Jack Hayes Kimbler
1934-2020
Jackie Hayes Kimbler, age 86, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. Jack was born August 9, 1934 in Columbia, Adair County, Kentucky to Edgar Hayes and Ruby Roy Kimbler. Jack was the first of six children. He enlisted in the Marines after graduating. While on leave back home, Jack met the companion and love of his life, his wife, Lila Jane Claywell. After marriage, they established a home in Cherry Point, NC, while finishing his Marine commitment. In August of 1958, they welcomed a son, Gregory Hayes Kimbler. After his service, Jack moved his family to Denver, Colorado to study the Science of Chiropractic Medicine. After graduation, with degree in hand, Jack moved his family back to Falmouth, Kentucky, to establish a Chiropractic practice. In November of 1961, Jack and Lila had their second son, Bradley Allen Kimbler. In the mid 1960's, Jack made the decision of his life, and started working for Investors Diversified Services (IDS), now known as Ameriprise Financial. While there he was recognized with many awards and achievements. In January 1966, Jack and Lila, welcomed their third child and only daughter, Staci Ann Kimbler Curry. In 1969, after receiving a promotion to District Manager, Jack moved his family to Shreveport, Louisiana. In 1976, after being promoted to Regional manager, Jack made his final family move and relocated to Edmond, OK.
Jack had three main causes he actively pursued; first, being the best parent, moral compass and supporter of his family; second he was actively involved with his church, First Baptist Church of Edmond, and gladly volunteered his time, serving in a variety of roles, from Deacon, Sunday School Director, building committees and financial causes; and finally, he was a supporter of the Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children (OBHC), serving on various committees and eventually serving on the Board of Directors. Due to his fund-raising efforts while serving on the Board of Directors, Jack and Lila were honored and recognized by the naming of the Kimbler Cottage at Boys Ranch Town in Edmond, OK. Jack was involved in civic and philanthropic organizations, from Jaycees, Kiwanis , Shriners, and serving as Boy Scout Scoutmaster of Troop 7 in Shreveport, LA.
Jack was interested in coin and stamp collecting, traveling the world, and his personal goal was visiting all United States National Parks, a feat he completed in 2015. Jack was also a founding member of the Board for ASTEC Charter Schools.
Jack, a 44-year resident of Edmond, OK was preceded in death by his father and mother, two younger brothers, Bobbie Edward and Joseph Henry. Jack is survived by his wife of 65 years, Lila Jane Claywell Kimbler; children, Gregory Hayes Kimbler, of Aubrey, TX; Bradley Allen Kimbler (Monica), of Edmond, OK; Staci Ann Kimbler Curry (Scott), of Edmond, OK; grandchildren, Kelsi Jo Kimbler Martinez, Kendyl Hays Kimbler, Braden Douglas Curry (Kennedy), Levi Ryan Kimbler (Cassie), Morgan Elaine Curry, Faith Elizabeth Kimbler, Claywell Hayes Kimbler, and Annabelle Grace Kimbler; and one greatgrandchild, Andrew Kimbler; siblings. Delcia Mae Kimbler Cook, Faye Edith Kimbler Simpson, and Harry Allen Kimbler, and sisters-in-laws, Gladys Miller Kimbler and Jewel Bryant Kimbler, and a host of in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed.
Jack was well loved and highly respected by all those who came in contact with him. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Oklahoma Baptist Homes for Children or the First Baptist Church of Edmond Building Fund.
Family will greet friends at Matthews Funeral Home, on Thursday, August 20, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM. Funeral Services will be held Friday, August 21st at Edmond's First Baptist Church, 1300 E. 33 rd St., at 10:00 AM. Graveside Service will be at the Freedom Separate Baptist Church, 576 Freedom Church, Columbia, KY 42642. A livestream of the service will be available at https://www.fbcedmond.org/livestream .