John L. “Johnnie” Firth Jr., 85, of Gloucester, died suddenly at home on Saturday, March 17, 2018, on his 67th wedding anniversary.

Johnnie was owner of Gloucester Country Club, and by trade was a welder, fabricator and was known for doing anything he set his mind to at his own pace. He was previously associated with Firth Brothers Iron Works, Newport News Shipbuilding, and Norfolk Naval Base, and was a Mason with the Poquoson Masonic Lodge #49 AF & AM for over 50 years.

He was an avid hunter and an active member of Shack Hunt Club. Johnnie hunted big game from northern Montana to South Texas. He also had his Captain’s License and loved being on the water to go on a fishing trip, or even just for a boat ride.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John L. Firth Sr. and Murdie Carmines Firth, and brother, Addie Hope Firth.

Johnnie is survived by his St. Patrick’s Day bride, Barbara Firth; son, John L. Firth III (Michelle); daughter, Debra Firth Diggs (Elmer); grandchildren, Jamey Diggs (Lindey), Natalie Hallett (Steve), Remle Sherman, John Firth IV, and Mara Firth (Daniel); great-grandchildren, Dawson Newton, Casey Redd, Lem Diggs, Chloe Redd, Delaney Sherman, Gibb Diggs and Christopher Sherman.

A funeral service, conducted by the Rev. Buddy Chapman and the Rev. Chris McMillan, will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 22, 2018, at Providence Baptist Church, Hayes. Interment with Masonic Rites will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park, Hampton. The family will receive friends at Hogg Funeral Home on Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home and Crematory, Gloucester Point. Please visit www.hoggfh.com to share condolences and memories.