I never had a better friend than John Shoaf. What does it say about me or about the transient nature of the way we live our lives that I let a friendship slip away? 
 I met John in North Carolina in 1981. My wife, Connie, and I became good friends with John and his then wife, Marian. When she was transferred to Philadelphia, John gave us a puppy from the litter of their dog, Penelope. We named our dog Bridgette, and we loved her for fifteen years. We were able to visit John and Marian numerous times in Philadelphia. John was always there for me to discuss my career choices and life decisions. I have moved numerous times in the past three years and lost touch with John. I last spoke with him in early 2003. He didn't tell me that he was sick. By the time he knew, he probably did not know how to reach me. 
I was so busy that I didn't take the time to track him down. When I tried to do so, I couldn't reach him at his old numbers. I remembered that he was from San Antonio. Tonight I researched all the Shoafs there and was able to reach John's Mom. She told me what had happened. I am devastated. 
John was such a vibrant, electric personality that I just can't believe he's gone. I am so regretful that I wasn't able to comfort him in his time of pain. 
I have learned a tremendous lesson tonight. You have to keep friends close. They are too precious and life is so fleeting. 
God Bless all of his family. Please realize that beyond all of what he was for you, he was a wonderful friend.

JOHN WAS A GOOD FRIEND TO ME FOR MANY YEARS WHEN I WORKED IN BANKING. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HIS KINDNESS TO ALL, GREAT SMILE AND SENSE OF HUMOR.

It is with sorrow that I have learned that John has passed away. I have not seen John since he was "Johnny" and we were in high school. For this reason, he will be forever young in my memory. 
 I was in classes with John beginning in grade school. He was a really nice person, even then, when so many bullies abounded. 
 I look forward to seeing John in Heaven and getting to know him better in the place where he will still never grow old in my mind. 
 May our Father send the Holy Spirit to comfort all those who know and loved John. 
 Blessings in Him, 
Neka Scarbrough-Jenkins aka Betty Ann Sistrunk <

Mr.and Mrs.Shoaf I worked with John at Fox Morris in the late eighties. I can remember vividly his distinctive laugh, his sense of humour and his big heart. 
He had a great love for his family and all things Texan. He would proudly proclaim his fifth generation Texan status and always spoke so highly of both of you. I am pleased to have known John if only for a short period of time. I found myself smiling alot today as I recalled many memories of John and our days at Fox Morris. 
It is ironic somewhat that my grandson is in fact a Native Texan. He has the banner to prove it.My sympathy to you and your family.

I AM SADDENED TO LEARN OF THE PASSING AWAY OF JOHN. ALL DAY I HAVE BEEN REMINISCING ABOUT TIMES SPENT GROWNING UP TOGETHER. GOOD TIMES AT CHURCH FUNCTIONS, RIDING BIKES ALL OVER TOWN, FISHING TOGETHER, RACING CARS AT DICK'S HOBBY SHOP, DOVE HUNTING NORTH OF TOWN WHICH WOULD NOW BE CONSIDED NORTHERN HILLS AND PLAYING BASKETBALL. JOHN LOVED TO PLAY BASKETBALL. WE HAD MANY GOOD TIMES AND A LOT OF LAUGHS TOGETHER. 
I WILL NEVER FORGET THESE TIMES AND MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH JOHN'S FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

Strength and love comes from our Lord and your friends at Mt. Calvary, Barbara

I would like to give my condolences to all the family and friends of John. Especially Mr & Mrs. Shoaf, you will be in my thoughts and prayers, and may the lord be with you always.

OBITUARY

John Martin Shoaf

1 June, 1952 – 16 December, 2003

Porter Loring Mortuary - McCullough

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