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John Dokes Obituary
He was born in Akron on Nov. 23, 1953. John was a veteran of U.S. Marine Corps. He worked for the U.S. Postal Service for 32 years as a mail handler, where he adopted his second family. He was a gentle spirit with a quiet strength and a strong work ethic, who loved his family and his hobby of throwing darts. All who knew him will remember his kind ways, sense of humor, and his devotion to his daughter, Mandie.
Preceded in death by father, John Sr.; sister, Kelly; grandmothers, Zula Banks and Cornelius Stone; grandfathers, J.D. Dokes and Benjamin Shumpert, he is survived by his wife, Nicole; son, John III; stepson, Justin; daughter, Mandie Nicole; mother, Mary; brothers, Mark, Jefferey, and Lance Dokes (Columbus, Ohio), Eric Spears (Las Vegas, Nev.); sisters, Karen and Kristin; four grandchildren, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Special thanks to devoted friend, Guy Clark, for his tireless support, care, and compassion.
Services will be held at 12 noon Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2005, at Sommerville Funeral Services, 1695 Diagonal Rd., Akron, Ohio. Viewing hours from 10 to 12 p.m. Pastor Ken Turner will officiate. Internment of cremains at Ohio Western Reserve on Monday, Dec. 5, 2005, at 11 a.m. Condolences may be sent to 1635 Tanglewood, Akron, Ohio 44313, and 236 Cranz Place, Akron, Ohio 44310.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Dokes
Karen Dokes-Smith
November 20, 2021
Still missing my big brother and the laughter we shared. You took care of all of us while you were here. I'm wondering if you're with Mama, Daddy, Mark, Kelly, Grandma Banks, Daddy Ben, Mama Red and Grandma Vi? Love you forever! Your Sis,
Devin
March 16, 2021
Balled my eyes out at ur home going service. Loudest in the room. I wasn’t ready. 16 years unk. I’ll never forget the day. Thanksgiving 05. I was getting ready to head to mommy’s when Dink called me. You n Dink are the reason I love ball so much. I loved our Sunday family hoop sessions. U called me pump n kick haha. Your 3 was deadly. A gentle giants indeed. I always loved your swag. So coo calm n collective. Always smooth. U passed b4 my daughter was born. I tell her all the time how I wished she could have met you. I live and miss you Uncle Pan. Til we meet again.
Karen Dokes
September 23, 2020
My brother forever! Thinking of you and the good times we shared. Until we meet again RIH! Kaykay
amy howard
July 19, 2006
I am glad to have gotten the pleasure of meeting such a wonderful person,who taught me everything there is to know about throwing darts. when i started throwing darts JD would laugh at me and call me oj juice, because i lost every game for 2 months straight. His humor will be sadly missed.
amanda davisson
January 22, 2006
i didnt know john dokes that well, but i just wanted to say im so sorry for your loss and that from what i heard about him i know he's in heaven right now, and that he's still with you guys.again, im extremely sorry.
Cassandra Bridges-Maxwell
December 4, 2005
Karen,
My deepest sympathy on the passing of your brother. May God grant you and your family peace during this most difficult time.
Dusty Sill
December 3, 2005
We are very sorry for the loss of a wonderful person. Our prayers are with you. Pops,Mama Sill,& J-Little
matt morris
December 2, 2005
jd, u will be miss deeply in my heart u tought me alot in darts when to point, not too, and point until the cows come home that was your number #1 rule in your dart book of jd rules. god bless u and your family.
quetta mitchell
December 2, 2005
to the family of jd, it was great know him he was a great person. i didn't know him long but what i did know he tought me how to not be nerve of playing dart when u team up with a big dog player that he was, he will be miss deeply in my heart. god bless him, his wife, family, children,ang grandchilds.
NADINE(martin) JACKSON
December 2, 2005
MAY GOD BLESS YOU IN THE TIME OF SORROW
Scooter & Toni Bland
December 2, 2005
You have our deepest sympathy. May
God Bless you in this time of sorrow.
