John Jefferson Wyatt
Obituary
John Jefferson Wyatt lost his long-term battle with cancer, peacefully passing away in his home on October 16, 2022, surrounded by loved ones. Adopted at birth by Lloyd Jefferson and Janet Russell Wyatt, Jeff spent his childhood in the family home in Wichita Falls, TX. College and military service, culminated in a 30-year career, as a boat Captain. He was awarded 3 Purple Hearts in the Army fighting during the Tet Offensive in the Vietnam War.
He leaves behind many friends and family, including: sister, Janis Wyatt Norie; sons Ty Kalani Wyatt from marriage to Shelly Pittman Berardini and Dylan Jefferson Wyatt from marriage to Heidi Voorhees Lamkin; daughter-in-law, Aprilynn Wyatt; grandchildren, Benjamin, Katie and Rhys Wyatt; 3 devoted cats, Isabelle, Rigatoni and Miniature; and current wife JoAnn R. Banner Wyatt. Jeff and JoAnn met in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico then moved to Oregon where they married on JoAnn's birthday in 2007, a double celebration day that Jeff cherished. They also lived in New Hampshire until 2012 when they relocated to be closer to Jeff's family in Hollister, where he collected a vibrant circle of friends.
Jeff loved art and enjoyed adding to an eclectic and whimsical collection. In his retirement, he designed and crafted custom pens, and enjoyed woodworking, much of which was gifted to friends. He also volunteered his mentorship to local Scouts. His ashes were scattered in the ocean in a private ceremony as he wished. Those who knew him, even briefly, will miss a generous, loving, thoughtful, good-natured man, whose personality was matched only by the smiles that radiated in his twinkling blue eyes.
Published in Hollister Free Lance · November 8, 2022