John Wesley Bullock

John Wesley Bullock was born on January 27, 1933 in Durham, North Carolina to the late James and Elnora Watson Bullock. Very quietly and peacefully, Almighty God called him home on Monday, Januaty 23, 2017. "J.B." as he was affectionately called, was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers,and three sisters. John loved life and was very witty and hilarious. One of his favorite metaphors was, "If I tell you blackberries are ripe, you better get your bucket." He grew up in a religious family. He joined and was baptized in the First Congregation Baptist Church as a young child. John was educated in the Durham City Schools and graduated from Hillside High School. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the army. He served in the Korean War and received an honorable discharge with the rank of Corporal. After dating the love of his life, Geraldine, affectionately called "Gerald," the couple married on May I 0, 1975 in Richmond, Virginia. John loved his wife and family. He and Gerald traveled extensively across the country and to many beautiful islands. John was employed by Pitney Bowes, Inc. for many years. He retired from the company as a Service Technician with a perfect attendance record. Following retirement from Pitney Bowes he worked at the Virginia Historical Society as a Security Guard. A part-time job that began as something to do for a few months evolved into thirteen years of dedicated service. John joined Fifth Street Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. Dr. Roscoe Cooper, Jr. when the church was located downtown on Fifth Street. He remained a faithful member of the church for 41 years where he worked reliably on several committees and ministries. He was a member of the Brotherhood Bible Class and served as secretary of the Men's Ushers Ministry # I. John was a dependable usher and you could always find him on his post at the front door near the pulpit every 4th Sunday. His love of community service prompted John to become a member and leader in many organizations outside of the church. John's masonic affiliations include: PM Capital City #107, PHP Richmond Chapter #4 Holy Royal Arch, PTIM Richmond Council #4 Royal and Select Masters, PEC Mt. Olivet #2 Knights of Templar, Sublime Prince Richmond, Consistory #22, Honorary Past Potentate Mocha Temple #7, A.E.A.O.N.M.S. John demonstrated exemplary leadership in the masonic houses in which he served. He was most proud to serve as Marshall, a position he held with pride and distinction for more than 25 years. He will continue to hold the title of Marshall through the 2017 administration of the Illustrious Potentate. John leaves to cherish his memory, Gerald, his loving and devoted wife of 41 years; five children, Evelyn Waddell, Kenneth Bullock, and Leonard Bullock (Yolanda) of Richmond, Virginia, Terry Bullock of Durham, North Carolina, and Rodney Bullock (Kim) of Chicago, Illinois; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Herlene Lewis of Durham, North Carolina; four sisters-in-law; Helen L. Faucette (William), Dr. Lillie Lewis Andrews of Durham, North Carolina, Jessie R. Geiger of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and Carolyn B. Lewis of White Plains, Maryland; a host of nieces and nephews; devoted church friend, Deacon Therrnond Thomas; and Bessie Short, dedicated caregiver.

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John Wesley Bullock

January 27, 1933 - January 23, 2017