In the near future, we plan to introduce a condolence resolution honoring the life and achievements of former Senator Jack McGregor, who passed away on January 6, 2026, at the age of 91.

Born on September 22, 1934, in Kittanning, Armstrong County, Jack graduated from Wilkinsburg High School in Pittsburgh following a family move to the area. Jack attended Yale University on a full scholarship. Following graduation, Jack was commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps and attained the rank of Captain. Jack attended law school at the University of Pittsburgh, where he graduated valedictorian and served as editor-in-chief of the University of Pittsburgh Law Review.

While still in law school, Jack was elected to the Pennsylvania State Senate. He served two terms and was among the youngest individuals ever to serve in the chamber.  

In addition to practicing law, Jack was an avid sports fan and passionate businessman who successfully brought a National Hockey League franchise to Pittsburgh. Not only was Jack the founder and original owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins, but he also served as the team’s first president and represented the club on the NHL’s Board of Governors.

After selling his stake in the Penguins, Jack moved his family to Washington, D.C., where he was appointed general counsel of the U.S. Pay Board by President Richard Nixon. Following this appointment, Jack served as vice president and general counsel of PEPCO and later as the executive vice president of Carey Energy Corp. in New York City. Jack went on to found the Hampton Douglas Corp., an international venture capital firm. Following his time in New York City, Jack moved to Connecticut to serve as president and CEO of the Aquarion Water Company.

Jack is survived by his wife Joannah Purnell McGregor; his children, Nancy, Douglas, Betsey and Heather; his sister, Janice Wren; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Please join us in recognizing the tremendous life and legacy of former Senator Jack McGregor.