Jack Carlton Tapp

Jack Carlton Tapp, Maj. (Ret. US ARMY), 82, of Patrick Springs, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025 at the Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

Born in Durham, North Carolina, on July 14, 1942, Jack joined the Army National Guard in February 1961. He went on active duty with the Army to become an officer. Continuing his service, he proceeded to flight school to become a pilot. Retiring in 1985 after earning the rank of Major, he received many citations of medals. Some included the Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross with 2 Oak Bronze Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal, Bronze Star with Oak Silver Leaf Cluster, and Air Medal with “V” device with numeral 17. Once home, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, he joined the Orange County Sheriff's Department for 11 years. During his time with the Sheriff’s department, he was a Deputy and then was promoted to Investigator. After his second retirement, he continued working on his farm, where he has been passing on his lifelong knowledge of farming and beekeeping. Jack loved telling tales of his past, was proud of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and was elated to be part of the local VFW 7800.

Jack is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Barbara Tapp; his three children Carlton Tapp (Laura), Thao Nguyen (Marcelino), and Brian Tapp (Dee); his five grandchildren, Noemi (Michael), Joshua (Skye), Michelle (Thomas), Sarah (Javier), and Joanna; and his 4 great grandchildren Hezekiah (8), Gideon (6), Emilia (6), and Fairen (6).

Jack will be remembered for his love of family and dedication to his communities, and as a hero to those he served with. His storytelling was enjoyable and a gift to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Local VFW7800, where Jack was a lifelong member.

A ceremony will be held at his home in Patrick Springs, Virginia, on April 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of life. Moody Funeral Home in Stuart has been entrusted with the services, and online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservcies.com.