STACY RAFFERTY
December 1, 2005
PAN,
YOU WERE THE GREATEST DAD TO MANDIE AND SHE WILL NEVER FORGET THAT. YOU WERE SUCH A GREAT PERSON WHO HAD A HEART OF GOLD, YOU HAVE TOUCHED MANY LIVES IN YOUR PATH AND I AM GLAD TO HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF KNOWING YOU. I WILL SEE YOU AGAIN. PEACE, LOVE AND HAPPINESS.
LANCE DOKES II
December 1, 2005
UNCLE PAN,
YOU WERE A GREAT PERSON. WHEN I NEEDED SOMEONE TO TALK TO I COULD ALWAYS CALL AND COUNT ON YOU TO COME THROUGH. YOU HAVE ALWAYS MEANT ALOT TO ME. I WILL MISS YOU AND ALWAYS KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS. GO CELTICS. PAUL PIERCE COULD NEVER MEASURE UP TO YOU IN MY BOOK.
Smitty & Geri Smith
December 1, 2005
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Robiny Lavender
December 1, 2005
Sorry about your loss. God Bless You!
Beth Scisciani
December 1, 2005
Kristin and Family
My prayers are with you! Call me if you need anything!
Love, Beth
Sharon Greathouse
December 1, 2005
My thoughts are with you and yours. Kristin is a great person and a wonderful friend to me. I did not know John, but I am sure he was just as wonderful. God Bless!! Kris, let me know if there is anything at all that you need. Love you lots...
mollie adams
December 1, 2005
I'm so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with your family.
Sterling & Tanya Lundy
December 1, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Beth (slatky) & Jody Gump
December 1, 2005
To the family and friends of JD....We all share a blessing that others did not experience, We had a beautiful person come into our lives and share with us his devotion and strength; whether it be family, friends, life, or his love of darts, JD was true. I read the entries in the guest book, and they all say the same thing...This young man was truly looked upon as a dedicated soul.
Debbie and your angel Jada
December 1, 2005
John the third (Dinky), I am so sorry that you lost your daddy. You have been very brave and strong for your family. I know this is a very difficult time for you. You are weathering so many storms right now. Just remember Blackberry molasses.
Jada Dokes
December 1, 2005
Grandpa, I only had a few short months with you but I loved every minute spent with you. Even in your weakess state you still had enough strength to pick me up and give me smiles and stroke my face in that loving way that you do. You have such a wonderful heart and I will miss you deeply.
Aunt Mandie and daddy: you have both been very brave and strong and I am lucky to have you in my life. God bless you both and give you srength to cope with your loss. Love JADA
Mandie (Daughter) Dokes
November 30, 2005
To my family.......I love you guys so much especially my dad!!!! I am so proud of all of us because we are all being very srong and so so helpful! I love ALL of you! Rest In Peace Daddy...I love you so much!I thank all of you for your help. Stay strong and let my dad and the lord be with you! Thanks!
Jennifer Barker
November 30, 2005
Mandie
I'm so sorry that you lost your daddy! I know how much he loved you! I watched you grow up into a beautiful young lady throughout all the years that I worked with your mom at Kmart. You and your mom are in my thoughts. Hang in there!
Love Always
Mildred Davis & Vincent Davis
November 30, 2005
We would like to send our deepest sympathy to all the family members.
GOD'S LOVE IS ETERNAL!
HENRY UNDERWOOD
November 30, 2005
TO THE FAMILY OF JOHN DOKES MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES FROM THE UNDERWOOD FAMILY
DeLondia Feaster
November 30, 2005
To the Dokes Family,
I am very sadden by the loss of John. My prayers goes out to his family. Remember there is NO pain that GOD cannot heal.
God Bless,
KEVIN CARPENTER
November 30, 2005
I feel blessed to have known JD.He was not only a top-notch dart player and competitor but just a great all around person. I am saddened by his loss, and send my deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Although is is gone he will not be forgotten!
Kathy Brown
November 30, 2005
My deepest sympathy to the family. John was a co-worker of mine for years and a best friend to my brother Dave. He was kind and joy to work with. May God give you all comfort knowing John is now with Him.
Sherilyn Oliver
November 30, 2005
Karen my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I will keep you in my prayers.
