Jack Ray McConnaughey, one of five children of Clarence and June (Weddle) McConnaughey, was born April 17, 1943, in Peru, Nebraska. He received his formal education through high school in Peru.

Jack married Linda Ann Beetem in 1963, and their union was blessed with three sons: Mark, David, and Brian. The couple later divorced. On July 2, 1999, Jack was united in marriage to Phyllis Maxine (Snethen) Knople in Plattsmouth, Nebraska. With this union Jack gained two daughters, Vicki and Brenda.

Jack was foremost a farmer throughout his life and was proud to use all antique tractors and an antique combine. He had a deep love of the land and always said “You never own your land; you are just a caretaker for God”.

Jack’s first job off the farm was in West Lake Quarries operating a Euclid truck and bulldozer. He later owned his own dump truck and ‘dozer. He hauled many, many loads of rock for driveways and did conservation work all over Nemaha County and surrounding counties.

In addition to his affection for his farm, Jack loved restoring antique 2-cylinder tractors. He could take one apart, have all the parts in buckets, and put it back together so it ran better than ever. He enjoyed being outdoors fishing, hunting particularly coyotes), and working with his two Blue Heelers. He was one of the first members of Auburn Eagles Aerie #3767 and belonged to the Mid-State Antique Tractor Association.

Jack passed away Monday, March 16, 2026, after being rushed to the Namaha County Hospital in Auburn, Nebraska just a month and a day prior to his 83rd birthday. He was preceded by his son Mark, first wife Linda, and stepdaughter Brenda.

Those left to remember Jack with love include his wife Phyllis; sons and daughters-in-law David of Auburn, Brian and Brook of Plattsmouth, Jodie of Auburn; stepdaughter Vicki (Alan) Lacy of Bellevue; grandchildren Kelby, Joel (Dani), Dylan, Blake, Brityn; great-grandchildren Raegan, Clayton, Anna Rae; brother and sister-in-law Clarence, Jr. and April of Auburn; sisters Doris Rempe of Lawrence, NE, Louann McConnaughey of Auburn; other relatives and friends.

Jack’s wishes were to be cremated with no services. He has gone fishin!  Burial of ashes will take place at a later date in Sheridan West Cemetery at Auburn.

Memorials are suggested to the family for later designation.