John Henry “Big John” Lankford entered into rest September 22, 2012 in Manteca, California, where he joined his parents, 3 brothers, 3 sisters, 4 nephews, and 3 nieces.
He was born in Henry Grove, Texas on September 15, 1925 to his parents Charles P. and Francis Louise Lankford.
When he was a teenager the family sold their farm and moved to Roswell, New Mexico and continued farming and he met the love of his life, Jimmie Ezzell. They were married shortly after he went into the US Army at Hugo, Oklahoma on May 13, 1945.
In the army he rose to the rank of Sergeant and was awarded World War II Victory Medal – Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal – Philippine Independence Ribbon. After the army in 1948, John and Jimmie moved to Manteca, California. He worked for Sharpe Army Depot for over 28 years.
John is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jimmie, one daughter Agnes Webb and her husband Gene of Coeur D’alene, Idaho; he was blessed with 6 grandchildren, Matthew Webb of Manteca, LD Webb and wife Naomi of Chattaroy, WA, Hoyt Webb of Wheeling W. Virginia, Abigale Webb of Mannisfield, PA, Angela Littlell and husband, Rodney of Genoa, S. Carolina, and Andrea Woempner and husband Dale of Rothdrum, Idaho. He was also blessed with 9 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild of Arizona.
John had been a member of Free and Accepted Masons over 60 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and most of all his family. He was an avid CB Operator known to all as Blue Dog. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was a friend to everyone he met.
Arrangements for Mr. Lankford are under the direction of P.L. Fry and Son Funeral Home, 290 North Union Road, Manteca. Visitation will be Friday, September 28, 2012 from 1 to 5 p.m. Graveside services will be held Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 2 p.m. at East Union Cemetery, 1035 North Union Road.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to a charity of your choice. An online guestbook is available at www.plfryandson.com for condolences.
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
