John Freeman Corn

John Freeman Corn departed this life on April 17, 2024 at the age of 80. John was born January 2, 1944 to the late Lorenzo Corn and Helen (Pope) and grew up in Dedham, MA. He attended Dedham High School, where he was a member of the baseball and football teams. In the 1970’s John relocated from Boston to the sunshine state; spending many years in Sarasota, Florida and then settling in St. Petersburg, Florida.

John spent his career as an auto-body painter & technician. His skills and creativity in this field were held in high regard. He particularly enjoyed classic cars. His own collection included a 1970 Mercury Cougar and a van that he lovingly customized into a showstopper that boasted hardwood floors and running boards. John was a member of van clubs in both Boston and Florida. Over the years, he had many CB radio handles including “Moon Shadow”. John had many interests and passions all of which he achieved levels of mastery that left family and friends in awe.

Early in life, he was interested in the martial art of Aikido, a little later in life he became an avid runner. He participated and placed in many 10k races and marathons in Florida, Chicago and California. He was particularly proud that he ran the Boston marathon twice! After hanging up his running shoes, he took up the sport of golf. This is where he found peace, solitude and a great passion for the sport. There was rarely a time that he did not have a golf club in his hand. His dedication paid off and John excelled greatly as a golfer. He won many golf tournaments and boasted having achieved the elusive Hole-in-One! John was inventor of a back scrubber named “The Bath Fiddle” for which he held a patent.

He never met a stranger. Many knew him as a warm, funny and charismatic man.

Leaving to cherish his memories are: his children, Wayne Corn, Aaron Corn, Radiah Corn Minor, Phoebe Garcia, Gary & Nicole Drew and Jomo & Amy Drew; sister Gayle Corn, ex-wife and life-long friend Ruth Ann Bryant, and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless friends. He is preceded in death by: Gwen Corn (wife) Helen & Lorenzo (parents) Annie Martin (sister) Tommy & Larry Corn (brothers) and Jovonne Corn (grandson).

We the family, wish to thank all our friends and other family members for your many acts of kindness and concern during this hour of bereavement.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, May 24, 2024, at 2pm at Charles Street AME Church, 551 Warren St., Boston, MA 02121.

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