John David Bethea

John David Bethea, known affectionately as John David, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, September 30, 2023. In keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal service held. 

John David was born on January 28, 1985, in Jackson, MS. He graduated from Canton Academy and received his Bachelor of Science from Mississippi College. John David worked in various fields, but ultimately returned to his favorite employer, Allegrezza Piano, Co.

John David was a beloved husband, father, brother, son, and a loyal friend. He leaves behind cherished memories that will forever be held close in the hearts of his loved ones. 

There was nothing John David treasured more than spending quality time with his friends and loved ones. Family meant the world to John David. He adored his wife and children and cherished every moment they spent together. Being a loving father absolutely brought out the best in John David. Ainsley and John Asher were fortunate to call him their dad. John David spent countless hours with his kids playing ball, teaching them about music, and showing them that it’s ok to always be a kid at heart. John David looked forward to going to Florida every year with his family and in-laws, where he would relax, enjoy beach life, and eat as many oysters as he could. The beach truly was his happy place.

Anyone who knew John David knew of his encyclopedic knowledge of music. It seemed that there wasn't a song he couldn't identify or a band he couldn't name off the top of his head. His passion for music went beyond mere enjoyment; it fueled conversations and created connections among friends and strangers alike. He could effortlessly share anecdotes about songwriters or band members with anyone willing to listen.  In addition to his love for music, John David enjoyed hunting, fishing, guns, throwing the football around, and his furry canine companion, Bo.

John David was passionate about helping others with both his time and resources. Always willing to offer a helping hand, whether a big task such as cutting up downed trees, or something simple like just being present when someone is down, he simply wanted to be of service to those in need. 

The world has lost a kind soul in John David, but his spirit will live on through his children, the memories he created, and the love he shared. He touched the lives of countless individuals and left an indelible mark on their hearts. 

John David was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, John and Joyce Allegrezza.

He is survived by his wife, Jennifer; children, Ainsley and John Asher; parents, James and Sandra Bethea; sister, Lindsay Bethea Bainbridge (Chad); grandparents, David and Joyce Bethea; father- and mother-in-law, Steve and Sherry Bullock; brother-in-law, Jarred Creel (Kaitlin); sisters-in-law, Anna and Alyse Bullock; two nephews, Henry and Atlas; and a host of aunts and uncles, great aunts and uncles, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to his children’s college fund, a Special Account has been established at Trustmark National Bank for this purpose. The smallest donation is the greatest gesture you could make.

“as we all play parts of tomorrow

Some ways will work and other ways we’ll play

But I know we all can't stay here forever 

So I want to write my words on the face of today

And then they'll paint it”  - Blind Melon