Floyd Benjamin "Benny" Jacks, a skilled mechanic and innovative inventor, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on February 10, 2025. Born on May 12, 1942, in rural Platte County to F.B. and Clara Beth Jacks, Benny was raised on a farm where he learned the value of hard work and perseverance. He was the keeper of many treasured family stories, ensuring that the legacy of his loved ones endured through generations.
Benny shared a lifelong love with his wife, Cheryl Galloway Jacks, whom he had known since childhood. This April would have marked their 60th wedding anniversary, a testament to their deep and enduring bond. They joyfully welcomed their only child, David, to the union in 1969. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories.
He was a talented diesel mechanic who dedicated many years of service to Kaw transport. His ingenuity led to the invention of a bushing extractor/installer, a groundbreaking tool that streamlined the process of replacing worn-out bushings without the need to deconstruct an entire engine. He patented this device in 1991, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
Benny was known for his straightforward nature and no-nonsense approach to life. Though he may not have been one for sentimentality, his actions spoke volumes about his deep commitment to family and hard work. He took pride in his craftsmanship and valued honesty and integrity above all else. Benny was nearly religious about his daily routines, approaching each task with unwavering discipline and a steadfast commitment to doing things the right way…his way.
In addition to his mechanical expertise, Benny was a skilled leather craftsman and marksman. He spent countless hours perfecting his craft, creating leather goods with precision and skill. His love of marksmanship was evident in his dedication to honing his abilities and teaching his son, David, how to shoot.
Upon retiring from mechanic work, Benny devoted himself to his greatest joy—being a grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, Sam and Donna Sue, and his grandnephew, Austin.
He had a distinctive growl of a voice that the kids and adults all loved to imitate, a unique trait that brought laughter and fond memories to those around him. Benny’s storytelling will be missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind his wife, Cheryl; his son, David; grandchildren Sam (Charlie) and Donna Sue (Eric); niece Natalie (Scott) and her son Austin (Aryanna); his beloved cousin, Helen “Feisty” Dye; and countless friends and family members who were fortunate to share in his life.
A memorial service will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Country Home, Liberty MO on 2/20/25 at 2pm to celebrate Benny’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Eye Foundation of Kansas City, supporting those who are healing children who suffer from eye malignancies as Benny did.
