John Frederick Eads

John Frederick Eads, 102, Kokomo, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2025.  He was born January 8, 1923, in Kokomo, the son of the late Raymond W. & Jessie M. (Mohn) Eads.  On February 2, 1952, he married Thelma P. Crane who preceded him in death on August 28, 2021.

John enlisted in the Army Air Corp on December 5, 1942, at the age of 19.  He was honorably discharged on March 26, 1945, earning the rank of TSgt.  He was an Army specialty Airplane Mechanic Gunner and during battles, engagements, skirmishes and expeditions, flew in 50 heavy bombardment missions over enemy occupied territory from 1943-1944.

John worked for Martin Wrecker Service in their office and was well known.  He had attended Beulah Land Church.  John was very involved at Bunker Hill Dragstrip whether it was spectating or racing.   If it had wheels, John was hands on.  He was a member of Greentown Road Kings Car Club, Kokomo VFW and the Cushman Club and enjoyed visiting with everyone.  In his younger years, he and Thelma would travel wherever the road took them, looking forward to any destination. 

John is survived by his children, Jon (Starla) Eads, Jeffrey Eads and Thelma (James) Jarrett; sister, Ramona Tucker; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Thelma; siblings, Betsy Ryan, Frances Knight, Dorothy Hollingsead, Phyllis Clevenger and Patricia Wilson; and half-brother, Leon Peters. 

In keeping with John’s wishes, no services will be held.  Shirley & Stout Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with cremation. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.