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JOHN HANCOCK Obituary
HANCOCK, 85
LAKELAND - Dr. John J. Hancock, age 85, passed away from heart failure Wednesday, July 9, 2014 in Lakeland.
Born December 17, 1928 in Montgomery, WV, he was the son of the late George M. and Catherine Hancock. He was a reporter and editor for the Charleston, WV, Daily Mail. Ordained as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene, he served churches in WV, IL, and FL for more than 50 years. He was elected president of the General Nazarene Youth International, served on the denomination's General Board and as Superintendent of the Illinois District.
Dr. Hancock was preceded in death by his wife Venita and is survived by a loving family that includes three sons, Pastor J. Jerome Hancock, Jr. (Brenda) of Richmond, VA, Pastor Michael M. Hancock (Becky) of Nashville, TN, Pastor Timothy B. Hancock (JoAnne) of Winter Haven, two daughters, Brooksie Smith (Pastor Dave) of Lakeland, and Catherine Lingle (Michael) of Avon, IN, a sister, Patricia Dye, of Jacksonville, nine grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends Monday, July 14, 6-8 PM at Lakeland Highland Park Nazarene Church. The celebration service will be held 11 AM, Tuesday, July 15, at the church.
Condolences may be made to the family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to the
"World Evangelism Fund" through any local Nazarene Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for JOHN HANCOCK
paul banning
May 5, 2025
He was always as close as phone call for me.
Joseph Daniels
September 4, 2014
I knew John Hancock because I was born and raised in Montgomery WV, and I knew his sister Patricia because she was a schoolmate of mine. May God bless you John for all you have done in leading others to Christ.
Vonda Conley-Williams
August 4, 2014
I remember Reverend Hancock and his family very well, from activities in the Charleston, WV area churches, church camp, etc. Have always had great respect for him and his family. Brooksie and I were in Senior camp together. So sorry for your loss, but know he is now singing with the angels.
Doris (White) Westfall
July 17, 2014
Was saved under his pastorate at Dunbar, WV in 1964. Brother Hancock was always one of my favorites. I'm still serving the Lord and plan on renewing our friendship and talking over old times some day in Heaven!
Steven Ballengee
July 15, 2014
Prayers and thoughts for you all. Fond memories of your dad and mom. The relationship has changed for a short while for those of us in the Faith. We will see all our loved ones when we all see Jesus. Once my brother Mark was having convulsions in Thomas Hospital and he couldn't have been more than 4 or 5 years old. I. The waiting room by myself near 2am afraid. All became fine when I heard you dad coming in singing He Touched Me at the top of his lungs. I knew everything would alright.
Diane Lingle
July 14, 2014
Praying for your family! What a legacy he leaves to all of you!
Mark Dye
July 14, 2014
A man of God who touched the lives of thousands of people, that also possessed an infinite wit and warmth. He influenced my life in many ways and taught me to find the joy in everyday occurrences. "The Man in the Gold Suit" is always in my heart. He is my Uncle John and I will miss him always.
July 13, 2014
I met John in 1963 and liked him at first sight. He knew how to make you feel good and laugh. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Rev. Forest and June Harvey
Whidden-McLean Funeral Home - Bartow
July 13, 2014
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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Whidden-McLean Funeral Home and Crematory - Bartow650 E. Main Street, Bartow, FL 33830
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