Scott Norris
November 30, 2005
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
JEFFREY CALDWELL
November 30, 2005
TO THE FAMILY OF JOHN THE CALDWELL FAMILY SENDS THERE CONDOLENCES.
Loretta (Red) Spencer
November 30, 2005
JD better known to me as "Teach"
He taught me the strategy to shooting darts. A great person with a great personality. He will be missed. Love to his family, my prayers are with you.
John Lewis
November 30, 2005
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Ric Fuhrman
November 30, 2005
John Dokes
I am greatful to have known such a kind and thoughtful man. He was a great friend and will be surely missed. John, I always wanted to tell you thanks for being there for Deb throughout the years. In closing, let me say that Mandie is truely blessed to have such parents, as you two. Until we meet again.....
KEVIN CARPENTER
November 30, 2005
I truly feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know JD and my sympathy and prayers go out to all of his family and friends. Our loss is heaven's gain.
ANGIE JOHNSTON
November 29, 2005
J.D YOU WILL BE MISSED SO MUCH!!! YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS!!!ANGIE-BRENT
John & Shelli Spies
November 29, 2005
To the family of JD. We all liked JD alot he was a good person and a good competitor. He always had a smile on his face for everyone. He will be missed. You will all be in our prayers.
JIM & ANGIE BLACKERT
November 29, 2005
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.
Dean Tucker
November 29, 2005
I met J.D. last year when I had the honor of being on his team last fall & spring along with Moe and Todd. I'm so glad to have known him. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family.
marty-dawn morris
November 29, 2005
JD you will be missed
Anna Kenna
November 29, 2005
My heart goes out to JD's family in this time of grief. JD was a true friend of mine and I am saddend by the loss, I will miss him.
Rodney&Mary Halsey
November 29, 2005
Our thought and prayers go out to the family of JD. He was great friend, person,and darter. He will be greatly missed.
Katrina Shunk Tim Eaton
November 29, 2005
Over the last few years we had gotten to know JD very well, he was a staple at our Saturday night dart tournaments. He was there so many Saturdays that if he missed one he would call to let us know he couldn't make it. JD was a wonderful man and an all-star dart player.
John, Zaria, Andre, Jada Dokes
November 29, 2005
We will miss you. We will always love Big Poppa.
BECKY BROWN
November 29, 2005
JD WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM.
BECKY AND MARK BROWN
WAYMON BROWN SR. & FAMILY
November 29, 2005
TO KAREN AND THE REST OF THE DOKES FAMILY ALWAYS KNOW THAT EARTH HAS NO SORROWS THAT HEAVEN CANNOT HEAL. GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU ALL
Isam & Ruby Alziq (OSI Tobacco)
November 29, 2005
Our deepest heart felt sympathy to the family of John. John was a wonderful person, kind and always happy. We will surely miss the times he would come to our shop and smoke his cigars and talk about his dart games. He will be sadly missed, but we will see him in heaven when the time comes. Until then rest in peace my dear friend
Eric Graves
November 29, 2005
To the Dokes Family, Your son will be greatly missed for his leadership, and strong work ethics. May God be with you in these troubling times.
Regina Harper Farr
November 29, 2005
To The Dokes Family:
With our deepest sympathy. Our Thoughts and prayers are with you. God will see you all through.
The Harper Family
Karen, Lynette is down in VA with me and will talk to you when she gets back home. Keep your head up!
Annette Williams
November 29, 2005
Karen and the rest of the Dokes Family, very sorry to hear of your loss and you are all in my prayers. Annette Williams (Allstate)
Kay and Mark Haack
November 29, 2005
Our sympathy is with you and your family. JD we will miss seeing you at dart tournements. you were and still are a great guy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Suzanne Meffert
November 29, 2005
Karen and Dokes Family, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I will keep you in my prayers. Suzanne Meffert (Allstate C-Store)
John & Sara Peters
November 29, 2005
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead.
