Biography:

John D. Stukes was born on June 15, 1934 to David Stukes and Pirlether Billie-Stukes in Pinewood South Carolina. At age 9, John and his mother relocated to New York City. John grew up surrounded by love and instilled with values that shaped how he lived his life. He started his education in Pinewood, South Carolina and also attended schools within the New York City public school system. As a young man John answered the call to serve his country and served in the Army. He was honorably discharged in 1958.

John possessed  a strong work ethic throughout his life. He worked several jobs before deciding that he wanted to be his own boss. He was an entrepreneur and owned several businesses over the years,  including a club and stores in Harlem. John was well known in Harlem for his work with the pen and paper (if you know, you know). He met many people while working in the Harlem community with whom he became long time friends.

At the center of John’s world was his beloved wife, Sylvia Stukes. John and Sylvia met in 1973 and spent the next 50 years navigating life together. The two married in 1996, Sylvia was not only his wife but also his confidante and unwavering support, standing by his side until his last breath.

In his later years, John drew closer to home. He enjoyed traveling with his wife, working in his garden, taking care of the family pets, watching basketball and General Hospital. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and making his check in calls. John checked in on the people he cared about , if he couldn't get you on his own he would call someone else to check on you. He loved his family and his friends.

 John battled many challenges throughout his life. He was resilient and made it through many of the challenges that he faced. He remained compassionate and loving through it all. On December 12, 2023 God called John home. He would now be reunited with his parents David and Pirlether Stukes, and his four sons who preceded him in death, David  and Nathan Stukes, Keith McPherson ( Big Keith) and Kevin Miner.

John’s greatest legacy is his family. He lived to lead five generations. To mourn his passing, John leaves behind his beloved wife Sylvia Stukes. He leaves to mourn and carry on his legacy his four daughters Juanna Mangham (Jeff), Monique Miner-Thorton (William) Tara Stukes (Mark) and his baby girl Whitney Tarleton-Stukes. John also leaves behind  eleven grandchildren whom he loved dearly Marcus, Nathan ( Lil Nathan), Keith (Lil Keith), Jennifer, Lauren, Jordan, Chassidi, Taj, Kymane, Talasia, Nalani and three bonus grandchildren Elaina, Elease and Jamerson. John was a great -grandfather and a great -great grandfather leaving behind 13 great- grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He was truly proud of the family he created, each of them a testament to the love and wisdom he imparted.

John's spirit will forever resonate through the lives of his children and of those he touched. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family will be cherished in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mark this day as a celebration of John  Stukes' life. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love of those who went before him and the generations he leaves behind and may we each remember, words stated and moments shared with this great, great man.