Obituary of Johnie Jack Haskins

Johnie Jack Haskins of Roanoke passed away Sunday, December 7, 2014 at the age of 82. He was born on May 11, 1932 to the late Walter Coleman and Nannie Rigney Haskins. Proceeding him in death is his wife of 57 years, Verna Shartzer Haskins. He composed a song for Verna entitled 'Verna's Waltz' and a video was produced by Sharon Meyers at Marcia Lawrence’s home, Melody Haven. This can be viewed on YouTube under the heading of The Johnie Haskins Band. He is survived by his two children, Vickie Vest and Robert Haskins; three granddaughters, Nicolette, Meagen and Sarah Reed; five grandchildren, Aiden, Elijah, Isaiah, Owen “nugget”, Siena Jade, and one on the way; close friends, Junior Ibrahim, Derek Clark; brothers, Dennis and Alan; sisters, Joyce and Mary, along with many nieces, and nephews, a close cousin, George Wells, and longtime friends, Eddie and Judy Johnson. Johnie graduated from Callands High School and DTI in Danville, Virginia. He served in the United States Army and is a Korean War Veteran, a longtime member of Red Hill Baptist Church. He retired from the Roanoke Times after many years of service as a printer. An accomplished self-taught musician on the fiddle as a child. He then learned to play the mandolin and guitar and enjoyed teaching many, many students old time and Blue Grass fiddle for years. He had a passion for music and enjoyed playing with several local bands. He was the first inductee to the Coffee Pot Wall of Fame, on December 18, 2013 after playing there with The Guard band. He also enjoyed a good game of checkers and he loved and helped his family with all that he had. Many thanks for all the cards, phone calls, prayers from the friends and family during his illness. A graveside service will be held 2:00pm Thursday, December 11, 2014 in Sherwood Memorial Park, Salem, Va. with Rev. James Jordan officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Carilion Clinic Hospice in his memory. Friends may send their condolences to the family by visiting www.simpsonfuneral.com. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory, 366-0707.