John W. Humphrey, Sr., 61, of Worcester died on Wednesday, September 10th at UMass Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He leaves his beloved mother, Bettye (Richardson) Mograss; six sons, John Humphrey, Jr., Kyle Humphrey, Brandon Humphrey, Luis Ramos, Joseph Clark, and Donald Stewart; eight daughters, Whitney Humphrey, Nykita Humphrey, Jonea Albano, Tiarra Heron, Loni Camdzic, Maerose Clark, Rose Miranda, and Tessa Stewart; two brothers, William J. Humphrey, Sr. of Worcester and Claude A. Humphrey, Sr. of Shrewsbury; two sisters, Sharon J. Humphrey of Shrewsbury, and Anna Maxey of Rhode Island; 38 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife and best friend of 17 years, Laureen (Page) Humphrey and a grandson, Jermaine Humphrey.
He was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, the son of Claude Humphrey, Jr. and Bettye (Richardson) Mograss. A graduate of North High School, John went on to serve in the United States Army National Guard. After his military service, he worked in a variety of roles that reflected his strong work ethic and versatility. He was a truck driver—one of the few proudly known for driving a distinctive purple truck—and most recently served as Housekeeping Manager at the Pyrotechnics Guild International in Webster, where his dedication and warm personality left a lasting impression. John was a man of deep faith and was a devoted member of Second Baptist Church. His spiritual life was an important part of who he was, and his faith guided his actions, relationships, and the compassion he showed to others. John loved the simple joys of life: visiting lighthouses, spending time at the beach, being in nature, and listening to music, especially R&B. He was a talented cook and grill master who found joy in preparing meals for his loved ones, often bringing people together with his legendary BBQs. His laughter was infectious, and his generosity and sense of humor touched everyone around him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness—a life well-lived and deeply cherished.
His funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 18th beginning at 11:00am in Second Baptist Church, 14 Hammond Street. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton. A calling hour will take place on Thursday, September, 18th from 10:00am until the start of the service in the church.