Reverend John Forrest Seibert

Remembering Reverend Jack (John Forrest) Seibert Reverend Jack Seibert, with his wife of 68 years, Joan Seibert served God through ministry and missions. The message that he stressed was one of giving thanks to God for grace unmerited and gratitude for God's many blessings, often expressed through caring relationships with family and friends. Jack was born in June, 1925, and grew up in Carbondale Illinois. He served in the Army in WWII in Combat Infantry as a radio operator/messenger. He was in Germany, France, and ultimately in the Philippine Islands at the end of the war. He was also called up from the reserves for the Korean War. He trained at Parks Air College in aviation mechanics and later at Southern Illinois University in industrial education , where he met Joan. Jack and Joan were married in 1950. Jack went to Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary and San Francisco Theological Seminary where he received his Master of Divinity in 1954. Jack was ordained in the First Presbyterian Church in Carbondale. Jack and Joan spent 1954 to 1957 serving in National Missions of the Presbyterian Church in Anchorage, Alaska. In 1958 they began their mission service at the Sangli Industrial School in Sangli, Maharashtra, India. The Sangli Industrial School trained young men in mechanics, carpentry and tailoring. They served in India until 1975. After returning from India, Jack and Joan continued to serve full time in two Presbyterian churches in Salem/Fosterburg, Illinois. After retiring Jack and Joan continued to serve with short term assignments in Yehiwot Berhan School in Ethiopia and a church in Whiteside Missouri. They ultimately moved back to Jack's hometown of Carbondale, Illinois and served as interim duty in nearby churches of Carterville, Herrin, and Benton churches. Jack and Joan retired in 2005 after 50 years of mission and ministry together. They came to Penney Retirement Community in February of 2006 and enjoyed the friendships of this community and home. Jack is survived by his wife, Joan. Their children and spouses are Mark & Betsy, Karl & Gyni, and Ann. Donations may be given to the Presbyterian Mission Support (www.PresbyterianMission.org), Marion Medical Mission (www.MMMwater.org) or other service missions of your choosing. Arrangements under the care of Helm-Gallagher Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1811 Idlewild, SR 16, Green Cove Springs, Florida 32043. 904-284-9696. www.helmgallagherfh.com