Edward “Jack” Levins, 97, of Franklin died peacefully on June 27 at the Carlyle House in Framingham after a brief illness. He was the husband of Barbara A. (Ristaino) Levins for the past 73 years.
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on April 26, 1928, the son of the late Edward A. and Marrie (Keagan) Levins, Jack was a longtime Franklin resident.
As a young man, Jack pursued a religious vocation, first as a seminarian and later as a Trappist monk. Fortunately for his future family, he decided not to follow this path. While visiting his cousins at Swift’s Beach in Wareham, he met the love of his life, Barbara Ristaino. On June 7, 1952, Jack and Barbara were married at St. Mary’s Church in Franklin. Over the next 73 years of marriage, they raised three children, spoiled four grandchildren, traveled extensively, and made many friends.
Jack loved the ocean and was a life-long sailor. He began sailing at a young age, expertly maneuvering his small dinghy around Buzzards Bay by the time he was 10. He continued sailing well into his 90s and loved spending summers at Dexter Beach in Marion. He was an avid reader, and especially loved reading about history, legendary creatures, and anything to do with Ireland. One of his proudest moments was becoming an Irish citizen in 2010.
Jack worked as a planner for the Foxboro Company for many years before retiring. In retirement, Jack and Barbara traveled the world and donated many hours serving as volunteers for St. Vincent DePaul. Jack served as President of the organization for several years.
Throughout his life, Jack loved his faithful canine companions, from his childhood Border Collie, Barney, to many Shelties and Collies, a Golden Retriever, and a Glen of Imaal Terrier.
In addition to his wife, Jack is survived by his children: Annmarie Levins (Linda Severin), Gregg Levins, and John Levins (Joan Levins). He is also survived by four grandchildren: Alanna Levins (Caitlin Doocey), Julia Benoit (Steph Benoit), Gregory Severin, and Kaitlyn Severin. He was the brother of the late Brenda Levins Kreifels.
Jack’s services will be private.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to St. Vincent DePaul, c/o St. Mary’s Church, Church Square, Franklin, MA 02038
Arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (ginleyfuneralhomes.com).