John Thomas Estes

John Thomas Estes, the son of Ervin and Norma Estes of Morrisville, NC, went home to be with the Lord on the evening of May 1, 2025. He passed away at his home in Cary, NC with his loving wife by his side. He was a beloved husband, brother, father and grandfather. The love he had for his family and his family for him was immeasurable. He had a generous and

hardworking nature and never missed an opportunity to help a friend or stranger. The impact he had on everyone's life will never be forgotten. We give thanks and praise to the Lord for allowing him to be a part of our lives.

JT was born May 4, 1941. His first career was driving semi-trucks for Burlington Industries. He received many safe driving awards. This led him to his childhood dream job of going to flight school. He had an outstanding career as a pilot for over 50 years. He captained 727s and 747s. But his favorite were his small planes, particularly his 1952 Cessna 195. Towards the end of his aviation career, he helped the US Navy track whales and the Forestry Service fight fires on the west coast. Most recently he enjoyed driving for Southern Express tour bus company.

He was loved, admired and respected by all who knew and worked with him.

He is survived by his faithful wife Carol Estes, sister Corine Johnson, son John Estes Jr. (wife

Jana Estes), daughter Joanna Freitag and his grandchildren Jordan Porter, Hailey Freitag,

William Estes, Daniel Estes, James Estes, Hope Estes, and Claire Estes.

The funeral will be held Friday, May 9, at Cary First Baptist Church, 218 S. Academy St. Cary, NC 27511. The family will receive visitors at 11am with the funeral service immediately following at noon. Please send any donations to Cary First Baptist Church, 218 S Academy St, Cary, NC 27511. A graveside / committal will occur Friday, May 9, 2025, at 1:30 pm at Brier Creek Memorial Gardens, 7600 ACC Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27617.

Memorial tributes and messages of sympathy can be left below by clicking the "Add a Memory" box. Brown Wynne of Cary is honored to serve the Estes family.