John E. Thrower Jr.

John E. Thrower, Jr., 49, was born January 8, 1971 to John E. Thrower, Sr. and Constance M. Thrower in Richmond, Virginia. He was affectionately known as Jay to his family. At an early age, John accepted Christ as his Savior. In his faith journey, he fellowshipped with different churches around Richmond. Faith and Family Church became his spiritual home. Educated in Richmond Public Schools, he was a Class of 1989 Armstrong Kennedy High School graduate. From April 25, 2014, John had the best reason in his life to flash a never-ending smile when he married the apple of his eye Tracey Renee´ Brown in Richmond, Virginia. Their union was blessed as a wonderfully blended family with four children. For many years John was the lead cook for Morningside Assisted Living Facility. In 2015, after encouragement from a good friend, he changed careers. John completed the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) training and earned a coveted position as a transit operator. For nearly six years, he was a dedicated bus operator and union member. John was adored by his peers and frequent riders. As an essential worker during COVID-19, John donned the proper protective apparel and continued cheerfully carrying his passengers to their destinations. John was a compassionate man who was very loving and protective of his family. During most of his waking moments, John was smiling and had an encouraging word for those around him. He really enjoyed spiritual discussions with friends and family. In his leisure-time, John was a fun-loving traveler who could never find his keys in his pocket or Tracey in the next room. When he wasn’t traveling, he loved cooking for and spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed watching his favorite football team the Pittsburgh Steelers. On September 23, 2020, after a courageous fight due to complications from COVID-19, he surrendered his earthly body and entered into eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his parents. John leaves to cherish his memories, devoted wife, Tracey R. Thrower; son, Jaishaun Thrower; bonus-children, Shonte’ Wade, Lavon Wade and Bria Stamper; bonus-grandchildren, Devon, Jaylin, Zion, Josiah and Jabari; god-sister, LaTeice Hartman; god-children, Raine Cummings, Ethan Morgan and Armanté Golden; brother, Lamont Thrower; sisters, Alice O. Snell and AliceTine Winston (Dennis); mother-in-law, Vicky Brown; father-in-law, Melvin Brown (Marilyn); brothers-in-law, Melvin L. Brown (Pat), Bryant Brown and Kevin Brown; devoted friend Brian West; as well as a host of other relatives and

Tributes

John E. Thrower Jr.

January 8, 1971 - September 23, 2020