John W. “Jack” Estes Jr.
WESTBROOK – John W. “Jack” Estes, Jr., 83, of Westbrook, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, at his apartment at the Gorham House.
A 1960 graduate of Westbrook High School, Jack embodied his yearbook ambition “To be a success” through a life of service, integrity, and community involvement. He was an active student — a member of the National Honor Society, President of the Key Club, Treasurer of the Science Club, participant in multiple sports, and, to the amusement of many, President of the Driving Club.
Jack began his professional career as a banker and, after 1989, found meaningful work with the Westbrook School Department and the Portland Sea Dogs.
In retirement, he filled his days with what he cherished most: friends, family, and travel, including cruises and trips to Las Vegas, Arizona, Foxwoods, Oxford, and Bangor. He never missed a chance to watch his family’s sporting events, even the ones he didn’t quite understand, and remained a diehard fan of all things Chicago sports.
His high school quote, “The highest distinction is service to others,” became a guiding principle in his life. Jack dedicated years to public service, including terms on the Westbrook City Council and School Committee. He gave his time generously as a volunteer at Mercy At The Fore and in the Barbara Bush Children’s Wing at Maine Medical Center. He was also a proud and active member of several charitable organizations, including the Westbrook Lions Club, the Eagles, and the Knights of Columbus.
Jack was a true son of Westbrook to the very end — civic-minded, spirited, and full of humor. As many in the community have fondly noted, he may well have been the only unofficial mayor the city ever had.
Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary Helen Estes; his brother, Ronald Estes; and his parents John W. Estes, Sr. and Marion Estes.
He is survived by his two sons, Bill and wife Gail Estes of Avondale, Pa. and Jeff and wife Kelly Estes of Hollis. He was a proud grandfather, affectionately known as “Bumpa” to his grandson, Luca Estes, and granddaughters Elaine Garton and her husband Dave, Elise Estes, and Elizabeth Estes.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Gorham House, to the nurses and caregivers from Compassus Hospice for their outstanding care and kindness and the many friends who brought him into their families and offered their help.
Friends and family are invited to attend a time of visitation on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 9 to 10 a.m. at Dolby, Blais & Segee Funeral Home, 35 Church St., Westbrook, followed by a memorial service at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Hyacinth Cemetery. There will be a Celebration of Life gathering from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Stockhouse Restaurant, Westbrook.
To express online condolences or to leave a memory for Jack’s family please visit http://www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com
In lieu of flowers,
donations in Jack’s memory may be made to
MaineHealth Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital,
We invite you to add your comments. We encourage a thoughtful exchange of ideas and information on this website. By joining the conversation, you are agreeing to our commenting policy and terms of use. More information is found on our FAQs. You can update your screen name on the member's center.
Comments are managed by our staff during regular business hours Monday through Friday as well as limited hours on Saturday and Sunday. Comments held for moderation outside of those hours may take longer to approve.
Join the Conversation
Please sign into your Press Herald account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe. Questions? Please see our FAQs.