John E. Lunsford Jr. was surrounded by loved ones as he passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 28, 2018.
He was born in Columbus, Georgia in 1944 to his beloved parents, Willie Thelma Lunsford and Johnny E. Lunsford Sr. With John’s attention to detail, he accelerated to become the first chair clarinetist in the Jordan High School Red Jackets marching band in Columbus, Georgia. Because of his love for his country, John also served in the Army immediately following his college graduation, as well as 5 years in the National Guard.
In 1968, John graduated from Georgia Tech with a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering. In 1969, he was hired for the Sales Department of Pye-Barker Supply Company, now located in Forest Park. Desiring to further increase his knowledge, the new father pursued his Master’s Degree in Business Administration while also working full-time. Ten years later, he moved forward to purchase the company that had hired him.
Over recent years, John dealt with a variety of health issues, but his mind for business remained brilliant. The executive possessed an intense desire to remain involved with his company, which he loved so dearly. Thank-
fully, the long-term business relationships that had been formed and the entrusted staff he helped assemble enabled the business to move forward to fulfill what John envisioned when purchasing the company 37 years ago.
The 73 year old was preceded in death by his mother and father as well as his sister, Shirley Lunsford Hasty. The Georgia native is survived by his former wife and close friend, Sandy Lunsford. John will be lovingly remembered by his son, Eric Lunsford (Margaret) and his daughter, Laura Faulkner (Phil). John was especially excited about the birth of his granddaughters, Jessica Lunsford and Sarah Faulkner. He is also survived by his loving nieces and a nephew.
Visitation will take place Friday, March 2, 2018, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Mowell Funeral Home, Fayetteville, Georgia. The funeral will be held Saturday, March 3, 2018, 4 p.m. at Liberty Baptist Church, Fayetteville. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to The American Heart Association, www.heart.org.
Carl J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home, Fayetteville – www.mowellfuneralhome.com
