Former Bay District Schools Superintendent Jack Simonson, passed away early morning on May 12, 2026 surrounded by family members. Jack was born on November 15, 1943 in Macon, Georgia to parents John C. and Mary G. Simonson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ann Simonson. He is survived by three brothers, Robert T. Simonson (Joy), Richard J. Simonson, Michael P. Simonson (Sandy) and Lisa Simonson. He is also survived by seven nieces and nephews and several great nieces and nephews. Jack was a graduate of Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He began Carleton while his father was stationed with the United States Air Force in Ottawa. In addition to Carleton, Jack attended Auburn University earning his Master’s Degree. He held Florida certifications in Math (6-12) and Principal (all levels).

After teaching for a year in Ottawa, Jack moved back to Panama City to be closer to family. In 1968, Jack began his long-distinguished career in Bay District Schools, joining the faculty at Everett Middle School as a math teacher. In 1974, he moved to Rutherford High School as the Math Department Chair, later serving as Assistant Principal. In 1998, Jack was elected Superintendent of Bay District Schools. During his term in office, he was instrumental in obtaining the property and building the new Bay District School offices known as the Nelson Building on Balboa Avenue. The district moved in the new building after Jack left office. After leaving office, he served as Assistant Principal at Bay High School from 1993 to 2000. In 2001, he moved to Arnold High School serving as Assistant Principal until his retirement in 2006. The following school year he returned to Arnold as a math teacher, doing what he truly loved. Jack finally retired in 2018, after serving Bay County students for over 49 years. As an adjunct Jack taught math at Gulf Coast. Jack will be remembered by students, co-workers, parents and friends as a person of strength, wisdom and integrity. Respecting his wishes, memorialization will be by cremation with no services to be held. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association in memory of Jack Simonson.