Obituary of John Waters Duckett

John Waters Duckett, Jr. (“Jack”), 87 of Freehold Township died February, 19, 2015. Mr. Duckett was born June 10, 1927 in Texas, the son of John W. and Eva C. Duckett. He grew up in Pelham Manor, New York and Cranbury, New Jersey. A graduate of the Peddie School in 1945, Jack was awarded an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. After completing his basic training, he resigned from the Navy and acquired a degree in Animal Husbandry from the Rutgers Agricultural College. After a time of working on a farm, Mr. Duckett moved to Freehold, New Jersey to fill the job of marketer for Sinclair Oil Company. It was at this time he met his wife-to-be, Carolyn A. Smythe. They married in March of 1958 and lived in the Freehold area thereafter. Mr. Duckett became the founder of Duckett and Laird Oil Company, in 1964 with his partner, Vernon Laird. This business flourishes today as a division of Lawes Coal Company, Inc. He retired in 1992. Jack was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Freehold. He served his church on each of its major boards, and was Church Treasurer for many years. His financial talents were also used as Treasurer for the Open Door food pantry. In his spare time, John enjoyed the beauty and challenges of nature. He and his wife learned to enjoy camping in many parts of the country. It was hard for him to pass-up a good auction, flea market or garage sale. Jack’s quick wit and willingness to help others will be missed by all who knew him. He was predeceased by his parents and his son, John Edward Duckett. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; several cousins and friends. Friends are invited to share in a memorial service at the First Baptist Church, 81 West Main Street, Freehold on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 1:30 P.M. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in Jack’s memory to the Abiding Memorial Fund at the above mentioned church, or to the Applewood Residents Fund at 1 Applewood Drive, Freehold, NJ 07728. Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold is in charge of arrangements.