Jack Dudley Barnston, 89, passed away on the morning of April 28th, 2010. Mr. Barnston was born on April 23rd, 1921, in Houston, Texas, son of the late Rabbi Henry and  Ruth Barnston. At the age of 16, Jack enrolled in the University of Texas, eventually furthering his education at that institution's law school.

After serving in World War II as a First Lieutenant in the Army Air Corps, Jack worked as an executive for the Majestic Laundry Co. until 1961, when he passed the CT Bar exam and became a practicing attorney. A member of both the CT and Texas Bars, he was admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the U.S. and practiced in New Haven while serving as a part-time housing code prosecutor for the city until the age of 80. A concerned and active member of his community, Jack served as the chairman of the Social Action committee of Congregation Mishkan Israel and President of its Board of Directors, also on the Boards of Jewish Federation, Jewish Family Service, the Jewish Community Center, Urban League and Fellowship Club. He also found time to volunteer as a Tutor for students at Literacy Volunteers of New Haven. He was awarded a Kovod Key from the JCC in honor of his service. Jack was passionate about physical exercise and did some form of it every day until his latest illness. He was an avid tennis and racquet-ball player and loved to play the piano, which he played by ear.

Devoted brother of Vivienne Wright and the late Alfred Barnston. Loving father of Anthony, Patricia, Charles and Henry Barnston. Stepfather of James, Julie, Katie and Tom. Grandfather of Tom, Tal, Ron, Nikki, Max and Jackson. Most of all, wonderful husband of 31 years to Betsy Hahn Barnston. Jack fought courageously to overcome his illness and never lost his wonderful sense of humor and gentle caring manner. His fight was made easier because of the care of his step-son, Tom, and in the last year the amazing loving care of his companion, Edwin Akyea. The family is also grateful in the amazing help of Hospice Homecare.

Funeral service will be held at Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden, Sunday afternoon at 1. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Connecticut Hospice Inc., 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT. 06405 or Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden, CT. 06518. The Weller Funeral Home, 493 Whitney Ave., New Haven is in charge of arrangements.