John L. Hawthorne

December 1, 1934 – August 14, 2014 John “Johnny” Lawrence Hawthorne, 79, of Springfield, VA, departed this world unexpectedly on, Thursday, August 14, 2014 to be with his Lord and Savior. Born in Alexandria, VA to Alvin and Anna Hawthorne, John was the eighth of thirteen children. He graduated from George Washington High School in 1953 and retired in 1997 from the Department of Defense with over 30 years of service. John was an active member of Immanuel Bible Church, of Springfield, VA, for almost fifty years. Loving all God’s creatures, John was an avid animal lover sharing his home with a variety of cats, dogs and the occasional squirrel. Mark 12:31, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” best describes John’s life. His generosity, compassion and commitment to his fellow man were limitless. Everyone was a friend and every encounter was an opportunity to witness for his Lord. John enjoyed many activities and hobbies to include: Gardening, finding a bargain and making his famous homemade applesauce. John is preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, and love of his life, Barbara Ann Hawthorne; parents Alvin & Anna Hawthorne; brothers, William Hawthorne, Wayne Hawthorne; sisters, Bessie Horton, Elsie Bademan, Evelyn Middleton and Patricia Rice. John is survived by his three children, four grandchildren and one great grandchild. Memorial services will be held at Immanuel Bible Church, 6911 Braddock Road, Springfield, VA 22151 on Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at 11:00am. The family will host a visitation at the church prior to the service for extended family and friends from 9:30 – 11:00. A short graveside service will immediately follow the church proceedings at National Memorial Park located at 7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA 22042. The family requests in lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the animal rescue organization Homeward Trails (homewardtrails.org) or to your local animal rescue.