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John David "Little John" Bury

Obituary

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John Bury Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 1, 2008.

GREENSBORO — Little John David Bury, 44, passed away on Wednesday, January 30, 2008, at Moses Cone Hospital.

A memorial service will be held at his residence, 3446 McConnell Road on Saturday, February 9, from 12 noon until.

John was born on February 13, 1963, in Jackson, Mich., to James E. and Carol Watts Bury. Lil' John was an internationally known tattoo artist and the owner of Little John's Tattoo Shops. He raised friendly pit bulls and loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. He also enjoyed painting and drawing.

He is survived by his daughter, Jasminn Ashley Bury; granddaughter, Jayla Amir Bury; parents, James And Carol Watts Bury of Lynchburg, Va.; sister, Jami Bury Forsch and husband, Robert; brothers, Jim Bury and wife, Brenna, Jassen Bury and wife, Kathy; two nieces, Leithia Eppard and Megan Ashwell; three nephews, James Bury, III, Jordyn Bury, and Alan Eppard; and all the crew of Little John's Tattoo Shop.

Hanes Lineberry N. Elm Chapel is assisting the Bury family.

Offer condolences at www. news-record.com/nr/obits/

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Recent Activity

November 20, 2018

chris Patterson posted to the memorial.

January 9, 2009

Joe Johns posted to the memorial.

November 18, 2008

BRIAN ARNOLD posted to the memorial.

182 Entries

chris Patterson

November 20, 2018

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Joe Johns

January 9, 2009

john what a ride 20 years sense i first met you i was just a greenhorn tattooist dreaming of a life in tattooing you showed me how it all works we met an befriended a lot of now well known artists over the years been all over the world together we road to vegas from PA an onto Sturgis there are so many life memory's i have spent all of my sober years knowing an loving you ride on brother i will catch up sooner or later pirates life for me love JOE JOHNS

BRIAN ARNOLD

November 18, 2008

I just found out yesterday,John, taught me alot about tattooing in a lil dumpy hotel on Lakeside Dr.in Lynchburg,VA in the mid 80's years later I had the priveledge to be his and Steve Lotts' flunkie at PERSONAL EXPRESSIONS in Mad.Hgts.Va I've learned alot about tattooing and I've forgotten alot about tattooing,but I'll(nor will anyone whosever met LITTLE JOHN) ever forget him his style his demeanor or his ZEST and LOVE for life and TATTOOING!

September 30, 2008

Just found out this weekend. Little John It has been a while, Rode with ya, Tatt party at my house, Helped in my recovery, You are missed by many I Know. Thanks for the friendship, fun, Tatts and the rides we took around the country. RIP

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Ken Hogan

August 15, 2008

I only have to look at my skin to remember Little John daily. He has placed upon my body many memories of our sessions. I also remember the trip down to VA to their wedding in which my bike literally split in half while riding it. (God?) He will be fondly missed. I can only wait to meet again so we may talk and have him finish his canvas he started here on earth.

Greg Cann

August 10, 2008

What a shock to hear of your passing, Little John... you knew me as 'Master Cann'. The way you treated me back in the early 90's and when I started in the Tattoo world a few years later did not diminish... I have always respected you for that... I still have the post card you sent me from Bali...it will always be one of my treasures.
You will be missed my Brother.
Semper Fi
Greg Cann
GySgt USMC (Ret)

Johnny Mac

July 21, 2008

Johnny was a gem!We'll see each other again when the pirates take over Heaven,with Jesus as our captain my friend.Live on and on brother!!!!

RODNEY

April 14, 2008

YOU HAVE BEEN A GREAT INSPIRATION IN MY TATTOOING CAREER IM ONLY IN MY SIXTH YEAR BUT YOU WERE ALWAYS SOMEONE I LOOKED UP TOO REST IN PEACE BROTHER WE WILL MISS YOU

"DOUBLE D"

March 31, 2008

I miss you Brother it was nice working with you! We had a lot of laughs. Glad to be a fellow Artist!
"DOUBLE D"

bean're AKA Nibs

March 13, 2008

We met in the Phoenix almost 20 years ago. we rode up and down the eastern coast several times together. I was with John when he met Donna. When I got my very first credit card the first charge I made was tattoo work from John. We have both been through so much together and apart. You will be missed. You were one of my few true brothers. We will ride togther again.

