Jack Lord, also known as John Joseph Patrick Ryan, guarded his personal life from public scrutiny. Despite queries about his first marriage, he preferred privacy. Speculations about it ranged from neglect to prioritizing career over family. His son’s tragic death at 12 due to hepatitis added to the mystery. His marriage ended while he was at sea, and he lost contact with his family thereafter.

After his first marriage, Lord found love with Marie DeNarde, a successful fashion designer. Their meeting was unconventional, with Lord persistently pursuing her to buy her house. Despite their age gap, they married in 1949. DeNarde supported Lord throughout his career, contributing behind the scenes to “Hawaii Five-O.” Lord credited her for his personal growth, acknowledging her influence on his temper and career trajectory.

They chose not to have children to focus on Lord’s career, which eventually soared with “Hawaii Five-O.” Even in retirement, they remained devoted, with DeNarde caring for Lord until his passing in 1998. She cherished their memories together and thanked their supporters. In his final years, Lord found happiness with DeNarde, symbolized by their beach strolls and shared moments.