John was a talented CDL dump truck driver and not only was he great at his job, he absolutely loved doing it. He was always willing to help anyone in need in any way possible. John loved being outdoors, enjoying nature by bass fishing and hunting. His hobbies included gardening, camping, ATV riding and was very creative in his woodworking. John was proud to be the 2016 Tyler Heart Walk Survivor, who led the walk that hundreds gathered to attend and raise funds for the American Heart Association. He was a phenomenal cook and knew his way around the kitchen and outdoor grills, smokers and blackstones. John looked up new recipes to try and was very passionate about creating food his family would enjoy. John was complimented so much on his cooking skills, that it's well known that he knows the secret to marinating and grilling the best steak known to man, even over any restaurant. He was eager and honored to spread the word of Jesus, and John loved to share his learned life experiences to guide others. He will be deeply missed by those who has the pleasure of knowing him.
John is survived by his loving wife, Summer Elia; children, Kalle Alana Elia, Trinity Diane Elia, and John Trenton Elia; step-children, Marissa Renee Gonzales, and Marcus Ray Gonzales; grandchildren, Presley Rae Sowell, Ezra Glen Randall, and Hadley Ray Carpenter; parents, Tommy Dale Elia and Rose Mary Elia; sister, Catherine (Will) Davis; and a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and close friends.
John is preceded in death by his grandparents, William Raymond and Leola Ruth Elia, and Pete and Evelyn Pitt; and great-grandmother, Ella Victoria Elia.
A time of visitation for John will be held Thursday, February 22, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm in the Chapel of Tyler Memorial Funeral Home. A celebration of life will occur Friday, February 23, 2024 at 10:00 am at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home, immediately followed by the graveside service at Carroll Springs Cemetery in Athens, Texas.
