Jack Portman III was a renowned architect from Atlanta, Georgia. He became well-known in the architecture world, both in the U.S. and internationally. He took over as CEO and chairman of Portman Architects after his father, John Calvin Portman Jr., passed away in 2017.
He was married to Erin Everly from 1997 until their divorce in 2006. They had three children together: John C. Portman IV, Easan Everly Portman, and Eres Ever Invicta Portman. He also had two other children, Joannah Portman Daley and Alissa Portman Beard.
The reasons for Portman III’s divorce from Erin remain private. Fourteen years later, on August 28, 2020, he died at the age of 71 from natural causes at his home in Atlanta, Georgia.
Who Was Jack Portman III?
Jack Portman III was a renowned architect and real estate developer who made a lasting impact on architecture worldwide. Born on November 3, 1948, in Atlanta, Georgia, he was the child of John Calvin Portman Jr., a notable architect, and Jan Portman. He had six siblings: Michael Portman, Jeff Portman, Jana Portman Simmons, Jarel Portman, and Jae Portman (late). He grew up immersed in the world of architecture and design, which shaped his future career and vision.
Portman III attended The Lovett School in Atlanta before moving on to the Georgia Institute of Technology, earning a Bachelor of Architecture. He continued his education at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design, where he received a Master of Architecture. This strong educational background gave him the tools and understanding to significantly contribute to his field.
In 1973, he began his apprenticeship at his father’s firm, established in 1953 and later known as Portman Architects. His early years at the firm were marked by learning and growth, setting the stage for the leadership role he would eventually assume. Following his father’s death in December 2017, Portman III took on the mantle of chairman and CEO, steering the company with a steady hand and a visionary outlook.
His nearly five-decade career with Portman Architects was characterized by innovation and expansion. While his father was celebrated for reshaping Atlanta’s skyline with iconic projects like the Peachtree Center complex, Portman III’s contributions were no less significant. He was instrumental in the firm’s real estate development arm and played a pivotal role in its international success.
One of Portman III’s most notable achievements was leading the design and development of the Shanghai Center, which opened in 1990. This project was groundbreaking, as it was the first major project in China to be headed by a non-ethnically Chinese architect or developer in several decades. The Shanghai Center was not just a building; it was a symbol of perseverance, diplomacy, and a harmonious blend of cultural references with a futuristic vision. It served as a catalyst for the evolution of architecture in modern-day China and was a personal favorite of his.
Portman III’s influence extended far beyond the borders of the United States. He established himself in Hong Kong in 1979 and led numerous projects across Asia, including in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and later in India and Korea. His ability to bridge the East and the West through architecture and interpersonal relationships earned him the reputation of an ambassador for American architects in China.
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He Was Married To Erin Everly For 9 Years
Jack Portman III found love with Erin Everly, a woman with her own ties to fame. Erin, born on November 8, 1965, in Los Angeles, California, was the daughter of Don Everly of the rock and roll duo The Everly Brothers, and actress Venetia Stevenson. Her life was a tapestry of high-profile connections and moments in the spotlight, including her brief marriage to Axl Rose, the lead singer of Guns N’ Roses.
Portman III’s path crossed with Erin after her relationship with Axl Rose ended. They married in 1997, and their union was a significant chapter in both their lives. Unlike her previous marriage, her relationship with the Atlanta architect was more private, but it was clear that they shared a deep connection. Together, they had three children: John C. Portman IV, Easan Everly Portman, and Eres Ever Invicta Portman, who became the center of their world. Additionally, he earlier had two children; Joannah Portman Daley, and Alissa Portman Beard
Portman III and Erin’s marriage lasted for nearly a decade, a period during which they navigated the complexities of life together. Their relationship was a blend of personal and professional realms, with Erin supporting his architectural endeavors while also managing their family life.
However, like many relationships, theirs faced challenges, and in 2006, after nine years of marriage, they decided to part ways. The reasons for their separation remain private, a testament to the respect they have for their shared history and family.
Jack Portman III Died From Natural Causes In 2020
He departed this life on September 1, 2020, at the age of 71 due to natural causes. His contributions stand as a testament to architecture’s ability to overcome boundaries and unite people. His memory will be eternally etched in the skylines of cities worldwide and cherished by those fortunate enough to have known him.
More than the structures he designed or the business he grew, his legacy is embedded in the relationships he fostered and the lives he enriched. A visionary, he recognized the potential of international markets ahead of his time and dedicated himself to integrating diverse cultures through his architectural designs. His unique approach to problem-solving involved not just analyzing existing data but also immersing himself in direct engagement with collaborators, embracing their customs and cultures.
This enduring legacy will continue to inspire future generations of architects and developers.
