John Wesley Zachary, Jr.

John Wesley Zachary Jr. passed away on December 20, 2025, in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was a devoted son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend to many. Born in Waco, Texas, on April 28, 1960, to John Zachary Sr. and Irene Lacy- Zachary. John lived a life rich with adventure, laughter, sports, and kindness. He was well-known for his warm smile, stoic demeanor, unwavering generosity, and a touch of impatience.

John grew up in Waco and attended Waco High School, where he excelled on the Waco High Tiger Football and Track teams. He was named All District Defensive End in his senior year. After graduating from Waco High School in 1978, John continued his academic and football excellence at Prairie View A&M. He was named to the All SWAC Defensive Team in 1980 and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Prairie View A&M University in 1983.

For many years, John worked in Psychiatric Counseling before embracing the adventure of becoming an Equine Veterinary Dental Assistant. His work took him across Louisiana, Texas, and Arkansas, where he earned respect for his dedication, hard work, and outspoken personality. John also uses this talent through the Afrikan Arts Counsel. Inc. that his mother chaired as Executive Director. John approached every task with diligence and enthusiasm, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of working alongside him.

John was a super fan of the Dallas Cowboys. He enjoyed watching college and professional football, finding joy in the simple moments spent with his brothers, whether it was watching games together or having long telephone conversations about the weekend’s mashups. He also had a passion for cooking, often preparing extra meals in case someone dropped by, despite living alone.

John was preceded in death by his father, John W. Zachary Sr., and his brother, David (Tate) Knox. He will be deeply missed by his children, Treylin Crayton (Austin, TX), Zakahriya Zachary (Dallas, TX), and Zahriya Zachary (Greensboro, NC); JaMiracle Taylor of (Shreveport, LA) his granddaughter, Shekinah Crayton (Dallas, TX); and grandsons Kiari Zachary (Dallas, TX) and Princeton JaMir Washington (Shreveport, LA) his mother, Irene Lacy-Zachary (Shreveport, LA); his brothers, Jimmy Stewart (Carol) and Mance Zachary (Karen) of Dallas, TX; his sisters, Keisha Knox (Shreveport, LA) and Kimberely Wells (Gerald) of Richmond, TX); nine nephews; three nieces; six great-nephews and three great-nieces; and a host other cousins, family members, and friends.

Celebration of Life Services will be held on January 3, 2025, at Winnfield Funeral Home in Shreveport, LA at 11:00am.