Celebrating the Life of

Jack La Motta Lisumbu

April 24, 1952 – July 5, 2026

Jack La Motta Lisumbu was born on April 24, 1952, in Coquilatville (now Mbandaka), Equateur Province, Belgian Congo (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). He was the son of Pierre Lisumbu and Alphonsine Engwanda.

Affectionately called "Jacquie" by his father and known to family and friends as Jack or La Motta, he was the eldest of twelve children. His parents, two brothers, and one sister preceded him in death.

Jack attended elementary and secondary school in Kinshasa at Collège Boboto. He later continued his education in Paris during the early years of his country's independence and then in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Because of his father's diplomatic career, the family lived in several countries, allowing Jack to experience different cultures from an early age. These experiences sparked a lifelong passion for travel and aviation that remained with him throughout his life.

Jack first served in the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he completed military training in Kitona and Kamina. After coming to the United States, he continued his commitment to military service by proudly serving in the United States Navy from December 13, 1980, through September 14, 1988.

After his military service, Jack built a successful career as a professional truck driver in the United States, a profession he enjoyed for well over a decade. His career allowed him to continue exploring the country, satisfying his adventurous spirit and lifelong love of travel.

On July 29, 1997, Jack married Moseka Boboy La Motta. Together, they were blessed with three beautiful daughters: Marie Alphonsine La Motta, Marlene La Motta, and Rachel La Motta. He also found great joy in becoming a grandfather and cherished the time he shared with his beloved grandchild, Messiah.

Those who knew Jack best knew that music held a special place in his heart. He was among the young people who founded the Thu-Zaïna Orchestra, a precursor to the legendary Zaïko Langa-Langa. Music remained an important part of his life, and he maintained lifelong friendships with many musicians from that era. One especially memorable moment was welcoming the legendary Congolese music icon Papa Wemba into his home during one of his visits to the United States.

Jack also took great pride in his appearance. Whether wearing a sharp suit, one of his favorite watches, or dressing for a special occasion, he always carried himself with confidence and style.

Jack will be remembered for his love of family, his passion for music and aviation, his military service, his years as a dedicated truck driver, and his adventurous spirit. Whether traveling the open road, sharing stories with loved ones, or enjoying good music, he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife, Moseka Boboy La Motta; his beloved daughters, Marie Alphonsine La Motta, Marlene La Motta, and Rachel La Motta; his beloved grandchild, Messiah; his brothers and sisters; and a large extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on through the lives he touched and the love he shared with family and friends.

"The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord."

Job 1:21

VISITATION: 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Thursday,  July 30, 2026

Colonial Funeral Home of Irving

606 W. Airport Freeway

Irving, TX  75062

SERVICE:        6:00 pm - 8:30 pm, Thursday,  July 30, 2026

Colonial Funeral Home of Irving

606 W. Airport Freeway

Irving, TX  75062

PRAYER SERVICE AND FINAL VIEWING

11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Friday, July 31, 2026

Colonial Funeral Home of Irving

606 W. Airport Freeway

Irving, TX  75062

INTERNMENT

2:00 pm, Friday, July 31, 2026

Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery

2000 Mountain Creek Parkway

Dallas, TX  75211

Military Funeral Honors will be given by the Dallas Honor Guard

REPASS / CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Immediately following the Internment

Friday, July 31, 2026

3:30 PM

514 W. Harwood Road

Hurst, TX  76054