Obituary of John Lee Campbell

John Lee Campbell left this world August 23, 2021, surrounded by family to be with his beloved wife, Cora, who he dearly missed. John was born on March 27, 1927, in Sulphur Springs, FL and always lived in Florida.  He is survived by his three loving daughters: Susan Squires (John), Pamela Campbell-Peralta (Julio), Brenda George and three grandchildren: Jonathan Squires (Jes), Sarah George, Landon Stanley as well as many other nieces and nephews. John was so very proud of this family and their many accomplishments and when you met John you immediately knew about his family.

John was a friend and neighbor to all who knew him. Folks would stop by on a daily basis to visit or seek advice on numerous topics. Even his doctors and caregivers looked forward to seeing him because of his infectious smile and caring heart  He was “one in a million” and truly lived by his motto of “Always leave them laughing and in a better place.”  He had so much compassion for others and would gladly share anything he had.  He was never too busy to help his family or others.

He had many stories and unique sayings to inspire us all, such as “Jam up and jelly tight,” “Hook on to it,” “No hill’s too high for a climber,” and “Can I borrow two dollars ‘til pay day?” All one had to hear was “Have I told you about this” and you were in for a story that was funny, educational, and/or motivational.  He taught life lessons filled with humor and love. 

John was a graduate of Jefferson High School and left during his senior year to join the Navy. Due to his construction background, he was asked to join the Seabees and was assigned to the Pacific where he served during WWII.  His final post was Guam.

Back in Tampa he met and married the girl of his dreams, Cora Lee Tison.  They had a love affair of 70 years prior to her passing in 2017. 

John was a proud 60-year member of the Ironworkers Local #397 and help build much of what Tampa is today.  He had tremendous pride in his work and in everything he did.  He loved learning, staying abreast of current events, and was a voracious reader. He got great joy from helping, teaching, and mentoring others.

In 1977, John became a 32^nd Degree Mason of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite and was a member of the Fellowship Lodge #265, Free and Accepted Masons.  

Later in life, though Susan’s genealogy searching, he learned that his ancestors came to America on the Mayflower. This thrilled him.  Then, John became a member of The General Society of Mayflower Descendants.

John had a long and memorable life and leaves a legacy of greatness. “A great father is one of life’s greatest blessings” and we are all truly blessed to have lived in his presence.

In lieu of flowers please consider honoring John by donating to the following: Salvation Army, Tampa https://salvationarmyflorida.org/tampahttps://salvationarmyflorida.org/tampa or Humane Society of Tampa Bay https://humanesocietytampa.org.