Dr. John T. Young

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. John T. Young, a beloved father, dedicated physician, and respected member of the community. On July 29, 2023, Dr. Young passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy that all who had the privilege of knowing him will cherish. Born on May 27, 1927, in Scooba, Mississippi, John Thomas Young was a man of exceptional intelligence and boundless compassion from an early age. He demonstrated his academic prowess by graduating with High Honors from Fisk University before pursuing his passion in the field of medicine at the prestigious Howard University Medical School where he graduated in 1952. Driven by a genuine desire to help others, he dedicated his life to the field of pediatrics, specializing in asthma and sickle cell treatment. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Young made remarkable contributions to the medical community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless patients and their families. His unwavering dedication to serving underserved children in the Indianapolis area garnered him national recognition and numerous accolades, solidifying his status as a pillar of the medical profession. Dr. Young’s impact extended far beyond his medical practice. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, receiving an honorable discharge in 1958. As an active member of Witherspoon Presbyterian Church since 1960, Dr. Young embodied the Christian principles of compassion, love and service. As an advocate for the city’s underserved children, Dr. Young served on the board of Managed Health Services for many years. His commitment to social equity was evident through his lifelong membership in the NAACP. He was also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. A true community leader, Dr. Young was actively involved in various local organizations, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among his neighbors and peers. His warm smile, wisdom, and genuine interest in others made him an exceptional mentor and friend to many. In his free time, Dr. Young enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid Diamond Life Master Bridge player and Colts fan. He was also known for his love of traveling which he shared with his wife and children. Dr. Young was preceded in death by his parents, George and Katie (Haire) Young; his first wife Cora (Nash) Young; brother Earnest Young: and sisters Minnie Tiller, Bettie Creer, Carrie Hampton, Sarah Young, Ernestine Floore, Emma Dee Williams, Mary Hamilton and Christine Chaney. He is survived by his loving wife, Ronda J. Young, and his five children, Gregory Young, Angela Young, Marc Eric Young (Kiyomi), Tamika Knox (William) and Shannon Young; his grandchildren Chezik Tsunoda, Talia Beam, Jonathan Young, Amara Young, Lachelle Knox, William Knox Jr, Mia Rose Davis, Alexander Knox; his sister in laws Martha Young, Steffany Evans, and Madella Davis and his faithful caregiver Terry Vaughn. Dr. John T. Young leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy will continue to shine through the lives he touched. As we gather to remember the remarkable life, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the hearts of all those he influenced. A memorial service to honor Dr. John T. Young’s life will be held on August 12, 2023, at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church 418 E. 34th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205, led by Witherspoon Presbyterian Church, at 11:00 AM, with visitation from 9:00 AM. May his soul find eternal peace, and may his memory inspire us all to live with the same compassion, dedication, and love that he exemplified throughout his life. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.crownhill.org for the Young family.