There are people that leave an unforgettable mark on this world even after they’re gone.  Mr. John W. Sealey, Jr. was one of these people.  John W. Sealey, Jr. was born on October 14, 1937 to Frances Vivian (nee O’Hara) Sealey and John W. Sealey, Sr., in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.  John was one of six children and was affectionately known as “Brother” by his family. John was a man of greatness that loved his family and the Lord.

John stood on the principles of hard work, integrity and determination.  He was a successful businessman in the wine industry at various companies in the Cleveland area for more than five decades.  John consistently earned highest Seller Awards and was the only sales representative to ever achieve two-million-dollars in sales revenue in one year at the Heidelberg Wine Company.

John was also lovingly called “Papa John” or “PJ” by his children, grandchildren and   those that grew to love him.  Papa John was the father of six children – Daphne, Anthony, Garry, Tonya, Stacey and Kevin.  John married “His Baby” Kathy on June 24, 1983. They were married for 35 years until his passing on August 5, 2018.

John was a big sports fan and avidly watched football, basketball and baseball.  He was the ultimate competitor in every game that he played and relished winning!

John also enjoyed fishing, playing cards, watching western movies, and listening to gospel music. To meet John was to know him – and to know him was to love him.   He never met a stranger – his outgoing personality, brilliant smile and amazing spirit instantly made you feel welcomed and at home.

John loved the Lord with his “whole heart, soul and mind”.  He was very faithful member to his church – Providence Baptist Church where he humbly served on the Greeters Ministry.  John led a life that was a testament to an authentic relationship with Christ. John was an encourager.  He openly shared his testimony about the goodness of God and inspired others to believe in the risen Savior.  One of his favorite phrases was “God is good…all the time. All the time – God is good!” He also joyously sang God’s praises as a member of the Voice of Praise singing group in the late 80’s.

John leaves behind to cherish his memory – devoted wife, Kathy; children Daphne (Larry) Ropka, Anthony (Tonya) Sealey, Garry Sealey, Tonya Goggins, Stacey Walcott and Kevin (Kimalon) Dixon; siblings Pat (Jerry) Washington, Jean Griffin, Darlene O’Hara and Shirl O’Hara; His favorite Aunt Precious Walton; His Favorite Cousin Anne Goins; Dear Friend “Sis” Cynthia Bivins; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; John W. Sealey, Sr., and, Frances Vivian (nee O’Hara) Sealey; and sister, Ruth Stephens.  We thank and praise God for the wonderful life of John W. Sealey, Jr.