John Earl Sommers, age 99, went to be with the Lord on October 9, 2026, at Abundant Christian Living Center in Johnson City. Tennessee,

He was born on March 11, 1927, in Saint Louis, Missouri, to the late John and Marilyn Sommers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Goldia Rebecca Sommers; his son, Robin Clay Sommers; his sister, Mar'g Margaret Oaks: and two brothers. Bob Sommers and Jim Sommers.

John graduated from Elizabethton High School in 1945. Shortly after, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1945, serving honorably through the end of World War II. Following his military service, he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering from East Tennessee State University (ETSU), having also gained early employment experience with the 8emberg Rayon Company,

Throughout his distinguished career. John worked as an engineer for Sperry and Raytheon in Bristol, Tennessee. before retiring in 1986. Passionate about education, he also taught night classes at Northeast State Community College. Following his initial retirement, he moved to Ohio to work as an engineer for AEP, and later, upon returning to Johnson City, was recruited by SC Technologies in Columbia, South Carolina, to continue his engineering work.

John was a motorcycle enthusiast since his early teenage years, as well as his love for raising chickens. He owned and operated the Cycle Haven Motorcycle Shop in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Among his most cherished athletic achievements were winning two Golden Gloves boxing titles, numerous heavyweight weightlifting titles. and competing in many 10K road races from age 50 to SQ. He learned his weightlifting techniques from his dear friend, Paul Anderson, the world-renowned Olympic gold medalist.

John is survived by his son, John Christopher Sommers (Tonya): his grandchildren, Kevin Sommers (Amanda). Victoria Hopson Josh), Clayton Sommers (Caitlin). and Alden Sommers; his great-grandchildren. Lucas Hopson, Aurora Hopson, Ariel Hopson, Ezra Sommers, and Annie Jo Sommers; two sisters-in-law, Janette Buck and Marcy Buckles: as well as several beloved nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John's honor to the Wounded Warrior Project or to Abundant Christian Living Center in Johnson City, Tennessee, in gratitude for their compassionate care.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at Happy Valley Memorial Park with Mr. John Grindstaff, officiating. Active pallbearers are Kevin Sommers, Clayton Sommers, Alden Sommers and Josh Hopson. Family and friends are requested to meet at the cemetery at 1:45 p.m.. Condolences may be sent to our website at www.memorialfcelizabethton.com.

Memorial Funeral Chapel is serving the Sommers Family