John Franklin York Jr., age 89, died peacefully on Thursday, November 2, 2017. John was born on September 25, 1928 to John Franklin and May (Williams) York in Saratoga, Texas. John graduated from Reagan High School in Houston, attended Lamar State College of Technology and then completed his education at the University of Houston. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1946 through 1949; during this time, he was stationed in North China. John worked 60 years in the lighting business, designing lighting systems with Phillips Electronics and ending his career with H&H industries in Elmwood, Illinois where he was employed until his death. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge 1218 A.F.& A.M in Irving; he was also a Past Master of Saratoga Masonic Lodge. John is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and 3 sisters. Left to cherish his memory is wife of 47 years, Mary Lynn York; daughters Allyson Utz and husband Jason of Lubbock, Camille Fangue and husband Lynne of Colorado, and Dawn York of Waco. In addition, include grandchildren Barrett Utz, Carson Utz, and Shari Woods as well as great grandchildren Austin Woods and Alexia Woods, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended loving family. A memorial service will be held 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 27, 2017 at Plymouth Park United Methodist Church 1615 Airport Freeway Irving, TX 75062, with Masonic Rites being performed. All attendees are invited to join the family for a lunch and reception following the memorial service at the Church. The family requests memorial donations be made to the Scottish Rite Hospital for Children by going online to www.community.tsrhc.org and clicking donate.