Vikki Brock-Thomas
November 29, 2005
Peace be still. God bless the entire family. In Him,
Vikki Brock-Thomas
Mark Dingle
November 29, 2005
To the Family,
John was a wonderful man who I have not seen in a few years, but the times we shared on the basketball court will be treasured forever. He was one of the best long range shooters I have seen. He was one of the Four Horseman at the Urban League and the biggest Boston Celtic Fan. He was also one of the funniest guys in world. he kept me laughing with his witty remarks & conversation. I truly miss him already and I am saddened by the fact that I did not get to say Goodbye to a great friend. May God Bless the family!
Laura Carpenter
November 29, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. JD was an awesome friend and well respected man. We will miss you. "Big John" & Laurie Carpenter
Diane Brown
November 29, 2005
John,
You were a loving,caring and a strong person.I know you were always there for Mandie and Deb...
We will miss you, but you will be in our thoughts and hearts always....All we have to do is look at Mandie to see you.Thank you so much...Mandie's Grandma
Kym Wertenberger
November 29, 2005
There will never be another JD. You are a great spirit that always made me smile. We will all miss you in the dart world, but I am sure you will be looking over us. My prayers are with your family and friends and your memory will live in our hearts forever. PS: I'm sure you will not need that napkin over your B&B in heaven!! We'll never forget you. God Bless!!
Mr. & Mrs.Matt Rose
November 29, 2005
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
April Pine
November 29, 2005
You will be missed. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Onyema Lindsey
November 29, 2005
Nicole,
Sorry to hear about the loss of your husband. You will be in my thoughts and prayers forever. As you already know, I am here if you need me. God Bless
Julie Grosse
November 29, 2005
Karen, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. May your faith keep you strong.
Anne Hill & Otis McCollum
November 29, 2005
Niki and the Dokes Family, I know that your hearts are filled with pain, but hold onto God's unchanging hand for He alone will take care of you during this time of sorrow.
Tracy Ellerbe
November 29, 2005
You are in our Prayers and thoughts.Mrs.& Mr.Tracy Ellerbe
Gino Hunter
November 29, 2005
We love you auntie Nicci.From Gino,Chris,Tracci and Gevonte'.
Roxanne Ellerbe
November 29, 2005
To my best friend Nicole K.Dokes,I love you and I'm always going to be there for you.We are all going to miss JD so much.Hold on to God's unchanging hand.From the Hunter and Ellerbe family.
Marie Moton
November 29, 2005
Karen , my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
DiVette Fuhrman
November 29, 2005
John was a wonderful father and friend and will be missed. My prayers our with His children who he loved dearly. (Mandie and Dinky)
JOHN AUTRY
November 29, 2005
JD I,LL ALWAYS REMEMBER OUR TIMES AT THORNTON JR HIGH " FORWARD EVER BACKWARDS NEVER " I STILL CAN.T BELIVE YOUR GONE, REST IN PEACE JDI,LL MISS OUR BOSTON CELTICS TALKS REST IN PEACE BROTHER NIKKI TAKE CARE SISTER EVERYTHING WILL ALRIGHT WITH GOD,S HELP
Jacqueline Dawson
November 29, 2005
To John Dokes Family, My deepest sympathy at the lost of a true friend. May God surround you all with peace, love and comfort. God Bless.
ladonna johnson
November 29, 2005
May God bless the Dokes family in this time of sorrow.
ARICKA HALEY
November 29, 2005
TO THE DOKES FAMILY; MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO YOU. I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF KNOWING JOHN AND MANDIE AND HER MOTHER FOR ABOUT 10 YEARS AND AS A PROMISE TO JOHN AND DEBBIE. I WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR MANDIE AS SHE BECOMES A YOUNG LADY TO A WOMAN I WILL ALWAYS BE IN HER LIFE,AND HELP HER GET TROUGH THE LOSS OF THE MAN OF HER LIFE HER DADDY. AND FOR THE MOTHER,SISTERS.AND BROTHERS,NOW HE IS IN A PLACE WHERE THERE IS NO PAIN NO SORROW AND NOTHING BUT HAPPINESS. AND WE WILL SEE JOHN AGAIN AS HE WELCOME US INTO HEAVEN WITH THAT BIG SMILE ON HIS FACE. JOHN WE ALL LOVE YOU AND YOU WILL BE SADLY MISSED BY ALL.
