March 11, 2015 MARTINSVILLE, Va. -- Dr. Joel C. Mack, a longtime administrator at Maryland State and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, passed away at his home in Martinsville, Va. on March 7th. He was 88 years old.
A U.S. Army veteran, Mack enjoyed a decades-long career on the Eastern Shore as a vice president under President John T. Williams, Chancellor Archie Buffkins, and President William P. Hytche.
He had a hand in virtually every aspect of the college, including athletics. Mack served as the school's Faculty Athletic Representative throughout the 1980s and until his retirement in 1989. In this role, he served as a liaison between top level administrations and the entire athletic department, constantly working to enhance the relationship between two parties and ensuring the athletic program continues to meet NCAA standards.
His career in athletics garnered high distinction, as Mack would be inducted into the UMES Hall of Fame in 2008 and the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame a year before, making him one of just 13 Hawks to be awarded the honor.
Mack is survived by his wife, Helen Berry Mack; one daughter, Glenda M. Thompson, of Cambridge, MD; three sons, the Rev. Dwight N. Mack, of Martinsville, VA, Joel W. Mack, of Jacksonville, FL and Dwayne L. Mack, of Martinsville, VA; one sister, Emma Burdell, of Lexington, KY; one brother Roszell Mack Jr., of Lexington, KY; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren.
Services are currently being held this week in Martinsville.