Joshua Williams

March 7, 2008

John not enough words I just rember riding with you tony and steve to the mountains it was just you and me on the way home now you ride forever brother the sky is yours thank you for the love say hi to pat and give him a big hug from me and the ink still looks awsome i will miss you

Barbara Harper

March 4, 2008

This is a an excerpt of a Poem that I shared with Jami,Little John's Sister and I would like to share with all of you .

If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered Joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss.
Ah yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My Life's been full, I savored much.
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me Now, He set me Free

My Sincere and Heartfelt Sympathy to the entire family.

Barbara

Michelle Brewer

March 3, 2008

To All: The best way to remember LJ is to get the tattoo that you wanted. I am glad to hear that the shop will remain open, because that is what he would want. The shop will be lonesome without him, but over time, it will get easier. His staff is of the greatest quality. If they weren't they would not be there. There are not enough words to express sorrow when a beautiful loss is gone. We were not close to LJ, but my husband and I have been in the shop a million times and have been tatted by Rusty, Gabe, Jason, Rick, and Holly. I remember asking LJ once to bring out one of the pits so that I could rub him and he did. He is a nice person and will be missed all over the world. The best way to remember and feel his spirit is to go to the shop, and get that tattoo! The shop is his memorial, where we can all go to remember him. RIP LJ---Jerald, Michelle, Kristin, and Kayla

Jimmy "JR" Richmond

March 2, 2008

I hated to hear about John. It definitely was a shock. He will be missed by many.

Sandi Sanderson

February 23, 2008

I will always remember when Amy was born and they wouldn't let Mike in to see her and they called security and you told them they better call a few more because you were going to see her.We made you her godfather then and I remember that christmas that you brought her
gifts. You really were Little John,You really did give to the poor.That was before the tatoo days.I will never forget you.
Love,Sandi, Amy and family

John & Michelle Fuller/Tattoo Zekes

February 19, 2008

you will be greatly missed!!! R.I.P

Jenny Engler

February 18, 2008

You will be missed by everyone who knew you. Keep an eye on all us down here, Little John!!

Nappy's Sports Bar and Henerys Biker Bar

February 15, 2008

we miss riding with you. we will miss your art. i never would let you put a tatoo on me but i came close. keep on riding in the sky

Beth Zienty

February 13, 2008

God took a great man from us, but now he is sittin up there lookin down to watch over all of us. thanks for all the great tats man. U knew how to make me laugh...

Joyce Caudle

February 11, 2008

Jaz I will miss your dad I enjoy the time that we spent together and the riding time we had together he was one of my best friends.If you need anything at all please call.

Randy Richmond

February 10, 2008

I am saddened to learn that Little John has passed away. He was a great artist an a wonderful promoter. I got a tattoo from him at a Charlotte NC convention and had a blast watching him pick on my "hippie" girlfriend, while he did it. I still have the tattoo and the hippie girlfriend. Hope they both stick with me forever. God Speed Little John!!

Sincerely,
Randy Richmond

Lots of great memories

February 10, 2008

He's watchin' you

February 10, 2008

per LJ's wishes

February 10, 2008

James Fant

February 9, 2008

I am extremely grateful for being able to say goodbye to you today John and for the insight you gave to me even when I wasn't ready to listen to it. You have had a profound impact on my life and I will miss you.

mike white

February 9, 2008

great memorial service, pirates will be remembered

Richard Owens

February 9, 2008

Little John never knew how much he had help me come out of my shell He was a good guy who gave alot of himself to help others There is great loss and he will be very missed Thanks rest now my friend

Darien Norman

February 8, 2008

Man, Little John what a warm hearted guy.

Met 12years ago when he gave me my first tat became friends ever since. Our Family's and Friends would go to the Melting Pot and Market Street West. Good times, Good food, Good talks.

