In memoriam: Jack Eidson, MD

TAFP member Jack Eidson, MD, passed away at the age of 91 on June 15, 2014, in Weatherford, Texas. Eidson became a member in 1954 and was selected as the Texas Family Physician of the Year in 1993. He also helped organize the Three Rivers Chapter of TAFP.

Affectionately known as “Dr. Jack,” Eidson graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1943, and was sent to medical school by the U.S. Army during World War II. He graduated from Baylor Medical School in 1946 and then served with the U.S. Army Air Corps for four years in Houston, San Antonio, Indianapolis, and Denver.

Upon meeting the local pharmacist, Gerald Davis, Eidson moved to Weatherford, Texas, in January 1950, where he practiced until retirement in 2000. In those 50 years he delivered over 5,000 babies and was known for his tender bedside manner.

In addition to his busy medical practice, Eidson was active in TAFP and the Texas Medical Association; served as medical director for the American Bankers Insurance Company; was awarded the Silver Beaver by the Boy Scouts of America for 30 years of service; was president of the Weatherford Lions Club and The Cancer Society; served the local Chamber of Commerce and United Way; spent three terms as Weatherford City Commissioner and Mayor pro tem; and was active in politics, working for Dwight Eisenhower’s 1952 campaign and serving the Republican National Convention in 1972.

Eidson is survived by multiple children, including TAFP member Mark Eidson, MD, and numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews worldwide.