John Lindsey

The John Lindsey Legacy
John Dale Lindsey was born March 7, 1924 in Magnolia, Arkansas. He graduated to glory, joining his parents, Eva Lindsey and Phillip Lindsey, Sr. He was preceded in death by his eight brothers, Sam, Phillip, Jr., Cross, James (Story), Ruben, Elmore, Robert, Evertt and 6 sisters, Olema Mae, Nellie Lindsey-Cooper, Annie Lindsey-Cooper, Roberta Lindsey-Gentry, Florence Lindsey- Hutchinson and Beatrice Lindsey-Johnson.

John graduated from Magnolia High School, where he was active on the basketball team. In addition to basketball, John enjoyed playing pool. He accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Noxubbe CME Church. John lived a rich life surrounded by family and friends. The Lindsey family was well known and loved in their small Magnolia community. They were also the only family in the town who owned a “horse-buggy”. Just as his father, who lived to see the ripe age of 100, John became a pillar of his community.

John became active as a Mason as a young adult and believed in the power of higher learning. He instilled these values in his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In fact, John encouraged any young person that he encountered to take their education and work ethics seriously. His kind and genuine nature was magnetic and his fortitude was contagious.

Anyone who knew John would agree that he was not easily discouraged by bigotry, which was demonstrated when he overcame the educational barriers of his era and pursued a college degree. Because African Americans were unwelcomed at the college in his hometown of Magnolia, he enrolled at Southern University of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, which was located approximately 100 miles from his home. John’s resilience was evident in his 2 hour bus commute to Southern University for two years before relocating to Detroit, Michigan.

Shortly after he moved to Detroit, John was drafted into the United Stated Army, where he earned the rank of Corporal and was awarded The Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, The United Nations Service Medal and a Motor Vehicle Drivers Badge. After serving 2 tours of duty, John returned to Detroit and married Clara Jean Jordan. Two children, Linda Eve and Regina Lenore were born from this union. In line with his Christian values, John united with Oak Grove Methodist Church.

After the dissolution of that marriage, John met and married Lenora Massey who became his life partner, confidant and tireless caretaker. Their love and commitment was unconditional and an inspiration to all of their family and friends.

John retired from Commonwealth Industries in circa, 1995 and slowly began his decline at the hands of Alzheimer’s disease. After battling this disease for over a decade, John was called to take his place amongst the angels. Left to carry his legacy are his wife Lenora, daughters Linda Lindsey and Regina Lindsey-Brown, granddaughters Socola, Channel and Stephanie, great-grandchildren Empress and Shay. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews who all loved him dearly.

John was a humanitarian who loved people and adored children. More importantly, they loved him. His exuberant spirit was illuminated in every aspect of his life. His kind and gentle spirit touched the lives of many.