John Gilbert Wynn Esq.

John Gilbert Wynn, Sr., born on May 8,1933 in Portsmouth, Virginia, was an extraordinary man whose life reflected a deep love for family, unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements, both professionally and personally. He was the only child of Carrie Ruth Broadnax and Booker T. Wynn. When John was five his mother remarried Thomas Williford, a devoted stepfather who became a steadfast and positive influence in his life.

In primary school, John quickly proved himself to be a gifted and diligent student. He had an exceptional ability to grasp lessons swiftly, so much so, that his teachers often entrusted him with leading the class.

His natural ability to teach and support his peers was a testament to his intelligence and leadership.

John’s leadership qualities continued to shine during his time at I.C. Norcom High School, Portsmouth, VA, where he served as Business Manager for his class, participated in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Program, and played sports. After graduating with high honors in June 1951, John pursued his dream of becoming a pilot by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. However, his aptitude for mathematics and physics was quickly recognized and he was encouraged to pursue a career in engineering.

In 1955, he retired from the Air Force as a First Lieutenant, earning a National Defense Service Medal for his service. John enrolled in Howard University in Washington, DC to study engineering, supported by the GI Bill. He married his first wife, Clorice Yvonne Watson, and together they welcomed five children, John Jr., Ronald, Dawn-Richelle, Desiree, and Danielle. Despite the challenges of balancing school and family life, John graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in engineering in June 1959.

John’s engineering career was both groundbreaking and impactful. As one of the first Black engineers to integrate companies in the US, he made significant contributions while working for organizations such as Radio Corporation of America (RCA), The Martin Co (later Lockheed Martin), NASA, and Ling-Temco-Vought Corporation. General Electric (G.E.) supported his further education, and he earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering from Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia in 1970.

On Feb 14,1970, he married his beloved wife Barbara Virginia Staten and they became proud parents of their daughter Zakiya.

Once again John’s talent and dedication were noted and he was recruited into IBM’s patent law training program. Balancing work and education, he served as a patent advisor by day while attending Catholic University Law School at night. In 1976 he earned his Juris Doctor degree. His career as Patent Counsel at the Office of the Chief of Naval Research spanned 25 years during which he received numerous commendations.

John strongly believed in the importance of education. He believed that a good education provides the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate life, build a successful career, make informed decisions, and

contribute positively to society. He saw it as a path to personal growth and a fulfilling life.With this belief at his core, he encouraged his children and grandchildren to seek higher education.

Beyond his professional life, John was a passionate bowler. Not only was he an avid player, but a certified coach, and even invented a specialized bowling ball. He was a proud member and chapter founder of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. A self proclaimed audiophile and music lover, he was always in pursuit of the perfect surround sound experience. In retirement, John cherished spending quality time with family.

John passed away peacefully on Feb 10,2025 at the age of 91. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit, wisdom, and contributions will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

John was preceded in death by his infant daughter Danielle Denise Wynn, son John G. Wynn, Jr. (Celeste), and his loving wife of 42 years Barbara S. Wynn. He is survived by his children, Ronald A.Wynn (Diane), Dawn-Richelle Wynn, Desiree A. Cole (Joseph M.), and Zakiya J. Wynn, MD, sister -in-law Florence Beverly Boone, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will continue to cherish his memory.

A visitation for John will be held Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home, 3401 Bladensburg Rd, Brentwood, Maryland 20722, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.