July 23, 1960 �" May 2, 2016
Jack, aka "Dobbin" to his family, left to spread his smile, and joyful personality to another world in the early morning hours of May 2. His husband of 18-plus wonderful years, Christopher Auzston, was at his side as he passed at home. It was a blessing to be his caretaker, and at his side during his most intimate time. Jack defined dignity in his death.
Jack came to San Francisco in 1982 from Fitzgerald, Georgia. He met his late partner, Bruce Eric Maher, who passed in 1997. Jack met Chris via online HIV-positive Personal Postings in February 1998. We met for our first date March 12, fell in love, became inseparable, and eloped to Hawaii for our first wedding on July 19, 1998. Thanks to the Hawaii Legislature, the wedding would not be recognized. Jack was a waiter at Mama's and Harris's restaurants, and a manager at Boudin Bakery at Fisherman's Wharf.
In November 2001, we moved to Guerneville, and after California legalized marriage, we re-married on our 10-year anniversary, July 19, 2008, on the back deck of our home, supported by several close friends. Jack volunteered for Forgotten Felines of Sonoma County, the Rio Nido Sunrise Community Garden, and at Curtain Call Theatre. In addition to his husband, Jack is survived by their four fur-kids; his sisters, Linda McCook and Connie Johns, of Fitzgerald; and Ann Brady of Florida; and brother, Andy, of Valdosta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Lillian; and brothers Herman and Ricky.
Jack was always a friendly light going to each person with a smile, and an ability to make them feel better about themselves. "RIP my sweetheart, I love you to the moon and back!" A remembrance gathering is being planned.