John Francis Lanahan Jr.

Born in Jacksonville, Florida, John grew up with a love for sports, competition, and good company.

From his early days in swimming lanes, on football fields and basketball courts, to his decades on golf courses, tennis, racquetball and squash courts, John was simply the best, and he could back it up. John’s friends dubbed him “The Total Package.” Any court, any sport.

John played football for the Florida State Seminoles, from 1968 to 1971, and was captain his senior year. He was a defensive back and wore his lucky number 24.

He later founded Lanahan Insurance, which he successfully ran his entire career. His business mantra was, “you start off in this world pushing a rock uphill. We all do. But when you get to the other side of that hill, keep pushing. It’s just that simple.”

John’s passions extended beyond sports and work.

He loved the camaraderie of his golf buddies, a good Scotch, and the warmth of his family grilling steaks outside every Sunday night. John enjoyed taking the family boat out for sunset cruises, always accompanied by one of his beloved golden retrievers.

Known for his sharp wit (sarcasm), steady loyalty, and a boundless competitive spirit, he was a good man, with deep faith.

John Lanahan is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 43 years, whom he met on a blind date, his two sons, John and Taylor, their wives, Ally and Sarah, and his two grandsons, Cooper and Lawson.

John was one of five siblings. He is predeceased by his sister, Colleen, and survived by Jim, Moby, and Kevin. He also leaves lifelong friends who will carry forward countless stories that start with, “Remember that time with Lanahan….”

There will be a private family graveside service at Oaklawn Cemetery in Jacksonville, officiated by Father John Reynolds.

Donations may be made to Alzheimer's research, honoring John’s courage during his final life match, and the cause closest to his family’s heart. http://act.alz.org/goto/John_F_Lanahan_Jr

A public Celebration of Life event to honor the life of John Lanahan Jr. has been scheduled for September 6th in the St. Augustine room at San Jose Country Club (7529 San Jose Blvd) from 2-4pm. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served with refreshments. There will be short remarks from the family and others are welcome to speak and celebrate the life of John Lanahan Jr.