John Louis Pryor Jr.

John Louis Pryor Jr., of Rockford, Illinois, departed this earthly life on Saturday, October 10, 2026. He was born on January 25, 1955, to the late John Louis Pryor Sr. and Felicia A. (Cox) Pryor.

John attended East High School as a member of the Class of 1973 and later became a certified electrician.

John spent many years employed at Esquire Manufacturing Company. He was an entrepreneur who used his talents as skilled handyman. John could fix just about anything. If something needed repairing, he was often the person people called to get the job done. He had a natural ability to figure things out and always seemed to have the right tool for the job. John took pride in his work and was always willing to use his skills to help others. For John, lending a helping hand and fixing things was a labor of love.

John was also an avid collector who enjoyed discovering unique and interesting items, especially electronics. He had an appreciation for things others might overlook and enjoyed finding ways to refurbish and restore them for others to use.

John had a special love for music and was a talented bass guitar player. He was a member of the band "Just Us," where he enjoyed sharing his musical gifts with others. His love for music came from his father and remained an important part of his life. Whether playing his bass, listening to his favorite songs, or spending time with family and friends, John appreciated life's simple pleasures.

John also enjoyed bringing family and friends together, especially for his cookouts. He loved preparing food and adding his own special flavors to whatever he was cooking. A regular “Chef Boy-r-Dee,” John took pleasure in cooking on the grill for others. His cookouts provided many opportunities for good food, conversation, and time spent with the people he cared about.

John was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Marie Pryor; his parents, John Louis Pryor Sr. and Felicia A. (Cox) Pryor; and his brother, Anthony "Tony" Pryor.

John leaves to cherish his memory his sons, John Pryor III, Corey Norfleet, Marie (Isaac) Cox and Johnny (Roxane) Devereueawax III; and god-daughter Ronda Bacon. Sisters, Connie Davis, Alicia Pryor, Shelly (Nathanial) Gaskin, and Claudette (Terry) Morgan; Twelve grandkids and nine great grandchildren who affectionately called him "Papa." He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Among those who held a special place in John's life were his dear friends, Steve Bragg, Ron Bacon, and Ms. Jeri.

John will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. Although his tools may now rest, the work of his hands and the kindness of his heart will not be forgotten.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave. Visitation 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.