John was preceded in death by his son, Jon Allen, and his grandsons, Zachary Willis and Xavier Willis, whose memories remained close to his heart and whose stories were often shared with deep love.

He leaves behind his beloved children, Angela Willis (Gregory), Antonio Thomas (Angel), and Saundra Bell Christopher. He was a proud grandfather to Jasmine Richardson (Ali), Antonia Champion (Corey), Brittney Willis, and Z'Koyia Christopher, and a loving great-grandfather to seven great-grandchildren who will continue to carry forward the legacy of his strength, wisdom, and protective love.