John "Johnny" Wesley Stokes, Jr.

John (Johnny) Wesley Stokes, Jr. passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 12^th after a 10-month valiant battle with a glioblastoma.  He was 74 years old.

John was born on July 25, 1948, to John and Jacqueline Stokes in Wilson, NC.  He was a giving and caring person loved by all.

John is survived by his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Tamsy Hight Stokes.  They were married for 52 beautiful years and enjoyed spending time together and traveling the world.

Also surviving are his son, John III, brother, Gregg Stokes (Ginny), sister, Shirley Boyd (Andy), niece, Lindsay Stokes, and nephew, Kelvin Raper (Dana).  He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved nephew, Hunter Stokes.

John had a distinguished 30-year career in wholesale food distribution.  He worked his way up the corporate ladder from sales representative to division president and was respected by all of his co-workers.  He received many accolades and awards.  John and Tamsy moved many times during his career, and they always viewed each move as a new adventure.  In 2005, John retired from wholesale food distribution and bought a business in Chapel Hill so that he and Tamsy could be closer to family and worked there until May.

John loved all sports either as a participant or spectator.  He was an avid Carolina fan and season ticket holder for basketball, football, and baseball spanning over 47 years.

Serving his country in the US Army Reserve for six years was an honor and privilege for John.

A graveside committal will be held Saturday, July 15 at 11:30 am at Maplewood Cemetery, 400 College St. NE, Wilson. 

Remember John as a beautiful person and a life well lived.

Memorials to one of John’s favorite organizations are appreciated.  You may consider The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, the USO, The NC Food Bank, or the charity of your choice.

The family wants to thank Amedisys Hospice and all of John’s caregivers for their love and support during John’s journey.