John David Earls

John David Earls, born December 9, 1959, passed away suddenly on April Fools-Day, 2026: a day that now holds both sorrow and a quiet sense of his mischievous spirit. He was 66 years old.

John loved life deeply, and his infectious laughter had a way of drawing others in—if he was laughing, you couldn’t help but laugh with him. He had a curious and creative spirit, finding joy in film photography and stargazing through his telescope. He loved to collect small trinkets and tokens from his travels and the everyday moments of his life. He loved to tinker—taking things apart just to see how they worked.

Music was always a part of his story. In his younger years, he attended countless concerts, carefully saving ticket stubs that became treasured keepsakes of those experiences. John was known as frequent prankster and a professional teaser, always keeping those around him on their toes.

John dedicated much of his life to his work as a lathe machinist, retiring in 2023 after many years of hard work and craftsmanship. In retirement, he found much happiness in simple pleasures—especially tending to his garden, where his hot pepper plants were a point of pride. He had even prepared the next batch for the coming season. He especially loved traveling out west with Lisa, where the open landscapes and time together brought him a deep sense of happiness and fulfillment.

The Fourth of July was HIS holiday, though truly any day could become a celebration if he had fireworks on hand.

In November of 2018, John made the decision to ask Jesus into his life and was baptized the following month, a meaningful step in his spiritual journey and his life.

He was preceded in death by his cherished parents, Monica Thurman Earls and George Earls II, as well as his siblings Ronnie Thurman, Derrel Martin, and George Earls III.

He leaves behind a large and loving family who will continue to carry his memory forward. He is survived by his beloved Lisa; his siblings Ben (Jeanie) Thurman, Pamela (Bernie) Barbash, and Lucinda Earls; and Elizabeth Earls, the mother of his children.

Father to Shannon Earls, Rachel (Jeffrey) Lewis, John Earls II (Natasha Burns), Angela Klosterman and Moriah Jacobs.

He took great pride in his role as a grandfather to 12 grandchildren and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first great-grandchild this April.

He will be deeply missed by many extended family members and friends.

Visitation will be Monday 4/6/2026 11:00am-1:00pm at Church of God in Jesus, 5604 West Alexandria Road, Middletown, OH.

Funeral will follow at 1:00pm with Pastor Rodney Griffin officiating. 

Interment will be at Rest Haven Memorial Park.

Please sign the guestbook at SpauldingFuneralHome.com