John G. Dove

In Memory of John Grady Dove John Grady Dove was born January 14, 1947, in Decatur, Illinois. He passed away on November 29, 2023. Born to Norine Olive Wall and Grady Videll Dove, who have preceded him in death and is also preceded in death by sister, Mary Dove. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to family. Survived by his wife of 49 years, Iris Guillen Dove, and children: Sheila Copeland (preceded in death, Ken Copeland), Lela Kavanaugh (Lee Kavanaugh), John Dove II (Sydney Dove), Daisy Greek (Steven Greek), Julia Christenson (Brandon Christenson), Karen Peek (Andrew Peek), and Lillian Aragundi (Jose Aragundi). His memory lives on in them and his 17 grandchildren: Nile Copeland, Noah Copeland, James Copeland, Jonah Copeland, Kristen Dove, Brittany Ruiz (Gabriel Ruiz), John Grady Dove III, Ariel Dove, Bella Mock, Sofia Dove, Mikey Dove, Octavian Dove, Daniel Greek, Nathan Greek, Joshua Greek, Aurora Peek, Riley Peek and 2 great-grandchildren: Paloma Ruiz and DeLuka Ruiz. And his bonus daughters and Nieces with their children: Claudia Garza (Juan Garza), Charles, Samuel, Benjamin, and Leah Garza, and Kristle Garza, Andres Aguirre and Ava Aguirre; and 2 sisters, Helen Dove Dill and Lillian Dove Wilson. A proud veteran, John served in the United States Marine Corps, embodying the values of honor, courage, and commitment. John also served as a well-loved teacher starting his career at Raymondville ISD, then Harlingen CISD, then 7 beloved years at Giddings ISD as a welding teacher to students who stayed in contact with him after all these years, then finished at Rio Hondo High School teaching math and drafting. He treated everyone with respect no matter their color or creed and made an effort to connect with students, making them feel seen and valued. However, John could best be described as a perpetual tinkerer who was happiest when immersed in a project, and he was eager to tell you all about it for as long as you were willing to listen. John was a humble and down-to-earth man. He had a knack for telling great stories and cracking absurd jokes, leaving everyone around him smiling. He faced life's challenges with a sneaky smirk and embraced each moment with happiness. Family was everything to John. His devotion to Iris and their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews and who ever needed a home was unwavering. His home was filled with warmth, laughter, love, a dozen projects he’d be tinkering on, and countless index cards filled with notes, jokes, and random musings. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to support John's widow with funeral expenses, Iris Guillen Dove. Your generosity will be a fitting tribute to a man who touched many lives. Iris Dove Zelle 956244-4917 or Venmo @Iris-Dove John Grady Dove will be deeply missed. May his soul rest in peace, surrounded by the love and joy he brought to the world.

John G. Dove

January 14, 1947 - November 29, 2023

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