Michael & Camilla
November 28, 2005
The family is in our Prayers. He will live in our hearts forever.
Colesia May
November 28, 2005
Nicole , I'm sorry about the loss of your husband. Please always remember I will always be there for you and if you need anything please let me know. Your friend forever.
Gwen Grayson
November 28, 2005
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well-lived.
Donavon and MJ Powell
November 28, 2005
JD was a great friend and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the family in your time of sorrow. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Bob and Madelyn Gould
November 28, 2005
We are so sorry to hear of John's passing. John worked together with us for many years at the Akron Main Post Office. We shared many conversations, many good times. It was a place made better by John's presence there. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all, and we will remember John fondly always.
Bob Shell
November 28, 2005
Please accept our heartfelt condolences . John was a good friend and will be missed.
Jim and Megan Foster
November 28, 2005
We are really going to miss you JD. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Sharon Jiminez & Robbin Arnold
November 28, 2005
We were very saddened to hear about your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 KJV
rick priano
November 28, 2005
goodbye to a respected friend. may there be bulllseyes in heaven!!
Carla Douglas-Polk
November 28, 2005
To the Dokes families
My heart was broken when I heard about the passing of my friend, John. I think of all the fun times he, Rodney and I had during our school years. Not to mention the good times on Palmyra. Words cannot express the sorrow I feel right now. I can tell you from experience, God will carry you when you feel you can't go on. Look to God, he'll be your strength. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Ron Rinesmith
November 28, 2005
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Gena Miller-Brown
November 28, 2005
Nicole I was so sorry to hear of yours husbands passing. you, Justin and the rest of your family are in my prayers
Doris Witherspoon
November 28, 2005
The Witherspoon Family would like to express our sincere condolences to the Dokes Family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Julie Kinzel
November 28, 2005
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Myra King
November 28, 2005
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Tammy Livergood
November 28, 2005
May God Bless you all during this time and may He give you comfort and strength. John was a co-worker of mine many years ago and he will be missed by many.
John Angle
November 28, 2005
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Karen.
Diana Phister
November 28, 2005
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
PHYLLIS HILLYARD
November 28, 2005
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lurene Ellington
November 28, 2005
Karen, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during your time of grief.
Hugh Wilson
November 28, 2005
I was saddened to hear of the loss of your beloved family member. My thoughts are with you in your sorrow.
KATHY AND BUCK
November 28, 2005
J.D., "YOUNG MAN", YOU WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED BY US. YOUR COMPETIVENESS AND DRIVE TO BE THE BEST WAS ONLY OUTDONE BY YOUR ABILITY TO BE A GENUINE AND CARING PERSON. ON BEHALF OF THE BELL MUSIC FAMILY, WE WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUR CONDOLENCES TO YOUR FAMILY AND LET YOU KNOW WE WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH!! GOD BLESS AND REST IN PEACE J.D!
KELLI POPIEL
November 28, 2005
DOKES FAMILY, TO MY COUSIN MANDIE, MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU AT THIS MOST DIFFICULT TIME. I MET JOHN A FEW TIMES AT MANDIES SOFTBALL GAMES. HE WAS SO NICE TO TALK TO. YOU ARE ALL IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.
MINDY LYNN JOHN BRADACH
November 28, 2005
He will be greatly missed and remembered forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Melanie Wonner
November 28, 2005
My condolences. JD will be missed by many! He was a great guy with an excellant outlook on life! I will miss his optimism and his smile!
Gwen (Gooby)&Jimmy Wynn
November 28, 2005
To Mary, Karen, &Family,Thinking of Your Family with Heartfelt Sympathy...I'm so sorry to learn of your loss.May the Sympathy and Love of others Comfort your family in your Sorrow. Pamm Was loved and will be miss .Sues Court/THORNTON PARK
Leslie Farr
November 28, 2005
To John's family my deepest sympathy. John was a good man. I will never forget our conversations on his Boston Celtics.He will truly be missed. Rest in peace John.
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