John W. La Rosa, Jr.

La Rosa ~ John Wesley La Rosa, Jr. was born September 8, 1945, to John Wesley and Mandy La Rosa.  As their first child, John was welcomed as the joy of their lives. 

He had a melodious bass voice which he shared as a member of the First Baptist Church of Oakland Choir.  John also shared his voice some evenings when he sang popular tunes with the “Do-Wop” crew on the corner.  He was also skillful on the basketball court and in high school he lettered in Basketball three years. His skills as a basketball player earned him a position on the intramural team that would compete all over the country.

At a young age he showed his artistic ability doing sketches of friends and family.  Utilizing his artistic skills, Matthew Gilbert had him paint the school mascot, a Panther, across the gym wall, which is still there 51 years later.  After graduating from Matthew W. Gilbert High School, John went to Howard University. At Howard, to make extra money, he would carve tiki dolls.  After leaving Howard, John joined the U S Army.  When he finished his military tour, he returned to Jacksonville and went to work with the Duval County School Board in the Construction division ~ he was there thirty-four years.

John leaves to cherish his memory, siblings, Johanna La Rosa, Victo La Rosa, Drucilla Daniels (Silas), Julius La Rosa (Elnora), Cynthia Grant; nieces and nephews, Pamela Tutson, Victo La Rosa, Jr., Patricia Webb, Julius La Rosa, Jr., Silas Daniels, Maurice Daniels, Jason La Rosa, Steven La Rosa, Nicholas La Rosa, Kristie La Rosa, Jacob La Rosa, Adia La Rosa; extended family and friends.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of John Wesley La Rosa, Jr., 11 AM Thursday, August 17, 2023, at The Church of Oakland, 1025 Jessie Street.   Visitation Wednesday from 5 – 7 PM at The Soutel Chapel.  Inurnment at Jacksonville National Cemetery Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 11:00AM.  Because of the love of his family, arrangements entrusted to J. E. Fralin & Sons Funeral & Cremation Services, 5065 Soutel Dr, 904.924.9400. 

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