John “Jack” Flynn, age 83, passed away on August 21, 2026 in Syracuse, NY. Jack was born on June 22, 1943 in Providence, RI to John “Frank” Flynn and Carmen Helen Staehly. In addition to his parents, Jack was predeceased by his cherished wife of 49 years Maureen “Renee” Flynn, his dear friend and brother-in-law Dr. Joseph C Fischer and his sister Patricia Alexander. Jack is survived by his niece Kelly Alexander Lopresto (Charles) of Falmouth, MA; devoted sister-in-law Kathleen Flannery Fischer of Syracuse, NY; nephews and niece Dr. John Fischer (Dr. Rebecca) of Villanova, PA, Christopher Fischer (Saeger) of Portsmouth, NH, Brian Fischer (Leanna) of Skaneateles, NY, Maureen Fischer Donovan (Dennis) of Syracuse, NY, and William Fischer (Elizabeth) of Bronxville, NY; and many grandnieces and grandnephews.

Jack grew up in Providence and spent summers swimming and clamming on his beloved Cape Cod. In high school, his family relocated to Syracuse and he attended Most Holy Rosary, where he notably met his future wife and played varsity baseball and basketball, competing in in the infamous parochial league. After high school, Jack returned to the Ocean State to attend Providence College, while also participating in the ROTC program. He went on to serve with distinction in the US Army from 1965-1969 first as a Lieutenant and then a Captain.

In the army, Jack pursued his lifelong interest in aviation as a Huey Helicopter pilot in Quinn Yan Vietnam. He logged 1150 hours flying resupply and combat artillery missions. He was a member of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association and was awarded the Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal nine times for his impressive accumulated flight hours and brave service.

After Vietnam, Jack returned to New York to marry his high school sweetheart, Renee. Jack then obtained his MBA at Syracuse University and began a long and distinguished career in the insurance industry. Jack first worked at Met Life and went on to establish the Carmody Insurance Agency in Auburn where he worked until retirement in 2019. In retirement, Jack and Renee spent their time entertaining and socializing with friends and neighbors and could be found poolside in Ft. Myers, FL during winters.

Jack was a gregarious soul blessed with a sharp mind and the gift of gab. He read the Wall Street Journal daily, was an avid puzzler (both Sudoku and crosswords) and was a fierce Pitch competitor. He was happiest surrounded by friends and family. Jack was a generous man and became a dutiful caregiver to his mother-in-law Dorothy Flannery after she was widowed and then a pivotal support to Kathy and his nephews and niece. To them, Jack (UFJ for those in the know) was a father figure, confidant and best friend. He provided sage advice and counsel, helped with house hunts and moves, and witnessed and supported numerous rites of passage, even walking Maureen down the aisle. Phone calls were always answered with a bright greeting of “Monsieur,” and his stories and boisterous laugh are treasured memories. Jack loved life’s simple pleasures, like a strong cup of coffee and hearty breakfast, a cigarette, a cocktail (or two), classical music, and most of all a spirited debate. Special Thanks go to Mary Anne Kelley whose help was instrumental in ensuring Jack was able to stay in his home.

Calling hours will be on Friday, September 4th at Edward J Ryan Funeral Home from 3-5:30pm with a service to follow immediatly at 5:30PM. Burial will be private. 

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to St. Patrick’s Church 216 North Lowell Ave Syracuse, NY 13204.