Passed peacefully away at home in St. John's on March 18th, 2016, Jack Jeffries Strong at the age of 88. Predeceased by his wife Eileen, father James Strong, mother Elizabeth Strong and sisters Louisa Russell and Eva Spindler. Jack had a loving family, sons Jim (Jill Diamond) and Andrew (Anne Marie Powers), granddaughters Kelly (Bryan Morgan), Sarah (Conrad, Matt and Brooke Vincent) and Melissa, as well as special friend Vera Dupree (and family). Jack will also be remembered fondly by a large circle of friends, as well as relatives in England. Born in Lowestoft, Suffolk, England, Jack grew up during the Depression and at the age of 16 joined the Merchant Navy and went on to study to become a Captain. In 1964 he accepted a job at the College of Fisheries (now the Marine Institute) in St. John's, where he worked for 20 years before retiring. He was an active volunteer with St. Augustine's Parish and with many organizations throughout his life, such as The Newfoundland Horticultural Society, Peter Pan Lawn Bowling Association and The Merchant Navy Veterans Association. Jack was an ardent gardener and wrote a gardening column with The Telegram for over 27 years. He had a passion for travelling and exploring the world, which began as a young seaman and continued throughout his life with Eileen and family, and then in later years with Vera. His annual salmon fishing trip with his sons was a cherished tradition. He was a very loving husband, father and grandfather and will be dearly remembered for his sense of humor, love of life and kind soul. As per Jack's wishes, there will be no visitation and cremation has taken place. A celebration of Jack's life will take place at 10 am on March 28th, 2016, at St. Augustine's Anglican Church, Westerland Road, St. John's. No flowers by request. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Health Care Foundation or a charity of one's choice. To sign the guest book or share your memories of Jack (J.J.), please visit www.carnells.com.