Jack C. Mott

Jack C. Mott, age 90, died March 25^th as the results of burns sustained February 24^th while burning brush. Community members, especially colleagues Roger Williams and John Lumsden, came to his rescue.

Jack Mott was born in Burghill, Ohio, in 1926, to Harvey C. and Alice Butterbaugh Mott. Daughter, “Kris” Mott Croslin and great granddaughter Piper Jean Needham as well as three sisters, Thelmae Bell, Dorthea Digrius and Ruth Oakes and two brothers, Clifford Mott and Robert Mott, predeceased him.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Helen, a son William H. Mott of Gainesville, daughter Loretta (Greg) Martin of Statham, daughter Paula (Angelo) Lembo of Clarkesville and Cleveland and son-in-law Paul Croslin of Cleveland as well as 8 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Following Jack Mott’s service in the U.S. Marine Corp in the South Pacific during World War II, he became an electrical engineer. In 1988 he retired as Line Service Supervisor, Clearwater Division of Florida Power Corporation. He became a certified fire fighter in 1989 with White County Volunteer Station #3. He helped convert the old cannery into a fire station, served as a first responder and also as a member of the search and rescue team. Jack also served as a member of the White County Water Authority in its formative years. Jack enjoyed carpentry, cabinet making and wood craft projects and gave generously of his works.

As a founding member of Sautee Nacoochee Community Association and a dedicated volunteer, he was awarded Honorary Member status in appreciation for his efforts in restoring the old Nacoochee School and Gymnasium. In 2016 the Soque Garden Club planted a dogwood tree at SNCA in honor of the Mott family’s community contributions. In 2015 Jack and Helen deeded a portion of their adjoining property to SNCA; it is the site of a white oak tree, evaluated by Ted Doll and Tom Hutto of the Georgia Heritage Tree Foundation to probably be the largest and oldest white oak in White County. The giving of this tree and property were intended as an atonement to the Cherokee Nation which was forced to endure the Trail of Tears. It is hoped that the tree and surrounding area will be a place of reflection and meditation.

A memorial service is being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to SNCA Heritage Tree Project, White County Volunteer Fire Station #3 or a charity of your choice.

A celebration of Jack‘s life will be held at a later date service information will follow.

For those wishing to share a memory or leave a condolence you can do so by going to www.alexander-funeral.com

Alexander Funeral Home of Cleveland is in charge of arrangements. 706-865-1500 www.alexander-funeral.com