John was born in Lockhart, Texas. He graduated with a B.A. from Southwest Texas State in San Marcus. He served 2 years in the Navy during WWII. He was a graduate of Word of Faith Bible College in Dallas, and was ordained by Tell My People Ministry. He served as a Senior Lay Pastor at Hillcrest Church, Dallas, TX.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years LaVida Tabor of Dallas, two daughters, Elaine Swaim of Charlotte, NC and Julia McGuire of Dallas. Two grandchildren, Byron Swaim of Los Angeles, CA and
Nicole Swaim of Charlotte, NC. Spiritually adopted son Ray Jennings-Roberson and spiritually adopted grandson Zachary Tabor Jennings-Roberson both of Los Angeles, CA.
John was preceded in death by his mother, Ailene Briscoe Barker, his father, John Whitaker Tabor, and stepfather, Robert E. Barker.
Funeral service will be at 12:00pm, Friday, September 14 at Sparkman/Hillcrest Chapel located at 7405 W. Northwest Highway, Dallas. Family will receive guest at the funeral home from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Friday following the Funeral Service. Interment will be 1:00pm, Saturday, September 15 at Oakwood Cemetery, Honey Grove, TX.
Donations in honor of John can be made to Alzheimer's Foundation of America.
