John Redfern

John Redfern Jr., 71, of Apple Creek and formerly of Crooksville known to many as Johnny and affectionately by some as Dead Eye, passed away unexpectedly on May 16, 2026, in Apple Creek, Ohio, the same day he was born in 1955. He was born in Zanesville, Ohio, to the late John and Virginia (O’Leary) Redfern and lived a life marked by hard work, loyalty, humor, and a deep appreciation for the people around him. He was a man who made an impression wherever he went, and those who knew him will remember his funny, friendly nature and the way he could bring a smile to a room with a joke, a story, or simply his ornery charm. Johnny spent his life working in a variety of trades and settings, always willing to put in an honest day’s work. He worked as an auto body painter at Kane Pontiac and later at the Ferro/Cesco Plant before retiring from FlorLine Company in Massillon, Ohio. During his years with FlorLine, he traveled to the east coast on multiple occasions, and he took pride in the work he did and the experiences he gained along the way. Outside of work, Johnny enjoyed a full and active life surrounded by friends, family, and fellow members of the many social circles he valued so deeply. He was a member of Orrville VFW Post 3446, Fredericksburg Legion Post 651 as a Son of the American Legion, and Wooster Fraternal Eagles Aerie #811. He also served as a member of the Color Guard for Wooster Legion Post 68, an involvement that reflected his respect for service and tradition. These associations were important to him, and he found great enjoyment in the fellowship, camaraderie, and sense of belonging they provided. Johnny especially enjoyed playing cards, and poker with his buddies was one of his favorite pastimes. He also loved telling jokes, socializing with friends, and spending time at the various social clubs where he held memberships. He enjoyed golf, fishing, and cornhole, and he was always ready to lend a hand or help someone out however he could. His generosity was not always loud or formal, but it was steady and sincere. He showed care through his actions and through the time he gave to others, and he was happiest when he was among the people, he considered extended family. Family meant a great deal to Johnny, and he is survived by his sons, Keith Redfern, Nick Redfern, and Eric (Laura) Redfern. He was a proud grandfather to Sophia Grace, Kasen Thomas Lee Redfern, and Lyla Barrett. He is also survived by his siblings, Judy Brown, Nancy and Doug Gordon, Kathleen and Dow Cannon, Laura Buck, Rita Redfern, Fred and Cris Redfern, Mark and Kaye Redfern, Marty and Laura Redfern, Steve and Susie Redfern, Brent and Debbie Redfern, and Ron and Kelly Redfern. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Virginia O’Leary Redfern, and by his sisters Maureen Wilson and Cecilia Johnson. Family and friends may gather from 4pm – 6:30pm on Wednesday May 20, 2026, at Ross-Frash Funeral Home, 207 Burley Street, Crooksville, followed by a Celebration of Life beginning at 6:30pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the funeral home or website to offset the costs for the Redfern Family at www.ross-frashfuneralhomes.com