John Wayne Stracener was born near Brashear, in Hopkins County, Texas on February 26, 1940.

His parents, John William Stracener and Avis Stracener, moved with his brother, Leeman Ray, to Dallas when he was a young boy.  During his school years he formed many lifetime friendships which included Joe Cook, Joe Jordan, Pat Earnhart and Ray Rhodes as well as others who preceded him in death.  While attending Adamson High School in Oak Cliff he began working at various jobs.  John was always punctual, hardworking, diligent, and honest.  In the 1970s he worked for The Dallas Times Herald.  In the 1980s he began his own sand and gravel business. When the construction economy slumped, he sold his truck and began hauling automobiles.  Lastly, he worked as a delivery driver for sheet metal manufacturing and retired from Manda Machine Company in 2013.  He made friends everywhere he delivered with his outgoing humor, remaining in contact with so many he met along the way.  He enjoyed his retirement staying active with yard work, woodworking, and continued interest in guitars. He was a faithful friend, always there for others and his family.  He learned to text to stay in touch with those who filled his life.

John deeply loved his family.  He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Loretta, 4 children, Joyce, Johnny, Tony and Nicholas, 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was happiest when he could bring smiles and laughter to others.  During his recent chemotherapy he kept the nurses laughing jokingly threatening he would go to Walmart for his treatments, if necessary.  He fought a very hard battle this past year and appreciated every prayer prayed for him.  His heart was open, and he ask Jesus to save him on May 4, 2022. On May 8 he suffered two seizures that began his rapid decline in health.  He left this world Sunday, July 3, 2022, to spend eternity with Jesus. Of this I am certain. To his children, remember the words of instruction and wisdom he gave you for this life. This man John was not famous for any great feat, yet he will always remain in the hearts of those who so love him as wonderful, generous, funny, endearing, and unforgettable.

Services will be at Jeter & Son Funeral Home, 4830 W. Illinois Ave, Dallas, Texas.  Visitation will begin at 12:30PM Thursday, July 14, 2022 with the funeral at 1:30PM.  Burial will follow at Antioch Life Park Cemetery, Grand Prairie, Texas.