John Dale Umbarger, Jr.  1958-2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Dale Umbarger, Jr., who left this world on May 14, 2025 at age 66.

Born on Nov. 10, 1958 in Rome, N.Y., John (JD) was a beloved son, father, brother and grandfather. His caring spirit and vibrant personality touched the lives of many, and his legacy will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. 

John was the son of John Dale Umbarger and Patricia Alice Miller. He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia Miller, along with his son, Kevin Dale Umbarger. He is survived by his father, John Umbarger (and his wife Judy), his son John Michael Umbarger (and his wife Trisha) and his siblings, Blynda Coe (and her husband Louis), Billy Joe Umbarger, Cathy Turner (and her husband Michael) and Joseph Sgambelluri (and his wife Michele) and many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. John was also a proud grandfather to Brayden, Bryson and John Michael “Boogie” Umbarger, who brought immense joy to his life. 

Throughout his life, John embraced his work as a custom tile and floor setter. His exceptional skills led him to work for Home Depot and on projects such as the Alaskan pipeline, where he built lasting friendships and left a mark of excellence in his craft. 

John was a man of many interests and hobbies. He took great pleasure in bowling, hunting (with his best buddy, Bill Mayo), fishing and watching NASCAR and football. His passion for motorcycles and Camaros was well-known among his friends and family, and he cherished every moment spent on the open road. John found peace in the simple pleasures of life – golfing, shooting bows and arrows and marveling at sunsets. He loved spending time on the baseball and soccer fields where he cheered his grandsons on. 

Family was at the core of John’s being. He loved creating lasting memories with his children and grandchildren, and he treasured the time spent with his siblings, reflecting the strong family bonds that defined his life. His unwavering love and support will be missed, but his spirit will forever live on in the stories shared and the laughter remembered. 

A celebration of John’s life will be held on May 24, 2025 at the Mineola Civic Center at 2 p.m., and a memorial service at The Church at Benbrook May 31, 2025 at 2 p.m. Friends, family and all whose lives he touched are invited to join in honoring his memory. In lieu of flowers or plants, donations may be made to Texas Oncology, Research Institute (Tyler) or the Mineola Nature Preserve in John’s name. 

John Dale Umbarger, Jr. was a remarkable soul who brought joy and love to all who knew him. He may have left this physical world, but his spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts. Rest in peace, John, you will be dearly missed.