John David Garland, Jr.
Haughton, LA – John David Garland, Jr., 82, of Haughton, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2016, surrounded by his family and enveloped in God’s love and grace. Born August 24, 1933, in Shreveport, Louisiana, John was the son of the late John D. Garland, Sr. and Georgia Lee Morris Garland. He is also predeceased by a sister, Ann Garland Welch, and his wife of 55 years and the greatest love of his life, Mary Jo Smith Garland. He is survived by his daughters who adored him: Lee Ann and husband Bill Stroud, and Amy and husband Gerald “Slick” Hardy; grandchildren, David Keith and Kallie Bryant; great-grandson, Hudson Keith.
John was a graduate of Haughton High School and received his business degree from Northwestern State University in 1955. He had a long, successful career in banking beginning with First National Bank of Shreveport. He was a lifelong resident of Haughton, Louisiana, and served the town for many years as a town council member and volunteer fireman. He was an active member of Haughton United Methodist Church, a 50-year member of Haughton Masonic Lodge #95, and a 32nd degree Scottish Rite member for over 50 years. John enjoyed golfing, reading, volunteering with the St Jude Dream Home, and building ramps with the UMC Wheelchair Ramp Ministry.
John will be remembered for his strong character, quick wit, and easy smile. His family and friends will miss his warmth, wisdom and humor.
To celebrate his life, visitation will be held Sunday, April 24, 2016 at Haughton United Methodist Church from 2 pm – 3 pm. A memorial service will immediately follow at 3 pm, officiated by Reverend Ken Norton and dear friend, Reverend Tom Dungan. Honorary pallbearers are Bill Stroud, Slick Hardy, David Keith, Bobby Dykes and Thomas Welch.
Memorials may be made to Haughton United Methodist Church, 215 E. McKinley Avenue, Haughton, LA 71037 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Bossier Chapel
318-746-2543