John Edward DeVane Jr.

Sunrise: July 28, 1941 – Sunset: December 25, 2023

John was born in Jacksonville, NC to the proud parents John Sr. and Emma Bell Graham. He is the first son and third child of their four children. His parents and sisters, Dorothy and DeLores, have proceeded him in death. His brother Vernon resides in Winston-Salem, NC. John was educated in Onslow County public schools. John graduated from Malverne High School New York, advanced his education at North Carolina Central University and Rutgers University.

John was a fierce protector of family, friends and of this nation. He was a proud veteran who served his country in the US Air Force and US Army National Guard. When John first came to New Jersey he worked as a Counselor for Kilmer Job Corps Center. Then he was hired as a Hospital Administrator at University of Medicine & Dentistry (UMDNJ). He was also an Affirmative Action Officer for Union County Department of Human Resources. During his tenure with the Newark Public Schools he held various positions ranging from Affirmative Action Officer, School Educator, Court Representative and finally as Assistant Director in the Attendance Department (Truancy Task Force). Before John retired from the Newark Public School System he was also employed as a Newark Special Police Officer and then as an Essex County Sheriff Officer.

As a staunch supporter of his immediate and surrounding communities; he lent his skills and talents to participating and supporting fund raising events for food and clothing drives, housing development projects, health and medical initiatives, and educational programs. He was a strong advocate of human and social issues.

If there was a call or need for help; John always answered because everyone mattered.

John never met a stranger. He always made lasting friendships. He shared his knowledge, imparted honest wisdom, or a home cooked meal often prepared by him. His love for cooking had him always preparing and serving chef inspired meals. He made certain everyone he encountered departed with a peace of mind, a full body, and a renewed spirit.

John was a spiritual man and a devoted family man. He leaves behind his soulmate and wife, Mrs. Virginia H. DeVane. John and Ginny (as she is affectionately known) have a blended family of six children. Yvette, Gail, Yolanda, Victoria, Robert & John. Two son-in-law’s, Kenneth & Joe and one daughter in-law Dionelsi. He also leaves behind a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren as his lasting legacies. Also left to cherish his memory are many nieces, nephews, family, and friends expanding three generations.

The DeVane family celebrates the life of John with the high most loving thoughts of him as a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, family member, friend and a teacher of life lessons to all.

If I can help somebody, as I travel alone. If I can help somebody with a word or song . If I can help somebody from doing wrong then my living shall not be in vain.

Per John’s request no services will be held at this time. However, “A Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date. The family thanks everyone for their prayers and heartfelt expressions of condolences during this time of bereavement.

John 16:22: “So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”

Carolina Cremation is serving the DeVane family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.