Dr. Jack Cody
September 2, 1943 ~ January 3, 2026
Jack Enoch Cody, 82, passed away on January 3, 2026, surrounded by the love and affection of his devoted family. Born on September 2, 1943, in Lexington, Kentucky, Jack was the eldest child of Ola Gardner Cody and Enoch Stafford Cody. Jack was the oldest of three siblings and is preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janet Cody Matthews, and her husband, Bob Matthews; and his brother, Michael Glenn Cody.
A proud 1961 graduate of Danville High School, Jack continued his studies at Centre College, earning his degree in 1965. He pursued medicine at the University of Louisville Medical School, graduating in 1969. Jack completed his internship at Cook County Hospital in Chicago from 1969 to 1970 and went on to his surgical residency at Emery University from 1970 to 1974.
From 1974 to 1976, Jack served in the United States Army, where he attained the rank of Major and was stationed in Germany before his honorable discharge. He then returned with his family to Danville, Kentucky, where he had grown up, and dedicated his professional life to caring for others as a surgeon until his retirement in 2003.
Jack’s interests were as wide‑ranging as his curiosity: skiing, golfing, hiking, cheering for Centre College basketball and University of Kentucky basketball, and—above all—making memories with his grandchildren. Everyone who crossed Jack’s path knew his gift for storytelling. He could spin a yarn with wit and warmth, drawing in anyone willing to listen.
He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Kopp Cody; sons John Cody (Susan) and James Cody (Laura); and his cherished grandchildren Alex Cody Marx (Will), Jackson Cody, Joshua Cody, and Jacob Cody. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Becky Wilson; nephews Jason Matthews, Eric Matthews, and John Platt; and grand‑nephews Ryder Matthews and Brady Platt.
Quick with a smile, Jack radiated kindness and compassion. He was steadfastly devoted to his family, who surrounded him in his final days, showering him with the same affection he had shown them throughout his life.
The funeral service will be 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at First Christian Church with Rev. Colby Smith officiating. The visitation will be 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at First Christian Church prior to the service. Pallbearers will be John Cody, Jim Cody, Jackson Cody, Will Marx, Jason Matthews and Eric Matthews.
Jack’s family is deeply grateful to all who supported him during his stay at The Willows in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, especially their dedicated staff. The countless friends, volunteers, healthcare providers, Hospice, and others who supported him provided so much comfort. Everyone’s compassion and commitment to his care were a blessing.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Lewy Body Dementia Association and the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research in Jack’s memory.
Services
Visitation: January 7, 2026 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
First Christian Church Disciples of Christ
555 East Lexington Avenue
Danville, KY 40422
Funeral Service: January 7, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
First Christian Church Disciples of Christ
555 East Lexington Avenue
Danville, KY 40422
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Jack Cody 's name.
Memories Timeline
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Nancy, my thoughts and prayers are with you . Jack was always a great friend and so much fun to be around; long time .
Marji Hines
I appreciated his knowledge and skills and his pleasant personality.
I wish you strength and hope as you carry on with life
God bless you
Nancy, John, Jim, and Family,
Jack was a wonderful friend and partner. He was always helpful in many ways and was always willing to give “One Kentuckian’s opinion” when I asked for advice. He helped me see the perspective of work/life balance but was always ready to go when he was on call. His love for his family was obvious and that included his grandchildren. He was always telling me about you and what you were doing. And that it was often helpful to him to “take a walk in the woods” to help sort things out. I often think of him and that advice when I’m out walking. Godspeed to Jack on that great trail in the sky! We will be there with you in our memories of you.
Dear Nancy & family,
I am sorry to learn of Jack’s passing. As a person and as a surgeon, Jack was the best. It had been hard to witness Jack in his decline. May God grant him eternal rest.
Sincerely,
Art Jester
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Jack. You guys always came into the assisted living with a smile and he always was cutting up with us.
Dr Cody was such a nice man and wonderful dr. His mother was my second grade teacher at Perryville Ele. She worn the prettiest beads and taught in heels. She talked about her children a lot. We all loved her. Stuart played golf with Dr Cody. We thought a lot of him. Sincere Condolences 🙏
Judy
Much love and condolences Nancy. Dr. Cody never seemed to lose his smile even in his decline. I wish I had known him before he got sick. You two were quite a blessing to all of us at the Willows. God bless sweet lady
Dear Mrs Cody, John and Jim I am so very sorry to hear of Dr Cody’s passing. I remember spending the night at your home on Boone Trail and Jack making it so much fun. He had a wonderful sense of humor and made everyone around him feel special. Prayers for you and your families.
Fondly,
Todd Rapier
You were such a “light” in so many lives !!
My prayers are with your family during this great loss. This candle is lit in honor of you and the Legacy you created. Fly High Sir 🙏