John M. Doe

January 1st, 19XX - December 31st, 20XX

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of John M. Doe, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend.



John M. Doe, of Springville, Alabama passed away on Sunday August 18, 20XX after reaching the age of 92 years old. After months of failing health, he died peacefully within his home in Springville Alabama with his Beloved wife Iola and children (Jacqueline and Carl) by his side.



John was born on July 21, 19XX in Greenville, AL to Essie Mae Crenshaw and Leeson Smith. As a boy he lived mostly on a farm with his grandmother, working odd jobs to support himself and his family.



As a very young man he learned to work hard and to take on whatever job was available to support himself. He worked in ore mines, steel mills, oil refineries, blacksmith shops and farmed, if necessary.

He was an early entrepreneur and ran several “small businesses,” out of everything from a friend’s garage, to a neighbor’s barn or even a make shift roadside stand.



In 1942, he met the love of his life, Iola Harris. They lived together almost inseparable for over 70 years. The early times were difficult financially; John and Iola made many tough choices in those days, including leaving several of their children to be kept for a time in Springville by John's mother Essie Mae, while they made their way to Buffalo, NY.

While in Buffalo, John worked many jobs, but primarily as a Crane Operator with Republic Steel. Along side him, Iola also worked many jobs but spent most of their working years together as a Beautician in the shop she owned on East Utica Avenue.



He was a good father who always took care of his children and did the best he could to teach and guide them, a loving grandfather and “great-grand” father to many.



A man who never cared much about himself and who even in his final days would say to his loved ones, “just to take care of “Ola” when I’m gone”.

John was a strong, proud and good man. He is loved and will be missed by many!



The funeral service will be held on December 31st, 20XX at 11am. The service will be restricted to immediate family only. It will be streamed real time and the link will be available on this website. In lieu of sending flowers, donations can be made to the charity of John's choice. The link is located at the top of the page.