I moved back just 6 months ago planning to do it again. Wanted to introduce you to my sons and daughter. Too Late ... I will miss you Lil John

Jeff Bury

February 8, 2008

A Friend To Some, A Hero To Many, A Legend To All!!!
True Legends Never Die, As You Will Live Forever!!!

His Laboring Few

February 8, 2008

All of us here in the Triad Chapter of His Laboring Few Biker Ministry of Jesus Christ would like to express or deepest sympathy and send out our hearts to the family and friends. We have ALL of you in our prayers. God Bless!

Chris Perrin

February 8, 2008

John, I only met you one time, but you inspired me to become better. Your care free spirit is one that should be passed on to others. I will always remember you. You are in my prayers.

todd and joy whitt

February 7, 2008

May god be with the family, friends, during there time of morning. God bless the employee's co:Little John Tatoo Shop that is true love to hold your head high and "Keep ON Inking ON " God Rest His Soul!!!!! Mr.& Mrs. Whitt

Terry Manning Wildcard Studios

February 7, 2008

Thanks for the many years of inspiration my friend. You will be greatly missed.
Terry Manning and the Wildcard Family

Norma Rae Bradshaw

February 7, 2008

I met Little John about 10 years ago, when my dad was first getting inked. I wanted to be a tattoo artist and Little John was always saying he would let me work around the shop. I enjoyed every conversation I had with Little John, and I will cherish my ink forever.

Jessica Turner

February 6, 2008

Rest in peace.

Jassen and Kathy Bury

February 6, 2008

We love you John, and you will be missed greatly by all who knew you.

Jean (BODY EXPRESSIONS)

February 6, 2008

After only meeting him 1 time at my shop when he visited he left an impression. He was all smiles and very friendly. I know he will be missed by all. My Prayers with the family. God Bless You All.

deena wood

February 6, 2008

little john, i'll always keep you in my heart and i'll ride the pink pig in heaven beside you on our way to lunch with the rest of our friends. miss you love, deena wood/ lynchburg,va.

Glen Emenhiser

February 6, 2008

R. I. P. Bro... I shall wear your art on my sleaves with pride!!!thanks for the memories

Amy Stearns

February 6, 2008

My dear friend John,
I will never forget your kindness, your smile, sushi at Kabutos, and the Ringling Barnum and Bailey Circus! Thank you for your lasting art on my body it will never be forgotten! Rest in peace my friend. Love, Amy

Coetta Miller

February 5, 2008

My prayers are with you all.

Bob Sanders

February 5, 2008

I carry many pieces of your work on my skin my friend but the place I will always carry you is in my soul, the place you touched the deepest. I love you brother,

Denise Mannon

February 5, 2008

Thanks John for telling me you loved me when I believed no one did. You will be greatly missed, Denise

February 5, 2008

With deepest sympathy.He will be missed.
Shawn & Valerie Helton
Phoenix Tattoo

Brook Jones

February 5, 2008

You will be missed. God bless your family.

Phillip Williamson

February 5, 2008

Great rides, great dinners, great talks, great travels, great parties, great coffee, great cigars, great advice and most of all a great friend.

Bigger than life, rougher than some, kinder than most but in the end just a regular guy who did his best. I hope this next ride is a good one! Rest easy my friend.

Carolyn

February 5, 2008

Lil John made an impact on my life in so many ways. From giving me clarity of the Serenity Prayer, getting to ride with an amazing motorcycle crew, my first and only tattoo, to just being there for my precious friend Bob. Lil John packed a whole lot in his short life but rode the journey called life with an amazing impact that stretched to the very ends of the Earth. You will be truly MISSED!

Big Mike Yow

February 5, 2008

i loved you....and you loved me....what else is there?....every time i look in the mirror i remember you.....RIP my friend....i'll see you in the wind....

ANTHONY ROYSTER

February 5, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Carol Skirchak

February 5, 2008

My prayers go out to Little John's family. He was so full of life and his art made the world a more beautiful place. He will be greatly missed. I at least have his art on my body so I will carry him always in my heart and body. I will see him again and I am sure he will have that big smile and lay me back in the chair for more ink. Love ya brother....

