John was my son Anthony Simone Jr godfather. John was in the Simone family for 10 years. We always had fun with each other. John used to work at my father in laws pizzeria.  He lived with us in NJ for a long time.  I am so sorry for your loss John was a very sweet man.  Patti Simone goodson. 

Dear Travis, Zachary, and Heather.  You don’t know me but I have known your Dad/Husband for the better part of 30 years when I was just a young inexperienced sales executive working for a small, unknown, software vendor.  You see I was trying to sell your Dad/Husband who at the time was the Chief Operating Officer at Allstate an expensive middle office system.  For some reason your Dad/Husband took a liking to me and asked me to meet up with him in Las Vegas where he was attending Allstate’s Top Producers annual conference and I happened to be vacationing there with my girlfriend.  This had to be in the early 1990’s. We met up at a small casino off the strip where Johnny O as I fondly came to know him, taught me how to play craps and 6 hours later we both won a ton of  money and started a life long friendship.  You see, if it wasn't for your Dad/Husband I would not have had the success that I enjoy today in my career.  Not only was he responsible for Allstate buying that expensive middle office system which by the way was the largest deal in my companies history at the time but he also bought from me as he moved up the corporate ladder at AMSouth, Regions, Raymond James and Stifel.  I’ll never forget the last time that I had dinner with him in  St.Louis we got to talking and I asked him why he was so good to me over the years.  He said “Joe, that’s easy, it’s all about the relationship”. You see, for Johnny O it was always about the people and his relationship with those people.  It was that simple. Not sure why he took that liking to me.  Maybe because I reminded him of some of his friends in his old neighborhood.  Maybe because I took the time to spend a night with him in Vegas.  But I think mostly it was because he just wanted to help out and inexperienced  sales executive just trying to make his way.  That is the type of person he was and will always love him that.  I will Miss you my friend.  

Please accept my sympathy and prayers for comfort.  I remember John's ever present smile and his upbeat greetings whenever we happened to see each other at Stifel  events, or just in the halls or elevators.  His kind presence will be missed.

In the summer of 2019, my niece brought her 3 year old down to the office to visit me.  As I was taking Katie around to "show her off",  John came out of his office and had quite a conversation with Katie.  It was really special and he was so good with her - I can remember his smile and kindness very vividly right now.  John, you were a bright spot in this world and will truly be missed.

I had the pleasure of working with John for the last 8 years, but feeling like  I knew him my entire life. His kindness, caring, wit & humor made him one of a kind. "Big Hearted John" will be sorely missed by anyone who knew him. Rest in Peace my friend. 

High school days and nights to remember forever. You will be missed my friend John.

I just wanted to say that I am very sorry for your loss and may God rest John's soul! He was so nice and was always smiling. He had a beautiful smile. May God give you peace, comfort and love as you go through this difficult time.

Kelsey Walker

I had the pleasure of working with John at Morgan Keegan. He was tremendous at finding solutions to difficult problems. He did a great job doing a tough job. Thankful to have known him and know he will be missed by many.

One of the most kind hearted and fun loving individuals I’ve had the pleasure of knowing-both personally and professionally. You will truly be missed Johnny O! Condolences and prayers to the family. 

JO was quite special.....big hearted , incredibly kind, terrifically accomplished professionally, exemplary father, and a wonderful friend.

Thoughts, prayers and condolences.

American Diabetes Association

The American Cancer Society

Family To Receive Friends

Funeral Service

Harry and Ellen Olsen

Heather Smith

Travis and Zachary Olsen

Ann Olsen

Harry Olsen III (Sarah Olsen)

Harry Olsen IV, Grace Olsen and Anna Olsen

Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

John Olsen

immediate need

OBITUARY

John "Johnny O" Gerald Olsen

February 27, 1968 – May 23, 2021

Memphis Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens

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