John P. Curtis Jr. (“JP” or “Jr”) was born in Hampton, VA on July 24, 1961, to John P. and Lucy D. Curtis (deceased). Hemoved to Washington, DC at the age of 2 where he resided until his graduation from Frank W. Ballou High School at the age of 17. He immediately enlisted in the US Navy and served “20 years and one day,” as he jokingly often stated, serving as Quartermaster aboard the USS Thorn, USS Sierra, and USS Aquila. While in the Navy, John also served as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. John’s career did not end with his Navy retirement — he also had a successful dual career as a Behavioral Teen Counselor and a well-respected real estate agent.
On Christmas Eve, 1987, John married the love of his life, Charlotte, and in this union their families joined in their love, including their 3 Dobermans through the years – Oki, Storm, and now Asa. It was during the many family gatherings that John expanded on his mastery for grilling – making the best chicken wings and bacon-wrapped jalapenos and turkeys. John loved the Lord and was a man of great faith. His favorite scripture being, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV).
It was important for John to make the world a better place. In 1994, he received a Letter of Commendation from the US Navy for a life-saving incident. A year prior, he joined the Hampton Roads Big Brother/Big Sister program and became a “Big Brother” (mentor) to James, forming a life-long relationship he has treasured until his passing. John was admired for his natural ability to make a difference in the lives of kids and teens. He was a man of compassion, a light in the dark. John created and implemented a program, “180 Degree T.U.R.N.” and was recognized for outstanding dedication to making a difference in supporting the Norfolk Educational Transition (NET) Academy Program in June 2015.
John will be remembered for his remarkable intelligence, zest for life, humor, and charming personality – a true renaissance man. He had a love for photography and a great fondness for everything Bob Marley — his music, style, and human rights advocacy. His favorite tune? “One Love,” of course. John will be eternally loved and missed by many. His wit and free spirit will never be forgotten.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Charlotte, of 33 years; father, John P. Curtis (retired USAF); siblings: Michael, Patrick, Jackie, Kim, Donna, Juan, Monica (Vincent), Patricia, and Anthony (Janel); nieces: Sabrina, Dana “Dee,”Charlie, and Jamese; and nephews: Patrick (Sherrita), Andrew, and Pat; brother-in-law, Benjamin “Benny,” and a host of cousins, great nieces, nephews and friends. John was predeceased by his mother, Lucy Davis; sister-in-law, Carolyn Jean; brother-in-law, James; nephew, Juan; and niece, Penny.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s name to hisfavorite charity — St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Condolences(25)-
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Lillian Thompson & family says
February 19, 2021 at 12:46 pmMy heart prayers are with the family. GOD has called one of his angels home.
Justin Mcphee says
November 8, 2023 at 1:23 amMr Curtis… your white son. I think of you every day and I miss you so much… you were my here mentor and I saw you as a father figure. I know last thing you said to me is you had to tell me something… I had no idea… I need you always and miss you and charlotte… I went to your home to comfort her but she is gone. I LOVE YOU!!! My hero my best friend a father figure… you visited my son when he was born and I’m sorry I wasn’t doing so good and I knew you knew. I need you and and pray to run into charlotte one day. I love you dad… rest in peace the best man I ever knew call me visit me teach me with your spirit I am always going to need you. Never had there lived a better man than you JP… I love you and will honor you please visit me and ofcourse Charlotte… – your “white son” your “son” – Justin McPhee
Jeff Every says
February 19, 2021 at 12:47 pmMy condolences to Charlotte and the Curtis family. I served with John on the USS Sierra AD-18, Charleston, SC. & in Yokosuka, Japan. John was an awesome friend and great shipmates. Unto we meet again my bother, RIP.
Andrea Callahan says
February 21, 2021 at 10:57 amAndrea & Whitney Callahan says,
We thank you God for a beautiful soul, our friend, John. My family and I have known him for 25 plus years and we will forever miss him. My condolences to his beautiful wife Charlotte and the entire Curtis family. RIP my dear friend.
Marvetta Curtis - White says
February 22, 2021 at 2:41 pmMy condolences, prayers and blessings to the family. Sorry to hear of your loss. I only got to meet John once at a family gathering, but family is everything. From one Service member to another, thank you for your service. Much love.
Joan Curtis Waters says
February 23, 2021 at 10:57 amCondolences and family love to Charlotte and John’s family. Praying that cherished memories & God’s love comfort you during this difficult time. You are in our hearts as we grieve with you.
Katrina Morris Chandler says
February 23, 2021 at 7:20 pmI send my deepest condolences to Charlotte and the entire Curtis family. May you be comforted by the love of Jesus and knowing that Jr is with his Lord and Savior. Forever grateful for his life and legacy ? ?? ✝️
Ed & Jeanne Wells says
February 24, 2021 at 10:35 amOur condolences to you Charlotte and family. We cherish our time together with you and John in Japan and wish we could have lived closer over the years. John had a wonderful gift for connecting with the young service members coming through our program. His spirit and dedication brought great relief to me as his colleague. I am grateful that I was able to reconnect after getting out of the Navy. Fair Winds and Following Seas, Shipmate. May you Rest In Peace.