Nichole

February 5, 2008

Sometimes- there just aren't enough words. I am numb, as I am sure the rest of your friends and family are. RIP.

Michele Hutchins

February 4, 2008

Thanks for sharing the sunlight of the spirit with so many people. You were greatly loved and will be greatly missed.

paige murphy

February 4, 2008

lit john you will be missed. you were a great person and a great artest. god bless you and your family. paige (greensboro N.C.)

Bug Eye

February 4, 2008

Little John, You will be missed.
RIP

chris kennedy

February 4, 2008

John you will be greatly missed by all of your adopted tattoo children. You have helped so many of us to actually do something with our lives. You have started countless careers and you are one of the most giving persons I have ever met. I will do my best to not disappoint you as you watch over us. I will never forget you. I'll see you on the big pirate ship in the sky, buddy.

burley hayes

February 4, 2008

last of a dying breed! You will allways be remembered

Stacey Davis

February 4, 2008

My heart goes out to you with the loss of "Little John"! He will be missed and memories of him will be a legend. Not only can I speak for me but for many others "Little John" helped so many when we were reaching out for help! I am so grateful that he was put in my journey of life. My sympathy to all of us who loved him.

Sharee McCall

February 4, 2008

Although I only met you once..I have seen the great influence that you have had on this city, you will be truly missed.

Jim Bury, Jr

February 4, 2008

I love and miss you brother. Always will.

Ken Edge

February 4, 2008

I'll truly miss one of the greats of my fellowship! Ken Edge

Steve Tracy

February 4, 2008

If you hang out in a Tattoo shop long enough you will get Tattooed. For all the people that had no place else to go and John helped change your life remember him well.I know Jamie and I will.Thanks John

Cathy Edwards

February 4, 2008

Tom, Cathy, Alyssa, Sara and Tony Edwards

Leanne Mayo

February 3, 2008

Thank you for your gifts beyond art,
And thank you for doing more than your part.

DEBBIE -ROLAND

February 3, 2008

OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL AT A TIME OF LOSS JOHN WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON AND DONE SOME ALSOME WORK HE WILL BE MISSED.

Wayne Cole Bones

February 3, 2008

Sympathy & prayers to Johns family & friends. You will be missed brother...

Ron Fitch

February 3, 2008

Well
LJ, I guess Stephanie is telling you the rules and Phy is there to see
you follow them. Pat little Jean on the head for me and hold a chair in
the circle for me...Fitch

Jan Maxey

February 3, 2008

We were very sorry to here about "Little John". The first time I ever talked to him was at the tattoo convention in Greensboro in 2001. He was one of the nicest people I belive i've ever met. Our Prayers and thoughts go out to you and your extended family.
Jan & Robert Maxey
Lynchburg, VA

Todd Bury JR

February 3, 2008

I have waited many years to get a tatoo from you, and it is a tragedy that i will not be able to get one from one of the best artists. May you live through your art work and ride in peace in the afterlife. Fairwell LJ

Hal

February 3, 2008

I will miss you Bro.

Angel

February 3, 2008

John, paint the skies of heaven with your art! I only met you a few times in Richmond through Hal, and I enjoyed talking with you and watching you do your thing. Our thoughts are with "YOU", his family and friends. God bless.

Reid Martin

February 3, 2008

My life will be forever changed for having known Little John. I am fortunate and grateful to have had him to guide me through an impossible part of my life. He taught me that it is OK to just be who I am, and, for me to let you be who you are.

Jeff & Debra Bury

February 3, 2008

For years Johnny wanted to give us a tattoo, a tank for me and a rose for Deb. We agreed three years ago at the Detroit Tattoo Convention. We will carry his art for life. We'll miss you, cousin. Jeff & Deb Bury

Linda Webster

February 3, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ron Fitch

February 3, 2008

Well LJ Hold a chair in the circle for me.Well Steph. will show you the rules and Phy. will see you follow them.Pat little Jean on the head for me...I know it has been a hard road home. May God Bless....Fitch

Tonya S.

