On February 13, 2008 John Lowell Lemons of Galax, Va. passed away joining many family members and friends with their Heavenly Father. He was a loyal husband, a supportive parent and grandparent, an unwavering friend, a compassionate giver, a committed public servant, an exceptional mentor and a worthy role model.

He was born in Galax, Virginia on July 18, 1925 to John Samuel & Alice Inscore Lemons and was a lifelong resident of Galax.

He entered the U.S. Navy during World War II and served in the Armed Guard and after discharged returned to graduate from Galax High School. He attended the College of William and Mary extension in Norfolk before returning to Galax and entering the retail jewelry business.

Following a very successful 26 year, management career with Jewel Box Stores Corporation he purchased the Jewel Box store in Galax and formed Lemons Jewelry Inc. which he along with his son Phil developed into a chain of 18 retail jewelry stores throughout Virginia. Johnny was active in the retail business on Main Street in Galax for 56 years. His many community endeavors included charter membership in the Y's Men Club, Deacon at First Baptist Church, and active participation in the Retail Merchants Association. For over 60 years he was a constant fixture working in concession stands at Galax High School athletic events.

Johnny served 3 terms, 12 years, as a member of the Galax City Council. For 2 of those years he was elected Vice Mayor. He initiated and supported many programmatic and facility improvements which enhanced the city including swimming pool projects, police and courts building, and recreation center.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Thomasine Calloway Lemons. On April 23, 2008 they would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. He also is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law Lowell and Linda Lemons, Phil and Maryellen Lemons all of Waynesboro, Va.. He leaves a brother William Reid Lemons of Richmond, Va.; as well as six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. His special caregivers are Rev. Bruce Noffsinger and Michelle Craig.

Visitation will be from 5:30 until 8:00 p.m. at the Galax First Baptist Church on Friday, February 15. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 16th at 11:00 am at the church with Dr. Winford Hendrix, Rev, Bruce Noffsinger and Rev. Claxton Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Felts Memorial Cemetery with Military Rites by Grayson VFW Post 7726. In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the Galax Foundation for Excellence in Education P.O. Box 487 Galax, Va. 24333 or to the
First Baptist Church John Lemons Memorial Fund 1024 East Stuart Drive Galax, Va. 24333