Celebrating the Life of John H. McLemore Obituary Born in March 1939 in Sylacauga, Alabama, John H. McLemore was the second of thirteen children born to Ralph and Vada C. McLemore. Raised in a large and loving family, he learned early the values of faith, perseverance, service, and devotion to family that would guide his life. As a youth, John was an active Boy Scout and attended the National Boy Scout Jamboree in California, an experience he fondly remembered that left an indelible impression and engendered a deep devotion to his family, community, and country. 

From a young man into adulthood, John demonstrated a lifelong commitment to justice and equality. He was among those present at the historic 1963 March on Washington led by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His commitment to service extended into the community through his involvement with the African Cultural Society, African Cultural Society Steel Pan Band, and the Flagler County NAACP. 

John attended East Highland High School, where he proudly played football wearing jersey number 44. John honorably served his country in the United States Air Force before embarking on a distinguished career with the New York City Transit Authority. As a Motorman, he safely transported countless New Yorkers and became known for his reliability, professionalism, and unwavering work ethic. After 26 years of dedicated service, he retired from the Transit Authority. He was an active member of New York City Transit Retirees Association, Chapter 2.

 In 1963, John married the love of his life, Hermione G. Gross, and together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and community. Their union was blessed with 63 years of marriage. They made their home in Laurelton, New York, where they faithfully worshiped at Grace United Methodist Church in St. Albans. Following retirement, they relocated and settled in Palm Coast, Florida, where they became active members of Palm Coast United Methodist Church (Dr. Kevin M. James Sr.).

 Family was John's greatest treasure. He adored his wife, Hermione. He took immense pride in his daughters, Traci and Nicole, and found immeasurable joy in his beloved granddaughter, Tyler, affectionately known as his "#1 Princess." 

John possessed a curious mind and a love of learning. He enjoyed geography, science fiction, and staying informed about world events. He loved photography, baking, traveling, and experiencing new cultures and cuisines. Even when he could not travel himself, he delighted in hearing about the adventures of others and exploring the world through their stories. John will be remembered for his generous spirit, sage advice, strong character, and steadfast dedication to those he loved. He believed in hard work, helping others, and leaving every place better than he found it. 

John peacefully transitioned on October 16, 2026, following a prolonged illness. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Nathaniel, Linda, Edward, Harold, Daisy, Stanley, and Virginia McLemore. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Hermione G. McLemore; his loving daughters, Traci McLemore and Nicole M. McLemore; his #1 Princess, granddaughter, Tyler I. McLemore-Brooks; his brothers, James McLemore (Mallum) and Llewellyn McLemore (Jennifer); his sisters, Emily Phillips, Connie Cummings (Howard) and Contessa Willingham (Michael); his sisters-in-law: Lula Mae McLemore, Shirley Gross, Cassandra McNair, Rev. Dr. Brenda Gross Nixon, and Gloria Alfreda Gross Green; lifelong friends Charles Brown, Tony Hale, and Harold Looney; his three godsons Timothy Gross, Devin John McLemore and devoted caregiver, Robert Dion Williams; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

A loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend, John lived with purpose, integrity, and quiet strength. He taught through example that family comes first, hard work matters, and kindness leaves a lasting legacy. His wisdom guided many, his generosity touched countless lives, and his love provided a foundation upon which generations will continue to build. Though he has departed this earthly life, John's legacy of faith, wisdom, love, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him. His memory will live in the hearts of his family and friends forever. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in John's memory to the Euell A. Wilson Center, an after-school and summer program for children and families (www.euellwilsoncenter.org) in honor of his commitment to community, service, and faith.