John Henson Bird, 69, of Gainesville, FL passed away November 21, 2013 at E.T. York Haven Hospice. He was born April 17, 1944 in Charleston, WV to Roscoe Henson Bird and Gertrude Cummings Bird.
Mr. Bird had served in the National Guard and was an automotive service manager employed at Santa Fe Ford in Alachua, FL and previously employed at Harvey Shreve Ford in St. Albans, WV and as a district service manager for Saab Scania. He was a member of University City Church of Christ, a 32 degree mason, member of Scottish Rite of Free Masonry, and a Master Mason of Nitro, WV, Lodge #170. He also belonged to the Gainesville Street Rods and enjoyed driving his 1947 Ford Coupe ‘Maggie”.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Gary Bird. He is survived by his wife, Wanda Lowry Bird; son, Gregory Bird (Angela) of Ft. White, FL; daughter, Ranae Bird of Gainesville, FL; brother, Larry Bird (Vickie) of Texarkana, TX; sister-in-law, Christine Bird of Healdsburg, CA; grandchildren, Porcha Cannon and Natasha Breen (Michael); great-grandchildren, Dustin Cannon, Jr., Chesnie Breen and Bentlee Breen of Ft. White, FL as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609 on Monday, November 25, 2013 from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Funeral services will be at 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, November 26, 2013 with visitation one hour prior at Forest Meadows Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rodeheaver Boy’s Ranch or Haven Hospice of Gainesville.
so very sorry for the loss of a great man. May he Rest In Peace and we pray for strength to help get you all through this very difficult time. please let us know if you need anything. Love to ALL.
Mike and Phyllis Breen
Wanda,
I am very saddened by the news of Johns passing. The club has lost a great person and fellow member cruz-er. John will be greatly missed by all. If there is any way we can help, please feel free to call.
Gainesville Street Rods President
Mike Stelzleni
Vice president
Walter Bell
So sorry about your families loss. If I can do anything for your family, please let me know. Love you all!
Our family sends love and support. I wish we had more time with John but I find soulice in knowing John is with angels and feeling at peace. May God bless and hold you now.