Mark Thomas Musick

There is no calling greater than service to others over self and the life of Mark Thomas Musick should be used as a blueprint for future generations of servants. Born September 30, 1956 to the late Thomas & Roxabel Musick, Mark was a 1974 graduate of Jackson High School, a graduate of Ohio University (BBA, Cum Laude), and a 1986 graduate of Capital University Law School (Doctor of Jurisprudence, Order of the Curia Top 10%). Achievement was important to Mark evidenced by his life and many accomplishments. He was particularly proud of his Eagle Scout designation representing the highest rank attainable in the scouts signifying significant dedication to character development, leadership, and community service. Mark’s commitment to success continued beyond his academic and youthful achievements and spilled over into his professional career spanning nearly 40 years between the practice of law and elected service as Judge in the Jackson County Municipal Court. Mark operated a successful private practice representing thousands of clients over the course of 20 years. His approach to the practice of law was dichotomous. Mark was unassuming by nature and was a superior listener. He offered his clients friendship, compassion, and availability. To the world, opposing counsel, and courts, he approached his duties with a warrior’s spirit and a dogged pursuit of successful results. His advocacy for his clients was fierce and tireless. He was persistent- although some judges may have used a different descriptive word at times. Boundaries of time and space were no deterrent to Mark when he was acting in furtherance of a client’s need. He was known to call, and sometimes visit, opposing counsel and judges at home in the evening hours and on weekends when advocating for his clients. Mark’s approach was unusual in the law and brought comfort to clients in challenging circumstances. After two decades of private practice, Mark was elected Jackson County Municipal Court Judge in 2007. The same year, unintentional drug overdoses became the leading cause of injury deaths surpassing motor vehicle crashes and suicide. Mark recognized the impact of substance use disorder on local families and the economic costs at large and began planning. He cultivated and formed partnerships with community organizations, service providers, and local stakeholders. After a year of planning and development, Mark launched the Jackson County Municipal Court Drug Court in 2009- a first for Jackson County-leading to certification by the Supreme Court of Ohio. As was the case with any task Mark tackled, he worked day and night to educate himself on substance use disorder, recovery, available services, drug trends, and evidence-based treatment. Mark held a compulsive like need to master any given subject matter that related to his work motivated by a desire to help others achieve sobriety and productivity. And, help others he did. The Municipal Court Drug Court has served hundreds of participants since its inception, saving countless lives resulting in immeasurable generational impacts across families. The tributes offered by former drug court graduates after Mark’s passing include “He saved my life” “He will always be my guardian angel” “He gave me a chance and the tools to change my life” and “He saved my husband’s life.” Mark led with his heart and prioritized service to others over self. He lived by that ethos religiously and worked to instill that value in those he mentored. His successes in life, and in particular with drug court, are no doubt a testament to his commitment to the advancement of people, his compassion, and his desire to see others succeed. Mark was a strong and frequent supporter of varying community organizations and believed strongly in giving back to his community. If you had the pleasure of knowing Mark, then you have without a doubt had the opportunity to hear a story, or five, receive a compliment, and share a laugh. Mark tried to always part ways leaving others feeling good about themselves. Simply, Mark lived to lift others up. He disregarded expectations and acted without fear of embarrassment, disarmed with humor, and acted intentionally with humility- a now proven blueprint for future servants. Mark passed away May 5, 2025 and is preceded in death by his father, Thomas, his mother, Roxabel, and his special friend, Brandon Ross. He is survived by his sister, Dawn (Merrill) Lanning, niece Jill (Kevin) Bapst, niece Kristin (Matt) Crabtree, great nephew Brycen Crabtree, special friends Derek Cales and Jake Ross, and his dog Piper. To honor Mark’s memory, please maintain your path of sobriety and, if you falter, reach out for help without delay. As Mark would remind you, your life is valuable and you are worth saving. Funeral services for Mark will be held at 4pm on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the Jackson Middle School gymnasium with Justin Oyer officiating. The family will receive friends 5 hours prior to the service from 11-4pm. A private burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mayhew-brownfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jackson County Dog Pound at 25 E South St, Jackson, Ohio 45640; Warriors for Christ at 84 Mound St, Jackson, Ohio 45640; or a recovery center of your choice.

Mark Thomas Musick

September 30, 1956 - May 5, 2025