John Anthony Stokes

John Anthony Stokes, age 80 of Brentwood passed away on November 13, 2020. He was born January 13, 1940 in Nashville to the late Will L. and Madge V. Stokes. John attended the University of Tennessee, Florida State University, and the Nashville School of Law. He was preceded in death by his two brothers Blaine Stokes and Mike Stokes.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia Templeton Stokes; son John M. Stokes (Christina), Gainesville, Fl., daughters Toni Ann Wojcul (Mark), Sarasota, Fl., and Traci Stokes of Nashville. He took special delight in his 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Stokes was employed by Genesco, Inc for 17 years in a number of senior management positions focusing on the International divisions. He left Genesco in 1979 and formed his own International Management Company representing a number of major companies with their Foreign and Military Sales. Mr. Stokes spent more than 30 years traveling abroad. He was a member of numerous civic clubs and organizations.

In John’s words, ‘the 3 most important things in his life were: Family, Church and Rotary.’

John was a member and former President of the Brentwood Rotary Club and served in a number of District Rotary positions with many years of perfect attendance. He was a recipient of the Paul Harris Award, the Bob Billington Award, the Dan Askew Award, and the Four Avenues of Service Award. John truly exemplified the Rotary motto ‘service above self.’

He was a member of the Church of the Advent Episcopal Church where he served as a former member of the Vestry, Usher, and Lay Eucharist Minister.

His life will be celebrated at a private family graveside service. In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful for donations to the Brentwood Rotary Club, Charitable Foundation, PO Box 382, Brentwood, TN 37024 or the Church of the Advent Episcopal, 5501 Franklin Pike, Nashville, TN 37220.