Jack Borden, 101
 "I love the law."

      “No gifts, please,” Jack announced beforehand. “The girls can give me hugs, and there’ll be someone to shake everyone’s hand.”  Jack’s bright blue eyes sparkle with merriment as he speaks.  Here is a man whose life has been well lived, and who clearly enjoys being an inspiration and a role model to others.

       About his long career, Jack says, “I love the law.  If I didn’t come to work every day, I think I’d be gone in six months. I enjoy helping people and if I had to come in a wheelchair, I’d do that too.”
       Jack is in practice with his nephew and specializes in real estate and probate work; he also does a great deal of pro bono work, although he won’t mention it.  Some of his clients are fourth generation.  Jack’s own family roots in Weatherford go back to his great grandfather,  who settled there in the mid-1800s. In 1880, his grandmother Borden was among the first depositors and customers of the newly chartered First National Bank of Weatherford.  One hundred years later, Jack retired from 22 years of service on the board. 
       Born one of six children, Jack tells that he has worked all his life, beginning at age five helping his father on the family farm. He dropped out of high school, but at age 21 enrolled at Weatherford College, explaining that at the time you didn’t need a high school diploma to attend college.  Jack graduated in 1931 and went on to the University of Texas and law school there, all the while working his way through during the height of the Depression.  Jack’s determination paid off. Back in Weatherford, as a young attorney his first job was that of assistant district attorney; a few years later he ran unopposed for district attorney.  When America entered World War II, Jack’s efforts to enlist were thwarted by colorblindness.  Again undeterred, Jack found a way to serve his country by becoming a special agent with the FBI.  He has fond memories of his four years of service and of the challenge and excitement of his assignments.
       In 1940 Jack had married the love of his life, Edith, who was his equal in every way.  He describes her as the “most intelligent woman I’ve ever known.” And says she was his best friend as well as his wife of 66 years.  Edith had her own career path that included teaching, a professorship at Weatherford College and  a law degree.  Jack adds that she was also an accomplished artist.  After four years of service with the FBI, Jack joined Edith in a law practice in Weatherford.  Although they did not have children of their own, they took an interest in helping other peoples’ children through educational philanthropy, which Jack continues.
       Soon after Jack returned to Weatherford, in 1945, he also became a founding member of the Parker County Sheriff’s Posse.  He relishes his continued participation with the group and can still be seen riding in the annual rodeo parade as its oldest member. He has also been a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Masonic Lodge for over seven decades.
       Those who know Jack describe him as gracious, humble, loyal and as someone who speaks the truth.  Jack is a man who lives the Golden Rule. For over 50 years, he served as a greeter every Sunday at the front door of Weatherford’s First Baptist Church and keeps his well worn Bible in his office desk drawer within arm’s reach.
       Jack’s favorite pastime remains fishing.  Two days after his 101st birthday celebration, Jack was once again on the road heading to New Mexico for his annual fishing trip.

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