John T. Mann

CWO4 John Thomas Mann (USN Retired)

John Thomas Mann, passed on February 07, 2025 at the age of 76 in Jacksonville, Florida.

John was born August 6, 1948 in St. Louis, Missouri. John had a thriving military career, but his proudest titles were husband, father, papa. He was a serious man, but his grandbabies and great grandbabies melted his heart and brought ultimate joy to his life. 

John was a talented basketball player who was a star in high school and even on base teams throughout his career, often the “old man” on the team until his ankles finally made him give up the game. Another passion of his was doing yard work. John took so much pride in having the best yard in the neighborhood, even when Shirley would tell him it was too hot, John would be out mowing his grass ensuring it was perfect. 

John and Shirley made military life with four kids look easy. They both enjoyed the adventures and making new friends from Jacksonville, FL to San Francisco, CA to Atsugi Japan for their final two-year tour. John knew none of his success would have been possible without the love of his life and for that he placed her above all others. He was the most amazing caregiver to Shirley and was there by her side until the very end. Just eight months ago, John lost Shirley and with that loss he suffered a broken heart that could not be healed until he was back by her side. In true John Mann fashion, he joined her just one day prior to their 47th Wedding Anniversary. 

John was preceded in his death by his dad Leonard Alvin Mann and beloved wife Shirley Mann.

 John is survived by his four children Kim (John) Butler, Richard (Natalie) Warmack, Christopher (Stephanie) Mann and Tina (Ross) Runnels. Grandchildren: Joseph Acosta, Taylor White, Zachary Mann, Johnny Butler, Aubrey (Daniel) Lowe, Hannah Runnels, Jonah Runnels, Lleyton Warmack, Elin Warmack; Great-Grandchildren: Malia Lowe, Neo Wetherby, Josey Wetherby, Isaac Lowe, Jayden Acosta.

Fair Winds and Following Seas CWO4 John “GUNNER” Mann—Dad.