John Frank Kincaid

When reflecting on the life of John Kincaid, words such as dedicated, generous and hardworking come to mind, yet it will be his unending love for his family that will be his lasting legacy. Throughout his lifes journey, he was accompanied by his unwavering faith that was an inspiration to all who were within his reach. With the love of his life by his side for nearly 56 years, John witnessed his family tree blossom to include branches of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all who brought his life immeasurable joy. Life will never be the same without John, but the memories he leaves behind will remain lasting treasures in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.

The 1930s were defined by the most challenging trials as the nation was cloaked in the hardships of the Great Depression. The American spirit remained alive, however, and people found joy wherever they could. It was in this spirit that Edgar and Effie (Fletcher) Kincaid of Primrose, Kentucky welcomed the birth of their son, John Frank Kincaid, on October 31, 1934. John was one of twelve children in his family, and was raised in their family home in Primrose. When John was 14, he took a life changing trip with his grandmother to Noble County, Indiana to visit relatives. He fell in love with the area and quickly found work on a local farm so he could stay. In time, his family started moving up as well, and remained here the rest of their days.

John received his education in the area schools, and eventually followed the same patriotic calling of other young men of the time, enlisting in the U.S. Army. He always looked forward to getting letters from home from his friends and family while he was away, but letters from a particularly sweet someone always brought a smile to his face. Her name was Nancy Elizabeth Frain, and she was a neighbor of one of Johns close friends, who had asked her to write to John. Through their letters, a romance blossomed, and after completing basic training, John returned home to meet his sweet Nancy. After a 2-year courtship, John and Nancy were happily married on October 31, 1959, in Columbia City, Indiana. The newlyweds put down roots in Whitley County, and it wasnt long before they welcomed the birth of their first child, son Dean. Unfortunately, John was called back into the service when Dean was just a month old, to serve his country during the Berlin Crisis of 1961. He was away for 9 months, stationed in Tacoma, Washington, before he could return home to his wife and son. Soon after, the couple delighted in welcoming the birth of their second son, Steven, who completed their family.

A devoted family man, John cared deeply for his family and showed it by providing faithfully for them and sharing much love and laughter. He worked for 32 years at Dana Weatherhead in Columbia City before retiring in 1988. John was also a devout Christian and faithful member of Ormas Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon. Formerly, he was a member of the Community Bible Church in Columbia City, where he served as Financial Secretary, Deacon and Trustee. In any situation, John looked to his Bible for strength, understanding and teaching. With faith as his guide, he accomplished much in life and loved abundantly.

John did not need great things in his life to make him happy. He cherished every moment with his family and absolutely loved being a Grandpa and Great-Grandpa. Spending time with his grandkids was some of the happiest moments in Johns life. In his leisure time, John had several hobbies that kept him busy. He enjoyed the challenge of solving puzzles, and was quite a skilled woodworker, making beautiful shelves, cabinets and rocking horses for his beloved family. Although John will be deeply missed, his legacy of love and dedication leaves his loved ones with wonderful memories and a strong foundation to look to for comfort.

John Frank Kincaid, 80, of Columbia City, Indiana passed away at 10:40 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2015, at his home. Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Nancy Kincaid; sons, Dean Alan (Jo) Kincaid of Columbia City and Steven Lee (Paula) Kincaid of South Whitley; brothers, Billy (Shannon) Kincaid of Beattyville, Kentucky and Robert Joseph (Barbara) Kincaid of Asheboro, North Carolina; sister, Eunice Sheckler of Columbia City; 5 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Gracie Mathias, Sara Clark, Hazel Hollon Richards; and brothers, Bradford Hollon, Marion Kincaid, Millard Kincaid, Melvin Kincaid, and Edgar Blaine Kincaid Jr.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 20, 2015, from 4 to 8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes, a Life Story Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m., Tuesday, April 21, 2015, at the funeral home with Pastors John Cummings and Curtiss Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Adams Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be given in Mr. Kincaid's memory to Lakeland Child Evangelism Ministries or Ormas Baptist Church.