John L. Washington

John Lemuel Washington, 74 was born to the late Jack Lucius and Mildred Alice Washington on September 7, 1940 in Plainview, TX. At the age of four he moved to Richmond, CA where he attended both Elementary & Middle schools. In 1958 he graduated from Richmond Union High School and later obtained a college degree from West Hills College. John passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2014.

Shortly after graduating High School he joined the US Navy where he served for 30 years and retired as Master Chief Petty Officer of the entire Pacific Fleet. After his retirement from the Navy, he worked as a Kings County Probation Officer for the next 16 years. Even during his professional careers he was involved with mentoring youth and adults, coaching youth baseball and a great father to not only his five children but countless others in the community. His passions were golf, racquetball and working on his many Volkswagens.

During his younger years he met and later married the love of his life and beautiful wife, Clora Mae Howard on July 3, 1964. They remained married for 48 wonderful years until her passing on June 7, 2012.

To this union, five children were born: Ronald Washington-Hawkins of Brentwood, CA; Angie Harlan of Antioch, CA; April, Anthony and Ryan Washington all of Hanford, CA. Two adopted daughters: Margaret Benton of Gardenia, CA and Kecia Johnson of Oakland, CA and One Godson, Chris Wilson, Sr. of Hanford, CA.

Preceding him in death was his sister De Lois Jean Wickliff. He leaves to mourn his passing, three brothers: James Washington of Las Vegas, NV; Clarence Washington of San Leandro, CA and Michael Belser of Sacramento, CA; three sisters: Emelder Roe of Oakland, CA; Diease Thompson of Richmond, CA and Barbara Austin of Vallejo, CA. He also leaves to mourn 16 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, his loving companion and best friend his dog, “Blue” and a host of family and friends.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, November 24, 2014 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. all at People’s Funeral Chapel; 501 N. Douty Street, Hanford, CA 93230 559-584-5591.

Services are under the direction of People’s Funeral Chapel.