John William Jolly's Obituary
John W. Jolly passed away on February 2, 2020, in Dallas, Texas, at age 88. He was born on December 11, 1931, in De Kalb, Texas, to Ancel and Amanda Jolly.
John loved his family deeply. He was a tireless supporter of every activity that his children and grandchildren participated in, from coaching their youth sports teams to cheering them on at concerts and plays. After retiring from a long career as a national sales manager in the food industry, John devoted his life to helping people in need. He served his church and his community by volunteering for Ark House, Salvation Army, Stephen Ministry, and Meals on Wheels, as well as by leading exercise classes and a nursing home ministry. He will be remembered by his family and friends as a charming, funny, and caring man.
John was preceded in death by his dear wife of 61 years, Barbara Poole Jolly. He is survived by their 4 children and spouses Scott Jolly (Karlene), Russ Jolly (Deborah), Sharla Jolly (Rocky Franklin), and Jim Jolly (Bridgett); 10 grandchildren Zachary, Matthew, Sarah, Ramey, Jenni, Ariel (and her husband Ryan), Jewel, Jenna, James, and Jesse; 2 great-grandchildren Bradley and Elliott; and 1 beloved dog, Jellybean.
The family wishes to thank John’s Nurse Next Door caregivers, especially Dominque, Teresa, Robert, and Heather.
Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 10, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Restland Funeral Home in Dallas, and a Celebration of Life service will be held at First United Methodist Church Richardson on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 4 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Ark House: https://www.arkhousedallas.org/
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?

