Jack R. Gifford

Jack R. Gifford, 95, of Camillus, passed away on Saturday, April 22, 2023. Born in Syracuse, he was the son of Charles and Renetta (Miller) Gifford. Jack was a graduate of Solvay High School and a U.S. Army veteran. Under the guidance of his father, he learned the craft of house-building carpentry.

On October 15, 1949, Jack married Joanne Norris, the love of his life. He and Joanne spent their married lives in Fairmount and Camillus. Jack was a building contractor of residential and commercial construction, and the owner of Gifford Home Builders. Upon retirement, he and Joanne purchased a winter home at Lake Fairways in North Fort Myers, FL.

Besides spending time with his family and friends, Jack’s greatest passions were singing, music, playing golf, and following Syracuse University sports. He was an extremely skilled carpenter, and he frequently volunteered his time assisting others with his talents.

A resting elder of Robinson Memorial Presbyterian Church, Jack served as a trustee and sang in the choir for seventy years. He was also a congregant of First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers, where he also sang in the choir. Jack was an active member and leader with the Syracuse Home Builders Association, Camillus Zoning Board of Appeals, Solvay Geddes Kiwanis Club, Fort Myers Elks, Westvale Golf Club, and Camelot Homeowners Association. Both he and Joanne were founding members of the South West Interfaith Group.

Jack was predeceased by his wife, Joanne, in 2021; and son, Jon, in 2003. 

Surviving are his sons, James (Barbara) of DeWitt, Jeffrey (Charlene) of Williamsville, and Joseph (Allyn) of Greer, SC; grandchildren, Jessica, Daniel, Jenna (Timothy) Sullivan, Jacklyn (Kevin) Moffitt, Maggie, and Emily; and great-grandchildren, Shane Sullivan and Brooke Moffitt.

Relatives and friends may call Thursday, May 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.

A funeral service will be held Friday, May 5 at 11 a.m. in Robinson Elmwood United Church, Syracuse.

Jack will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.