in 1960. A JACK OF ALL TRADES, he was at his best in front of the microphone. After attending the National Academy of Broadcasting in Washington D.C., Jack started his 15 year career as the News Director for WHUC, and the originator of “Party Line”. Jack finished his career in 2002, after retiring from the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office where he served 15 years as the Communications Sargent and Public Information Officer. Even in retirement, Jack kept busy with numerous part-time jobs including the Columbia County District Attorney’s Office and Assessor for the Town of Claverack. Jack and Carole enjoyed the winter months in Florida, and Jack continued to work part-time for Charlotte County where he enriched the experience for the fans of the Tampa Bay Ray's during Spring Training. In appreciation of his dedication, Jack was honored with a “Jack Race” day in 2015 and the Golden Glove Award in 2016. When asked recently about his favorite job, the Rays, of course. Jack always gave back to his community. He was a volunteer firefighter at JW Rogers Hose, and co-chair of the Thank A Vet Day in Claverack. He was also the coordinator of a Toy Drive that benefited the children who lost everything in Breezy Point due to Super Storm Sandy. He also coordinated the Town of Claverack 225th Anniversary Parade, and the announcer for the Hudson Firemen’s Parade. As a member of the Claverack Republican Club, he coordinated Music-In-The Park, for several years. Jack leaves behind his wife of 37 years, Carole, a son John C. Race Jr. (JR), and a daughter Melinda Race (Mindy), three grandchildren Brittney, Tanner, and Hannah, one great-granddaughter Alayah, along with several nieces and nephews. He is one of seven children and is survived by his sister Mary Lou and her husband Timothy Race. Four sisters Geraldine Gritmon, Ellen Cooper, Jean Gaudette, and Anne DeSimone, along with one brother Hugh Race, predeceased him. Husband, Dad, and Grandpa – You will be dearly missed. Visitation will be Monday, August 5, 2019 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson. A funeral service will begin at 7:00 pm.