Jackie Enright

John F. Enright, lovingly known as “Jackie” to his family and friends, peacefully passed away on August 11, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family, following an incredibly courageous battle with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Throughout his journey, Jack faced each day with remarkable strength and determination, supported by the family he loved more than anything in this world.

Born on March 11, 1969, and raised in South Philadelphia, Jack attended St. Richard Grade School and graduated from St. John Neumann High School, Class of 1987. He went on to attend trade school and proudly earned his Master Plumber Certificate. Jack began his career working locally for several independent plumbers before joining the Philadelphia Housing Authority. He later worked with Operating Engineers Local 835 at the University of Pennsylvania, where he remained a hardworking and respected member of his profession.

Jack was a proud South Philadelphian and loved everything about New Year’s Day and the Mummers Parade. For many years, he was a member of Satin Slipper NYB, where he formed friendships that would last a lifetime. More recently, he proudly paraded with O’Malley NYA, where one of his greatest joys was marching alongside his daughters.

Above all else, Jack was truly a “#1 Girls Dad.” Shannon and Katie were his pride and joy, and there was nothing he would not do for his girls. He was their biggest fan, strongest supporter, loudest cheerleader, and constant protector. Whether it was a theater show, softball game or tournament, dance recital, or any other special moment in their lives, Dad was there. He was present, proud, and always cheering them on.

Together as a family, they created countless treasured memories traveling to Disney, enjoying time in North Wildwood, and visiting Ireland, which Jack affectionately referred to as “the motherland of Guinness.” Those trips, filled with laughter, stories, and family togetherness, became memories that will forever remain close to their hearts.

Jack’s Irish heritage was a tremendous source of pride throughout his life. One of his greatest passions was playing the bagpipes. He proudly played with the Gloucester City and 2nd Street Irish Society Pipes and Drums, sharing his love of Irish music, tradition, and fellowship with so many others. Jack was an Irishman through and through and was proud of the heritage and traditions he passed along to his family.

Those fortunate enough to know Jack will remember a great man with a warm and welcoming smile, a gracious heart, and an unwavering loyalty to the people he loved. He was the protector of his family—the person they could depend upon no matter the circumstances. Loving, caring, generous, hardworking, and devoted, Jack valued his family and friendships above all else.

Even as young-onset Alzheimer’s began to change so much, it could never change the love Jack had given throughout his lifetime or erase the impact he made on those around him. His courageous fight became another testament to his strength, while his family remained faithfully beside him every step of the way. The disease may have challenged him, but it will never define the husband, father, brother, uncle, friend, proud Irishman, and wonderful man Jack was.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Elizabeth Jane (nee: Stumm) Enright Sr.; his brother, Michael T. Enright Jr.; and his mother-in-law, Anna Close.

He is the beloved husband and best friend of 26 wonderful years to Christy (nee: Close) Enright and the devoted and loving father of Shannon and Katie. He is the dearest brother of Betty Jane (Frank) Connelly; son-in-law of Jack Close; special nephew of Michele (Steven) Vitanza; and brother-in-law of Jacqueline McLaughlin. Jack will also be deeply missed by his aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong friends, fellow Mummers, and his extended Irish and piping communities.

Relatives, friends, Mummers, members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Gloucester City and Irish Society Pipes and Drums, and all those whose lives were touched by Jack are invited to his visitation on Monday, August 17, 2026, from 8:30 to 11:00 AM at the Church of St. Maria Goretti, 321 Orchard Ave., Runnemede, NJ 08078. His Funeral Mass will follow at 11:15 AM. Burial will take place in New St. Mary Cemetery.

In Jack’s memory, his family is in the process of establishing a foundation dedicated to assisting families affected by young-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Having experienced firsthand the tremendous challenges this disease brings to individuals and those who love and care for them, the Enright family hopes to turn Jack’s courageous journey into a source of help, compassion, and support for others walking a similar road. Donations toward the creation of this fund may be made directly to the family as they work to establish this meaningful cause in Jack’s honor.

Jack fought courageously, loved deeply, and lived proudly. His greatest legacy will forever be the family he protected, the daughters he adored, the friendships he treasured, and the countless memories he leaves behind.