John Robert Player

John Robert Player was born on October 26, 1936 in Cape Vincent, New York to Lorraine Frances Gault and Francis Agustus Platts-Player and passed away on March 26, 2026 in Rockwall, TX. He was the first born then quickly was followed by his four younger brothers Dennis, Rick, Jimmy, and Ron. John served in the US Marine Corps where he played the bugle as part of the Drum and Bugle Corp. In 1958, he came to perform at the State Fair of Texas, and this is where he met the love of his life, Ruth. They had just a couple of visits together before he went back to New York and begged his Commanding Officer to allow him to come to Texas and propose. The Officer only agreed if John would re-enlist for four more years, to which he happily agreed. He rushed back to Texas and proposed. Three months later, and after only 5 to 6 face to face visits, they were married on January 10, 1959. They were then blessed with three children: Frances Janell, Kenneth Ray, and Karen Kay.

After John's service in the military, they landed in Texas and first called Mesquite home then Seagoville became their home. They have been active members at Seagoville Church of Christ for over four decades. John had a firm faith in the Lord and expressed gratitude for Ruth showing him the Lord. He often said that Ruth was the best thing that ever happened to him.

Throughout the years, Ruth and John were blessed with five grandchildren: Natalie, Brad, Miranda, Mallory, and Samantha. Family was foundational for John and he valued time spent with them. He also was able to spend many years as a great-grandfather to six precious great-grandchildren: Logan, Jack, Charlotte, Madelyn, Anna, and Iver. John's silly side came out best when a kid was present, as he loved entertaining them or making them laugh.

Our sweet Dad will be so missed but we know without hesitation that we will see him again. "Brothers and Sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him." 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

John's graveside service will be at 1:00 PM on Monday, March 30, 2026 at Forbes Cemetery in Emory, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the charity of your choice or to the Seagoville Church of Christ, 510 N. Kaufman Street, Seagoville, Texas 75159