Monroe Township, New Jersey - Jack M. Haims passed away peacefully Oct. 8, 2025, in Monroe Township, New Jersey.

Born in Akron, Ohio, and raised in New Castle, Jack happily spent nearly his entire life there before moving to New Jersey six years ago to be closer to family.

Jack is survived by his wife of 72 years, Elaine; his daughter and son-in-law, Lynn and Michael Shakin; his sons, Allan (Los Angeles) and Joshua (New Orleans); six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Evelyn Haims; and his brother, Lawrence Haims.

A lifelong New Castle merchant and community leader, Jack was known for his steadfast commitment to service — a guiding principle throughout his life.

He served as president of Tifereth Israel Synagogue, chairman of the United Jewish Appeal and held leadership roles with Israel Bonds, B'nai B'rith, the Lawrence County United Way and the New Castle Downtown Merchants Association, among others.

Jack was the owner of The Ladies Store, and the Clothes Post in the Towne Mall.

In his second career, Jack brought his lifelong love of the arts to his role as Director of Development at the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown. There, he found a meaningful way to combine his passion for art with his gift for community engagement. A devoted collector, he assembled a personal library of more than 3,000 history and fine art books and never missed an opportunity to visit a museum or bookstore — often with his grandchildren in tow to share stories about artists or remarkable paintings.

Family and friends will be received from 3 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at R. Cunningham Funeral Home, 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle, with a service immediately following at 4 p.m.

Interment will follow at Tifereth Israel Cemetery, 390 Maple Drive, New Castle.

Donations in Jack's memory may be made to the Butler Institute of American Art (https://butlerart.com ) or the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation (https://jewishyoungstown.org).