John Wayne Lumpkin

John Wayne Lumpkin, 77, of Cabot, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, after a massive stroke. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God, John Wayne’s life was a testament to love, service, and laughter.

Born on February 24, 1948, in West Helena, Arkansas, to the late Annie Bell White and George Lumpkin Sr., John Wayne was raised with strong values and a deep sense of family. After graduating from Eliza Miller High School in 1967, he pursued his passion for justice by studying Criminal Justice at Madonna University.

A proud veteran, John Wayne honorably served in the U.S. Marine Corps before beginning his career at Chrysler as a line worker. His dedication to protecting and serving others led him to a 30-year career with Detroit Public Schools as a Public Safety Officer, where he touched countless lives with his wisdom and unwavering commitment.

John’s journey into fatherhood began in October 1972, when DaMon Marcel was born. In September 1978, John Wayne’s life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Linda Johnson, at Grace Temple Church of God in Christ in Detroit, Michigan. Their love story blossomed, and they married on November 3, 1979, building a beautiful family of three children: Tyra Kashawn Coffey, Kenaan Wayne Lumpkin, and Kalisa Lynette Lumpkin.

After retiring in 2010, John Wayne devoted his time to faith, family, and fellowship. He could often be found reading his Bible, praying, recording uplifting YouTube videos, volunteering at Hope’s Closet, or enjoying praise and worship music. His playful spirit shone through in his love for fussing, farting (if you know, you know!), and spoiling his beloved dog, Ellie. Above all, he cherished moments with his family, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and unconditional love.

John Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Annie and George; his brother, Willie; his sister, Johnnie; and his son, DaMon.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 45 years, Linda Nell Lumpkin; his children, Tyra (Michale), Kenaan (Marsha), and Kalisa; three sisters, Dollie, Susie, and Rena; two brothers, George and Benny; sisters-in-law Brenda, Ronnie, Carla, Kay, Dorris, Connie, Bessie, and Lisa; brothers-in-law Kerry, Mike, Jerry, Carl and Cebic; 14 grandchildren: Michale Jr., Javan, Devin, Twoey (Damon), Richard, Dawn, Rhema, Zion, Naomi-Grace, Rose, Serenity, Melody, Rubilyn, and Ryann; one great-grandchild, Alayna Rose; and bonus grandchildren: Javan, Toi, Kamecyla, Tiara, Tikoya, Zyrie, and Zoey. 8 God Children Rozell, Ronell, Jameka, Fred Jr, Kaliyah, Kenya, Daimoen, and Jonathan.

Lots of nieces, nephews, friends, classmates, colleagues, church friends, and neighbors, all of whom heard about Jesus if you had at least 1 conversation with Bro Lumpkin, John Wayne, or Uncle John!!!

Eliza Miller C/O 67

Semper Fi

A visitation will be held Thursday, July 24, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harry J Will Funeral Home, 25450 Plymouth Rd, Redford, Michigan 48239.

A family hour will be held, Friday, July 25, from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Revival Tabernacle, 16455 Woodward Ave, Highland Park, Michigan 48203, followed by a funeral service beginning at 11:30 AM, where John will be receiving military honors. A live stream of the service will be available.