John Bryant Hobgood

HOBGOOD John Bryant Hobgood, "J.B.", age 85, passed away with grace September 17, 2005. Husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, John is remembered with love for a full life of honor, public service and devotion to God. He was a 23 year veteran of the U.S. Army who served here at home and in Germany, Japan, the Philippines and North Africa. As a decorated Veteran, he was selected the "1966 Serviceman of the Year" at the Defense Construction Supply Center in Columbus, Ohio. In 1964 while in Africa, John received a commendation from the American Ambassador to Ethiopia for his outstanding volunteer work with Ethiopian youth. He held an ardent belief in community service and was awarded the "Keys to the City" by Mayor M.E. Sensenbrenner. Civic activities included being an enthusiastic volunteer with the Big Brother, Big Sister organization; a founding Trustee of the Southfield Community Baptist Church and President Emeritus of the Alum Crest Acres Community Association. In addition, he worked with various other southside civic groups. Following retirement from the Army, he spent several years as a new car salesman in Columbus, earning awards for superior salesmanship. Born in Kinston, North Carolina, November 11, 1919 to the late Cruder and Zelphia Hobgood. John earned a B.S. degree in Business Administration from North Carolina College. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Gladys M. Hobgood; devoted son, Johnny M. Hobgood of Laguna Beach, CA.; daughters, Essie P. Hobgood of Columbus, Kathy A. Johnson of Sarasota, FL.; grandchildren, Jhonathon Craig of Sarasota, FL., Imani Johnson of Columbus; cherished great-grandson, Imaud Tye of Columbus; beloved brother, Eugene Hobgood of New York City, N.Y.; dear sister, Lauretta Orgain of Newport News, VA.; numerous other loved relatives and friends. Home going service 1 p.m. Thursday, September 29, 2005 at the Southfield Community Baptist Church, 1399 Augmont Ave. Rev. James A. Carter, Sr., Officiant. The family will receive friends from 12Noon until the time of service. Interment with Military Honors is to follow at Glen Rest Memorial Estates. Arrangements by C.D. WHITE & SON FUNERAL HOME, 1217 Mt. Vernon Ave.