John Clifford Lamphear Jr.
April 14, 1931 — January 16, 2024
Copperas Cove
John Clifford Lamphear Jr. passed away peacefully on January 16, 2024, in Copperas Cove, Texas. He was born on April 14,1931, in Havelock, Nebraska to the late John and Ida (McFarland) Lamphear. John will be remembered as a loving spouse, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.
John was preceded in death by his devoted wife Lucy (Gonzalez). They shared countless memories and built a life together for 61 years. His sisters Betty Richards of Ohio; and Jaqueline Jones of Nebraska also preceded him in death.
He is survived by his children Virginia Lamphear of Salado, TX, John Lamphear III of Copperas Cove, TX, and Edward Lamphear and wife Teri of Vancouver, WA. Kenneth Lamphear and George Lamphear, both of Lincoln NE, mourn the loss of their brother.
John had the pleasure of witnessing the growth of his grandchildren. Tyler Bearden, Salado, TX; Aaron Whatley, Austin, TX; Vicki Honeycutt, Baton Rouge, LA; Melissa Reese and husband Carson, Denver, IN; Megan Zumbuhl, Vancouver, WA; Joanna Lamphear, Lacey WA; and Edison Lamphear, Vancouver, WA.
John was blessed with three great-grandchildren: Theodore, Evelynn, and William. Their presence brought immense joy to John's life.
John enlisted in the Army as a young man and after serving his country with honor and dedication more than 20 years, Sergeant First Class John C. Lamphear Jr. retired, December 31, 1973. His military service was a testament to his bravery and commitment to his country.
Upon retiring from the Army, John became a co-owner at S&J Air Conditioning in Copperas Cove.
John was a proud lifetime member of the Loyal Order of Moose having served as an administrator at Copperas Cove Lodge #2029. He was honored with the dedication of the John C. Lamphear hall.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, John and Lucy enjoyed the excitement of trips to Las Vegas and exploring by riverboat in Louisiana. Fishing and camping allowed him to connect with nature. He enjoyed tending his vegetable garden and he had an affinity for model trains.
John's legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
May he rest in eternal peace.
A Funeral Service will be held January 29, 2024, at the Sneed Carnley Funeral Chapel in Copperas Cove, Texas. The service will commence at 1:00 PM. Following the Funeral Service, a Graveside Service will take place at 3:00 PM at Central Texas Veterans Cemetary in Killeen, Texas.
In honor of John's memory, his family kindly requests that donations be made in lieu of flowers. Donations can be made directly to Moose Lodge 2029, 2828 S FM 116 Kempner, Copperas Cove TX 76522, or online at www.moosecharities.org.