John Colan Clemons

Mr. John Colan Clemons, 71, of Tucson, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, March 29, 2026.

John was born on October 21, 1954, in Tallahassee, Florida to Mert and Erlene Clemons. He married the love of his life, Cheryl Clemons, on May 12, 1981, and together they built a life centered around family, laughs, food, faith and service until her passing on June 19, 2023.

John proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army for 22 years, and is a combat veteran, retiring in March of 1992. His dedication to service extended beyond his military career into his everyday life. He was a believer in God and attended Pantano Christian Church, where his faith remained a guiding force.

John had a deep love for music, sports, and his family, and was a devoted fan of the Florida State Seminoles. He spent many years coaching youth sports in Texas, where he lived for over 30 years, sharing his knowledge, discipline, and love of the game with the next generation. He was known for his slyly sharp and funny sense of humor, often bringing laughter to those around him in a quiet, memorable way. Whether he was on the sidelines, spending time with family, or in the kitchen perfecting what many would say was the world’s best BBQ sauce, John found joy in the simple moments and the people he loved most.

John leaves to cherish his memory his four loving daughters, Karla Jean Clemons, Angela Trevizo, Shannon Walker-Pegues (Richard), and Kristy Clemons-Pettigrew; two brothers, Keith Clemons and Keenan Clemons; fourteen grandchildren; four bonus grandchildren by love, one great grandchild, three nieces and nephews, and a host of extended family and friends who loved him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his devoted wife, Cheryl Clemons, his brother Robert and his parents, Mert and Erlene Clemons.

Services will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at Martinez Funeral Home.

John’s legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on through all who knew and loved him.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” — John 14:27