Jack Thomas Coulson

Jack Thomas “Tom” Coulson died peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. He was 91. Jack was born October 1, 1934, in Renton, Washington, to the late Charlotte Bouldron Coulson and Raymond Bouldron. He was preceded in death by his sister, Charlene M. West, and his brother, William “Dick” Coulson. Jack grew up in Renton, where he lived with his grandfather, whom he called Dad, and his grandmother, Jenny. After moving to Virginia with his mother and stepfather and graduating from high school, he joined the United States Navy and served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet. His naval career took him around the world, including service in the East China Sea during the uneasy truce that followed the Korean War. He was awarded the China Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal for his service. After leaving the Navy, Jack earned a degree in electrical engineering from George Washington University and went on to build a remarkable career in the spaceflight industry. He designed and developed sophisticated spacecraft instruments, including magnetometers and ion mass spectrometers. His instruments flew aboard missions throughout the solar system, visiting every planet as well as the Moon and helping scientists greatly expand humanity’s understanding of our universe. Jack’s contributions to space exploration earned him numerous honors from NASA and his employers, including a NASA Group Achievement Award. But while his professional accomplishments were extraordinary, those who knew him will remember him just as much for the person he was: curious, capable, adventurous, and deeply devoted to the people he loved. Jack cherished time with family and friends. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, kayaking, and birding, always bringing his curiosity and enthusiasm to the world around him. Whether exploring distant planets or simply enjoying time with those closest to him, Jack lived a life of adventure. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Evelyn; his children, Sharon, Brenda, Diane, and Todd; his stepson, Terry; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on October 1, 2026, which would have been Jack’s 92nd birthday, at 11 a.m., with the family receiving visitors beginning at 10 a.m. at Fellows, Helfenbein and Newman Funeral Home, 106 Shamrock Road, Chester, MD 21619. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Grasonville Volunteer Fire Department at Grasonville Volunteer Fire Department (mailing address for checks: 4128 Main St Grasonville, PO Box 457 Grasonville MD 21638) or Guide Dogs for the Blind at Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Jack Thomas Coulson

October 1, 1934 - July 14, 2026