February 3, 2008

You may not ever know all the lives you touched and all the wisdom you shared but you live on in our hearts. RIP my friend. I believe in you:)I promise no to be heavy handed with the coffee

James Fant

February 3, 2008

You will be very missed. GSO won't be the same without you.

Linda Hopkins

February 3, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

February 2, 2008

Little John was a great man! He will be missed!

christina winsett

February 2, 2008

i known little john for a really long time. he is really good friends of my family. my dad used to ride motorcycles with him sometimes. i remember sometimes on july 4th, him comming to the big 4th of july party at our friends house. that made everyone happy. i know also my dad does his artwork for his posters for the tatoo conventions. but i know i will always remember him and hell always have a special place in my heart <3

Alicia Perrin-Bury

February 2, 2008

Johnny will be missed everyday. He brought so much joy to so many lives. He is loved greatly and will never be forgotten.

Ashley

February 2, 2008

John was the best tattoo artist i have ever went to. He will be missed.

Mule Hembree

February 2, 2008

John gave me my first tattoo an after the first one we became very good friends during that time because of john i have made a lot of new friends that i call my brothers.A peace of my heart is missing now. I'll miss you my brother an will remember the good times we had together.

Kristie Tripp

February 2, 2008

My heart goes out to the family during this tragic loss. I have heard many great things about "Little John" and I was designing a memorial tattoo for my daughter that I lost in a car accident 3 weeks ago. I was going to have "Little John" tattoo me because everyone told me he was the one I needed to see. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. God bless you.

mike white

February 2, 2008

john helped me and went out of his way for me at a time when he didn't really even know me, over the years we became friends.
may he rest in peace
vaya con dieos

Stephani Snyder

February 2, 2008

Rest in Peace Johnny. You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten! It was a honor to know you.

faye fields

February 2, 2008

alot of our friends and family members were inked at little johns we offer our deepest sympathy to his family and his crew

the ladies of BELLADONNA SALON AND SPA

Reid Martin

February 2, 2008

Little John did his part to make a difference and save lives. He taught us that we could be ourselves and still do the right thing. My life will be forever changed for knowing him. He lives with us all through memory & example.

don juan salleroli

February 2, 2008

my condolences to friends and family,,,john may you enjoy that pirate ship in the sky bro!!i really enjoyed working with you in germany where we met,,,you were definately a character that will not soon be forgotten,,and im glad that i got to meet you and hang out!god bless and keep you forever !

Andrew Wale

February 2, 2008

It's tragic when someone that we all know and admire is taken so soon but as long as we think of all the good times that we had and the things that we remember of "Little John", then he is never really gone.

Chris Hosmer

February 2, 2008

You'll be missed

James Fant

February 2, 2008

Definitively stunned and saddened by this loss. My prayers and thoughts are with not only his family but the shop. When I was first introduced to John he many wise things to say to me in times of need and I will never forget them. Sincerely James F Fant

Leslie Wilhelm

February 2, 2008

Just wanted to let you guys know that I'm saddened by this news and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Take care of each other during this trying time.

tony faverio

February 2, 2008

R.I.P. LIL JOHN Our deepest thoughts and prayers TATTOO 168 MOYOCK NC

paige murphy

February 2, 2008

you were loved my maney people. a great man. you will be missed. love from all of us paige murphy (greensboro N.C.)

Ray Cooke

February 2, 2008

I will miss you, your talent and your colorful personality.

Simone Lipscomb Cooke

February 2, 2008

John, you had a huge heart. Even though you acted tough (and could be tough) your shiney self shined through, even in difficult times. Thanks for your artwork and friendship.

John and Sharon Bury

February 2, 2008

Little John you will always be in our thoughts and prayers. Who would of thought that the young boy from Jackson, MI would have made such an impact on so many peoples lives. May God bless you!

Todd and Tracy Bury

February 2, 2008

Little John you will always be loved and missed. You have a special place in our hearts. Thanks for the memories and always being there. Our deepest sympathy to the family.

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