John Harris Belton

Life ReflectionMr. John Harris Belton, Jr. was born August 5, 1946 in St. Louis, MO. he was the oldest of 3 children born to Tessie Quentella Reese-Belton and Mr. John Harris Belton, Sr. John Jr. was the only son and big brother to Carol Jean Belton and Georgia Ann Belton-Sheard. His beloved mother nicknamed him "Junior," a name that stuck for a lifetime. Junior had an extended family member who was like a brother, James Fullard. Other friends and family called "Junior" simply "JB", that name stuck too. JB confessed a hope in Christ Jesus at an early age. He was baptized into the Mt. Herald Baptist Church. John loved the Word and studied faithfully every day. Some of his favorite scriptures were Psalm 91, Psalm 23, and Deuteronomy 28. Before the passing of his wife, John and his late wife had devotion in their home daily at 5:00 a.m. or earlier over a cup of brewed coffee. They knew how to pray and meditate in the warmth of their home whether rain or shine. John most recently attended the Family Church with his late wife. John Belton was a product of the St. Louis Public Schools and graduated from the William Beaumont High School. After High School, John was awarded a scholarship to Alcorn College. John was an athlete and excelled in Track and field. For a brief period he played varsity football. He was a "stand out" performer and player. John gave his all and all...he was conscientious. John was drafted into the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam Era. John avoided going to Vietnam because he was an only surviving son among the Belton clan. He was pardoned due to a letter written and sent to, the late President Linden 54 John-son, spearheaded by his mother. John served his country for two years. Though not a violent person, "John Boy", as his colleagues jokingly called him, received medals for being a marksman and sharp shooter. He was honorably discharged. Before leaving for Germany while a soldier, John married his high school sweetheart, Martha Ramona Cothrine. John loved his "Marty", she preceded him in death by just six months, after forty-five plus years of marriage. To this union one son was born, Carlos Donte Belton. John proved to be a good husband and a superb father. He was quiet spoken, faithful and dependable. John Harris Belton, Jr. was employed thirty six years with the U.S. Post Office as a letter carrier. He was respected and admired for his courtesy and professionalism. "John Boy", "Junior", "JB" was a great individual who lived by the Beatitudes in the Word. John Harris was kind, faithful, patient, self-controlled, generous, gentle, joyful, etc. He trusted in his Lord. It's so hard to say goodbye to yesterday. The Lord heard his cry. John passed away quietly at his home on Monday, December 18, 2017. He will be missed by all who loved him. He was the family Patriarch and a pillar in his community. John Harris Belton leaves to cherish his memory: 1 son, Carlos Donte Belton; granddaughters, Alexandria Nicole Belton and Kaileigh Simone Belton, 1 goddaughter, LaJuan Murphy-Williams; 2 sisters, Carol Jean Belton and Georgia Ann Belton-Sheard; 1 sister-in-law, 3 brothers-in-law, 1 daughter-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other family and friends. Interment:J.B. National Cemetery2900 Sheridan AvenueSt. Louis, MO 63125 . Visitation Thursday, Dec 21, 2017 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Williams-James Mortuary, Inc. - Chapel 1424 Dielman Road St. Louis, MO 63132 Visitation Friday, Dec 22, 2017 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM St. Luke A.M.E. Church 9634 Meeks St. Louis, MO 63132 Funeral Service Friday, Dec 22, 2017 10:00 AM - 11:45 AM St. Luke A.M.E. Church 9634 Meeks St. Louis, MO 63132