John E. Grubbs

John E. “Johnnie” Grubbs, age 75, was born on January 20, 1951, in Boynton Beach, Florida. He was raised in Boynton Beach, where his roots, values, and love for education and service were firmly planted. Johnnie peacefully transitioned from this life on January 25, 2026. 

Johnnie was the beloved son of the late Naaman E. Grubbs and Ollie Belle Grubbs. He fell in love with and married Dorothy Haddock, in June of 1973. Two sons were born of this union - John Mark Grubbs (She’Kena) and Peter E. Grubbs, and he took great pride in his family. He was blessed with two handsome grandsons from John Mark (Elijah Grubbs and Noah Grubbs). He was blessed with one beautiful granddaughter from Peter (Jada Nicole Grubbs). His grandson, Elijah, recently blessed him with a beautiful great granddaughter (Jah’nay Monique Marie Grubbs). 

He was surrounded in love by his siblings: Freddie L. Grubbs (Judy), Naaman Grubbs, Jr. (Janet), Dorothy Holliday, Arlene Grubbs Washington (Ernest), Betty Butler (Gary), and Shery Grubbs-Barnes (Alpha). 

He was also preceded in death by his paternal sister, Beverly Love. 

Johnnie also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews and cousins who loved him dearly. 

John’s Academic Achievements / Career Developments 

Johnnie attended Poinciana Elementary School in Boynton Beach and attended Seacrest High School, in Delray Beach, graduating with honors in the class of 1968. Johnnie pursued higher education at Stetson University, located in Deland, Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He dedicated his professional life to education, serving faithfully as a school teacher and positively impacting the lives of countless students through his knowledge, guidance, and commitment. 

In addition to his career in education, Johnnie honorably served his country in the United States Army. He was commissioned as an Army Officer after graduating from Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Fort Benning, exemplifying leadership, discipline, and service to others. Johnnie will be remembered for his intellect, his heart for teaching, his commitment to service, and his enduring love for family. His legacy lives on through those he taught, mentored, and loved. 

Spiritual Legacy 

He was baptized at an early age and began his walk with Christ at New Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Boynton Beach, FL. His faith was rooted in his belief in Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life. At a pivotal moment in his life, Johnnie accepted God’s call into the ministry and became a preacher of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When John stood to preach, the power of God was evident, and the anointing flowed through his delivery of the Gospel. 

One of his favorite scriptures was John 3:16, which declares, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse reflected his understanding of God’s love and salvation. 

Cherished Memories of Close Loved Ones and Friends of John 

He was known to be brilliant, kind, loving, and giving, qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. What people admired most about him was that he lived his life authentically—his own way—unapologetically and wholeheartedly. 

Legacy Statement

“John was an intellectual giant whose academic excellence set him apart. A graduate of Stetson University in DeLand, Florida, he also served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army, earning his commission through Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia. His brilliance, discipline, and dedication will be long remembered.”