With great sorrow we announce that John Franklin Emory, Jr., aged 68, born January 13, 1954, passed away in his sleep on July 16, 2022, at his beloved homeplace on the Emory Farm in Choudrant, Louisiana.  John, who attended Ruston High School and Louisiana Tech University, was predeceased by his parents, John Franklin Emory, Sr. and Sallie Edwards Emory, his brother, Paul Emory; and sister-in-law, Judy Emory.  John, Jr., as he was affectionately called by many, was a devoted son to his wonderful parents; we all saw John with his Mom on his arm shopping or out to lunch; and after his Mom’s passing, John visited his Dad daily and always included him in social functions.  John was also a dear brother to Paul, who tragically was lost too young, and to his sister-in-law Judy.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, John Franklin Emory, III “John Franklin”, his son’s mother, Pamela Trisler Reeves, his brother Larry Emory and his wife, Cheryl, his brother Douglas Emory along with his wife, Sherrie, and their two children, Reba and Mark. John is also survived by many Edwards and Emory cousins, nieces and nephews.  The happiest days of John’s life revolved around “John Franklin” from nurturing a dark-haired little boy to the man he is today, including much music, education, fun, and laughter with lots of help from Pam, with whom John always maintained a strong and caring friendship. His brother Larry instilled abiding faith, while his youngest brother, Douglas, who was born when John was seventeen years old, gave John great joy watching Douglas and his family grow up.

In a single word, John can best be described as a “Gentleman”.  He never strayed far from his family and friends in Lincoln Parish.  His journey through life, be it at home, school, church, work or in the community, brought him in contact with many. He gathered friends as easily as most of us gather pennies.  His outgoing personality, charm, kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness made John a true friend.  He was always the first to check up on someone, send a thoughtful gift (not limited to flowers or pecans) and stood by you in good times and bad. You never questioned or doubted his friendship.

Let’s not forget that John, Jr. had an incredible zest for life, as reflected by his work in the community.  He did it all, from heading up the Peach Parade to starring in a play at the Dixie Theater. John was always out and about, helping or just joining in.  He had a presence about him, with shining blue eyes, perfectly groomed hair, starched shirt and jeans, boots, and when appropriate, even a cowboy hat.

Many people had the privilege of calling John son, brother, Dad, uncle and friend. He will be deeply missed and sweetly remembered.

And by the way, he kept an immaculate house and a great yard.

– Special thanks to Lee and Mary Waltman for preparing this obituary. The family asks that memorials in John Jr’s honor be made to Dixie Center for the Arts or the Arbor Day Foundation. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com

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