Remembering Jack T. Baldwin: Teacher, technologist, trailblazer

Jack T. Baldwin PhD, co-founder and CEO of BHMI and a widely respected figure in the payments and technology sectors, died on July 18, 2025, after facing leukemia with unwavering strength and grace. He was 78.

Dr. Baldwin's legacy spans nearly four decades of leadership at BHMI, the Omaha-based software company he co-founded in 1986 with his wife, Dr. Lynne J. Baldwin, and longtime colleague Michael Meeks. Under his guidance, BHMI evolved from a custom software firm into a globally recognized provider of back-office transaction processing solutions, including the widely adopted Concourse Financial Software Suite.

"Jack wasn't just my business partner—he was one of the most brilliant and principled people I've ever known," said Meeks, who serves as BHMI's chief technology officer. "His vision built BHMI, and we are fully committed to honoring that legacy by continuing to lead with the same integrity, intelligence, and heart Jack exemplified every day."

Baldwin's professional journey began in Odessa, Texas, and was marked by a passion for both computing and education. After earning his PhD in Computer Sciences from the University of Texas at Austin, he joined the University of Nebraska at Omaha as one of its first computer science faculty members.

He later played a key role in the early expansion of Applied Communications (now ACI Worldwide) before returning to academia at Creighton University. The founding of BHMI brought together Baldwin's deep technical expertise and entrepreneurial drive.

A remarkable leader

His colleagues remember him not only as a visionary in software development but also as a generous and deeply compassionate leader. "It was an honor to work under Jack's leadership for more than 27 years," said Casey Scheer, BHMI's Director of Marketing. "His steadfast dedication to innovation, integrity, and generosity shaped our company culture. He will be deeply missed."

Dr. Lynne Baldwin, BHMI's president, and Meeks will continue to lead the company, ensuring the values and vision Baldwin instilled remain at the forefront.

The Green Sheet Inc. was honored to publish articles by Dr. James T. Baldwin in 2021 and 2023, including "Moving toward a real-time payments environment," "Countdown to FedNow – The Challenges and Impacts" and "Managing disputes for real-time payments." BHMI's relationship with this publisher continues with contributions from Michael Meeks and other colleagues carrying on his legacy.

Outside of work, Baldwin was a passionate conservationist and philanthropist. He supported numerous organizations, including The Nature Conservancy, Nebraska Humane Society, and the Nebraska Wildlife Rehab's Baldwin Wildlife Center, which bears his name.

A public visitation to celebrate his life will be held Thursday, July 24, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Heafey Hoffman Dworak Cutler West Center Chapel in Omaha. Further details are available at heafeyheafey.com.

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