Cynthia Thompson says
February 23, 2021 at 7:50 pmWords cannot express the deep feeling of loss we feel right now. To know John was a blessing. To be considered one of his friends was a gift. He was such a special guy. Amazing character and a heart full of compassion. He was a shining light to the world. He will be missed more than we can say. Rest well my friend. You will NEVER be forgotten. ❤️❤️❤️
Dr. Fontaine M. Ferebee-Johns says
February 24, 2021 at 10:02 amThe Chesapeake Public Schools ISAEP program was blessed to experience the mentoring compassion of Mr. Curtis. His ability to meet our students at their point of need was phenomenal. Mr. Curtis would share that his special gift was the result of his not “thinking like a parent”. We are deeply saddened by this great community loss but relish in gratefulness for having our lives forever changed by John’s positivity and charm. We continue to utilize the lessons learned from embracing “180 Turn”
Karen Perry, Former Principal NET Academy says
February 24, 2021 at 7:20 pmMr. Curtis was truly a gentle spirit with a unique ability to reach and mentor students (especially those at-risk) with his “180 Degree T.U.R.N.” program. His love and commitment for young people were a gift and a blessing to the school program at NET Academy. My deepest sympathy and prayers are with his wife Charlotte and family.
Faith will lift you up, Love will bring you comfort, and Strength will allow you to move forward. May God Bless You All.
Rodney & Robin Williams says
February 25, 2021 at 2:10 amContinued prayers for the entire family, Such a great spirit. He will always be remembered and never forgotten his Spirit will live on. May God forever be with you and keep you.
Rita M. Hollins says
February 25, 2021 at 9:53 pmDear Charlotte & Curtis Family,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Jr. was well respected and loved by the Hollins family and me. I will continue to pray that the Lord give you all strength and peace during this transition.
Love Always,
Rita M. Hollins
Justin Mcphee says
November 8, 2023 at 1:24 amMr Curtis… your white son. I think of you every day and I miss you so much… you were my here mentor and I saw you as a father figure. I know last thing you said to me is you had to tell me something… I had no idea… I need you always and miss you and charlotte… I went to your home to comfort her but she is gone. I LOVE YOU!!! My hero my best friend a father figure… you visited my son when he was born and I’m sorry I wasn’t doing so good and I knew you knew. I need you and and pray to run into charlotte one day. I love you dad… rest in peace the best man I ever knew call me visit me teach me with your spirit I am always going to need you. Never had there lived a better man than you JP… I love you and will honor you please visit me and ofcourse Charlotte… – your “white son” your “son” – Justin McPhee
Juan Pierre Curtis says
February 25, 2021 at 11:18 pmJr, as kids, we lived together
We fought, we laughed, we cried.
We did not always show the love,
that we both had inside.
We shared our dreams and plans,
and some secrets too.
All the memories we share,
Is what bonds me now to you.
We grew to find we have a love
that is very strong today.
It’s a love shared by our family,
that will never fade away.
You are my brother not by choice,
but by the nature of our birth
I could not have chosen a better one
you were the best on earth.
I miss you already : (
You went away so suddenly
We did not say goodbye
But brothers can never be parted
Precious memories never die.
Malissa says
December 29, 2023 at 10:23 amThis is so beautiful; just like your brother. He impacted so many and is truly missed! John was a life well-lived! Blessings to you and your family.
Tom and Maureen Gallagher says
February 26, 2021 at 9:42 amContinued love and prayers for Charlotte and the entire Curtis family. John was such a bright light. Always a friendly smile and good word. A wonderful neighbor all of these years. He will be missed.
Reggie Thompson says
February 26, 2021 at 11:38 amWords cannot describe the way I feel it just doesn’t seem real. Im going to miss my friend. I’m praying for you Charlotte. Let us know if you need anything. God Bless You.
Keisha says
February 26, 2021 at 11:59 amI’m going to hold the memories of Curt in my heart. I will never forget the corny jokes, the joaning and all the laughs we had. My prayers to Charlotte and his family. My summer in Key West at the age of 16 was the best because of him. I love you forever
Mike Paris says
February 26, 2021 at 12:06 pmJohn was a good man. He was kind, quick with a smile, and quick to make you smile. When I started a small landscaping company many years ago, John and his wife gave me an opportunity to take care of their lawn. There was not anything he wouldn’t do for someone else, as he truly cared for the well-being of others. I am confident that the world is better for John’s time with us and the example he provided.
Maya Angelou said I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel… I always felt great in John’s presence. May God hold him in the palm of His hand until we meet again.
Carolyn Curtis says
February 26, 2021 at 12:45 pm2/26/21
Dear Cousin:
God has decided that your time and journey on this earth has now ended, and He has chosen to place you in another chapter of your life. May God care for your family and friends and may they look and reach out to Him for their comfort and guidance. My condolences to Charlotte, your Dad and Elsie, and the rest of your family.
Love,
Carolyn Curtis
Mason Kenneth says
February 26, 2021 at 1:34 pmRIP
JR
KENYMAN
Donna Archer says
February 26, 2021 at 7:12 pmI send my deepest condolences to the Curtis family. Junior was one of the nicest men I’ve ever known. He’s gone too soon and will be missed dearly. May God bless his soul and comfort his family during this time of deep sorrow. May he rest in peace.
Gary & Kim Webster says
February 27, 2021 at 9:54 amMay God continue to bless you and your family. Brother, Friend and Shipmate, you will be missed but not forgotten! Rest in power knowing that you completed your mission. Now take your rightful seat at the right hand of the father, who is well pleased with thy good and faithful servant! We love you!
Gary & Kim Webster
Denise Williams says
March 2, 2021 at 4:49 pmSending my deepest condolences to you Charlotte. I worked across the hall from JP at the CON a while ago and every time I saw him he greeted me with a pleasant hello and small conversation. A real kool guy with a heart of gold. May he rest peacefully. Peace and Blessings to you and the family.
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