Obituary – Dr. Jack Pirkle
Sunday, November 2, 2025

On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, the Lord called Jack Pirkle home after a battle with cancer. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Trinity United Methodist Church. Reverend Chris Hester will officiate the service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church. Interment will follow the service in the church cemetery.
Born in Duluth, Georgia Jack was raised in Dacula, Georgia before ultimately finding a home in north Hall. Jack attended Central Gwinnett High School before attending Young Harris College and later Lagrange College. After receiving his master’s and specialist degree at the University of Georgia, Jack ultimately earned a doctorate in education from Nova Southeastern.
Jack was known among much of Hall County having served as the principal of East Hall High School and later West Hall High School. It was not an uncommon event for Jack to be greeted by past students upon whom Jack had left an impression.
Jack is preceded in death by his father and mother John Hoyt Pirkle, Dorothy Frances Allen Pirkle and his brother John Donald Pirkle.
Jack is survived by his wife of 56 years Patricia "Patti" Swindel Pirkle, his children Ashley Durham (Larry), Allison Pirkle Ellis (Mark), Stephen Shawn Pirkle, his grandchildren Colby Wade Ellis, Grace Elizabeth Pirkle, Dillion Jack Pirkle, William Clyde Durham, and his sister Joan Pirkle Seaton, and various nieces and nephews.
Jack was involved in two church choirs in his adult life-Ivy Creek Baptist Church and Trinity United Methodist Church-congregations Jack considered an extension of his family. Jack was an avid equestrian, having been involved in Tennessee Walking Horses his entire life, earning several National and International titles and a Reserve World Championship at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. He proudly owned the 2020 Five and Under Trail Pleasure World Grand Champion, "Self Made Money" who was under the direction of Jessica Hlebak.
Upon retiring from his career in education, Jack spoiled his grandchildren and enjoyed sitting on his porch. W. R. Strickland & Sons, Clermont, Ga.
More Stories |
-
Read More
-
Read More
-
Reminder: Don’t miss your chance to make your voice count in The 44th Annual Walking Horse Report Readers’ Choice! Cast your votes by Monday, November 24, 2025 to be included in this year’s results. Everyone’s welcome to vote—no membership required.
Read More
-
The Walking Horse Report recently learned of the passing of trainer Judy Martin. A full obituary will be posted when made available. We extend our thoughts and prayers to all who loved her.
Read More
-
Read More
-
Taylor LeGate, a lifelong member of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and a World Champion exhibitor, is excited to bring her genuine passion for the Walking Horse to her new role with The Walking Horse Report.
Read More
-
Read More
-
Night Twister was laid to rest on November 5, 2025, at the age of 27. Sired by Pusher’s Twist A Bout and out of Sweet Crowder Lue, he was purchased as a two-year-old by Ann Bailey and began his show career under the guidance of Ann and trainer Steve Aymett.
Read More
-
The deadline to report high point corrections is November 28, 2025. Please take a moment to review your records and send any corrections.
Read More
-
On Wednesday, October 29, 2025, the Lord called Jack Pirkle home after a battle with cancer. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., Trinity United Methodist Church. Reverend Chris Hester will officiate the service.
Read More
|