John was born in Zephyrhills, Florida and grew up in Orlando. He proudly worked for OUC as a lineman for over 30 years before retiring.
John enjoyed watching John Wayne movies, fishing, boating and hunting but his love was the Lord, his family and his country.
He was survived by his loving wife of almost 34 years, Fay Heckle; children, Dale, Kenny, Melcolm, Donnie, Danny, David, Annette and Nikki; sisters, Dorothy, Joyce Ann, and Rachel; 17 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren; He was predeceased by his children, Johnny and Brenda and grandson, Jimmy.