John “Jack” Birt Wyrie, a special husband, father, Papa, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on September 14, 2025, in Fairhope, Alabama. He was 81.
Born on August 20, 1944, in New Castle, Pennsylvania, Jack was the son of the late Glenn Birt and Dorothy Therese (Palko) Wyrie. From an early age, Jack’s love of baseball was evident, as he played for Union High School, graduating in 1962. He went on to earn his degree from Youngstown State University in 1968.
In 1966, Jack married the love of his life, Pauline Matey. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, family, and community. After moving to New Philadelphia, Ohio, they raised their family and became deeply involved in the town they came to call home.
Jack began his career at General Electric and later served as CEO of Invincible Vacuum Corporation in Dover. He finished his professional life as General Manager of Catalyst Systems in Gnadenhutten, retiring in 2012.
A passionate supporter of the New Phila Quakers, Jack was a fixture in the bleachers during football and basketball seasons. He was a longtime member of the Quaker Club and played a key role in the construction of the locker room at Woody Hayes Stadium in 1984. He coached Little League; timed swim meets for the Tuscarawas County YMCA Big Orange and proudly traveled to support the Marching Quakers. Jack was a devoted father and tireless cheerleader.
Saturdays were for the Ohio State Buckeyes, and Sundays for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also followed the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cleveland Indians with enthusiasm.
Jack gave generously of his time to the New Philadelphia Elks, Dover Jaycees, and Dover Rotary Club, among many other local organizations. Jack and his family were members of Sacred Heart Church in New Philadelphia. He and Pauline cherished their time at Atwood Lake, where Jack served as Commodore of the Atwood Yacht Club in 2007.
In retirement, Jack and Pauline moved south to Alabama not only to be near their family, but to enjoy the beach and leave the snow shovels behind. They never missed a chance to throw a party and celebrate life. Their home was often filled with joy, caring, and the warmth of family and friends. Jack continued to enjoy local culture and community events, making new friends and memories in Fairhope.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, and his beloved wife, Pauline. He is survived by his daughter, Deanna (Tom) Brennan of Spanish Fort, Alabama; his son, Darren (Michelle) Wyrie of Gainesville, Georgia; grandchildren, Erica Brennan of Daphne, Alabama, Jared Brennan of Spanish Fort, Alabama, and Zachary (Alicia) Wyrie of New Philadelphia, Ohio; and great-granddaughters, Lana and Nova Wyrie. He will also be deeply missed by his close companion and friend of ten years, Meg Warrrington of Fairhope, Alabama.
A memorial service for Jack will be held at Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road in Daphne, AL, on Saturday September 27, 2025. Family will receive visitors from 10:00AM until 11:00AM with the service to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following:
In Memory of Jack Wyrie
C/O The Quaker Club
P.O. Box 202, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663
A celebration of life is being planned in New Philadelphia, Ohio at a later date.
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
So sorry to hear of the passing of cousin Jack. Of course we called him wire-patch. Don’t know how he got that name but I’m sure somebody knows. The three Kassi boys and cousin Jack and Jim were more like brothers than cousins. Too many stories to relate here but many good times were had at my Mom and Dads house in New Castle. We will miss you wire-patch. RIP
We are so sorry to learn of Jack’s passing. We had many fun times together at Atwood Yacht Club. They were a great couple and we enjoyed our years of friendship with them. Much sympathy to his children and grandchildren. Wishing you peace as you grieve his passing. George and Pippa Milburn
Jack was a great, longtime friend who will be missed. Condolences to the family.
So sorry to hear of Jacks passing. He was a long time friend and a wonderful kind soul. His mother worked for our family in the grocery store “Rocky’s Market “ for many years and his family was like our family. May he Rest In Peace 🙏❤️
I am saddened to learn that Jack has passed. I met him and Pauline when they moved to Fairhope. They could throw a party! When Pauline left us, Jack and I talked often. We shared our relationship at Bouches Cigars with our many friends. Jack joins Pauline in heaven.
Condolences to his family and friends. He was an Atwood Yacht Club friend.
Harry Horstman AYC Commodore 2002
Jack & Pauline were such great friends while we were in New Philadelphia.
Spent great times with them on vacation in Hilton Head and loving their excitement for life and all that they did together. Our prayers are with the family and will always remember Jack’s bright smile.
Sad to think our friend and neighbor has passed over the last 7 years got to know Jack and his family just good people he will be missed but never forgotten rest well my friend
We had so many good times with Jack and Pauline. Go Steelers and Rest in peace Jack.
Very sad to hear that this amazing man has passed. Uncle Jack was always so kind to me and I always enjoyed visiting him, Pauline and Dorothy in New Philly. I’ve nothing but good memories of your family. Love to all of you
Sorry to learn of Jack’s passing.
Many fond memories over the years at Atwood Lake Yacht Club.
Lots of laughs and stories.
Even had a chance to visit their beautiful home in Alabama. My sympathy to his family and friends! One of the “good” ones will be missed❤️🙏❤️
We had so many good times with Jack and Pauline at the Atwood Yacht Club. So sorry to hear of Jack’s passing but he will be with his beloved wife , Pauline. Rest in peace Jack. You will be missed. God love you.🙏🙏
Jack was a great friend from our college days at YSU. My wife and I double dated with Jack and his wife (at that time, she was his girlfriend). We shared some accounting classes together and graduated the same year. He was a Facebook friend, but I was unaware of his Illness. So, I was greatly saddened to see this news. God bless you, Jack!
Our deepest sympathy to Jack’s family. He was a great guy and we enjoyed times we spent with him and Pauline. I also enjoyed teaching his children. (Susan)
Johnny and Susan Davis
Hugs and prayers to the Family and Friends.
We had many years of good times at Atwood Yacht Club together! Rest in Peace Friend