John Thomas Luwaya Lujang

John Luwaya Thomas Lujang

Sunrise: January 10, 1958

Sunset: January 30, 2026

John Luwaya Thomas Lujang was a respected husband, father, professional driver, and a man of courage whose life was defined by service, resilience, and dedication to both family and duty.

Personal Background

John was a Catholic man from the Kakuwa tribe of the Muga clan. He hailed from Limuro Sub-Boma, Wuji Payam, in Lainya County of Central Equatoria State, South Sudan. He was the son of the late Suliman Lujang Gawa Lomuresuk Nesuk of the Muga clan and Martha Kajo Baba of the Turupa clan from Yaribe, Morobo County. He grew up among siblings in a close-knit family, where he learned the values of faith, responsibility, and perseverance.

Marital and Family Life

John was married to four wives, with whom he built a large and loving family.

His first wife, Hanan Abdu from Mundu, Tore Payam in Yei County, was blessed with two children, one of whom passed away.

His second wife, Catherine Lumeri Wanin from the Wadisa clan of Ombasin in Yei County, was blessed with three children, one of whom passed away.

His third wife, Joyce Nathana Solomon from the Pakujo clan of Morobo County, was blessed with four children, one of whom also passed away.

His fourth wife, Linda Hitlar from Pirisa in Lainya County, was blessed with three children.

Among his 14 beloved children, they are:

1. Joice John Thomas

2. Edwin John Thomas

3. Diana John Thomas

4. Frank John Thomas

5. Carline John Thomas

6. Eric John Thomas

7. Armina John Thomas

8. Stella John Thomas

9. Anthony John Thomas

10. Stella John Thomas

11. Nivain John Thomas

12. Rose John Thomas

13. Joval John Thomas

14. Matthew John Thomas

Who carry forward his name and legacy. Despite life’s hardships and losses, John remained a devoted father and husband, carrying his responsibilities with strength, humility, and love.

Educational Background

John’s educational journey began under challenging conditions, but he remained determined to pursue knowledge:

• 1973-1974: Limuro Self-Help Primary School

• 1974-1975: Bori Primary School

• 1976-1977: Unity Primary School, Juba (Completed Primary 6)

• 1978-1979: Bulluk Intermediate School

In the early 1980s, after his brother, the late Philimon Dada, was transferred to Rumbek, John relocated to Yei. Later, in search of better opportunities, he moved to Khartoum, demonstrating courage, determination, and the ability to adapt to new environments.

Professional Life

From 1983 to 2018, John served with dedication as a professional driver for respected international organizations, including:

• USAID

• The Netherlands (Holland) Embassy

• UNICEF

He was known for his professionalism, discipline, and exceptional driving skills. His employers and colleagues trusted him for his reliability, calm spirit, and strong work ethic.

A Moment of Bravery - July 2016 Crisis

In July 2016, during the height of the crisis in Juba, John was on official duty transporting a colleague and a Deputy Mission official from the American Embassy. As they approached the UNDP area, they encountered heavily armed soldiers blocking the road.

Fully aware of the danger, John relied on his technical driving skills and courage. He struck one of the parked military vehicles to create confusion and open a narrow path for escape. He then drove at high speed toward safety.

When the vehicle’s front tire was damaged and they realized they were being pursued, John executed a sharp U-turn and made the vehicle appear as if it had suffered a mechanical breakdown. This quick thinking misled the pursuing soldiers, who eventually abandoned the chase.

Throughout the incident, John maintained communication with embassy personnel, helping coordinate the safe rescue of everyone on board. His actions that day were not only professional but truly heroic.

Legacy of Faith and Love

John will be remembered as a man of courage, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to both family and duty. He was a quiet hero whose life reflected resilience, faith, and love for those around him. He touched many lives through his kindness, strength, and dedication.

Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through his

children, family, and all who know him.

“Well, done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.”

- Matthew 25:23

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Forever loved, never forgotten.