John Paul Meeks, Jr.

John Paul Meeks Jr, age 79, of Avon Park, Florida, passed away on February 22, 2026. He was born on February 11, 1947, in Jacksonville, Florida to his loving parents Myrtice and John Paul Meeks, Sr.

John was a proud veteran, fearlessly and faithfully serving his country in the United States Army. While serving in the Vietnam War he was wounded. His service led him to be a lifelong member of the VFW and American Legion where he found community and comradery among other brave veterans. John was married for 20 years and raised two sons. He faced many struggles in life but treated others with compassion and generosity. He will be remembered for his kind spirit, frequently lending a hand to family and friends in need. He donated to various organizations he felt passionate about supporting, such as the Shriners, Highlands County Humane Society, and the Highlands County Sheriff's Office.

He worked in many different fields and positions in his life, ultimately retiring from his career as a Roadside Supervisor for the Florida Department of Transportation. His kind heart was displayed in his love for animals, as he frequently was known to ‘adopt’ animals he believed he could provide a good life to. It is for that reason that in lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in John’s memory to the Highlands County Humane Society to assist in the care of the lives they provide for there.

John is preceded in passing by his parents and sisters; Shirley and Mary.

He is survived by brothers; John David “Buddy” Meeks, Don Meeks, sister; Paula Price, sons; Brian Austin (Alice) Meeks, John Paul (Jennifer) Meeks III, and grandchildren, Karisa, Kayla, Michael, Sydney, and John Meeks.

A memorial service for John will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home of Avon Park, beginning at 11 a.m. Family will begin receiving friends for visitation at 10 a.m.

Arrangements entrusted to:Stephenson-Nelson Funeral HomeAvon Park, FloridaOnline condolences may be left atwww.stephensonnelsonfh.com

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