Johnny Lee DeLoatch Sr., a longtime resident of Forestville, Md., passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2015. He was born in Suffolk on Oct. 12, 1947, as the fourth child of the late David Wardell DeLoatch Sr. and Essie Mae DeLoatch.

Johnny attended Suffolk Public Schools and was a graduate of the East Suffolk High School class of 1965. He attended Norfolk State University before starting his career in the printing industry.

Johnny enjoyed a successful career at several printing companies, where he earned several commendations for exemplary performance. He launched JLD Communications, his very own printing services company, where he served as president and chief executive officer.

Johnny was a kind soul who loved traveling, fishing and singing and cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a devoted member of The New Macedonia Baptist Church, where he sang in the Male Chorus and Combined Choir. He was also a member of the gospel group, The Amazing Heavenly Echoes of Upper Marlboro.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife of 47 years, Marie Sessoms DeLoatch; two children, Melinda DeLoatch Speight (William), of Bowie, Md., and Johnny DeLoatch Jr. (Charmaine), of Suitland, Md.; his mother, Essie M. DeLoatch, of Suffolk; two brothers, Charles DeLoatch and Earl DeLoatch, of Suffolk; sister, Dr. Sandra J. DeLoatch, of Suffolk; two paternal aunts, Delores Parker (Thurman) and Dr. Vasti DeLoatch, of Richmond; six grandchildren, Taylor Webb, Isiah Womack, Tamia DeLoatch, Maya Dickens, Jayla DeLoatch and Dante Dickens Jr.; and a host of more family and friends. He was predeceased by his father; brother, David DeLoatch Jr.; and sister, Brenda DeLoatch.

A memorial service celebrating Johnny’s life will be held Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at 11 a.m. at The New Macedonia Baptist Church, 4115 Alabama Ave. Southeast, Washington, DC 20019. Condolences may be extended to the Suffolk family at www.legacy.com or 757-483-2551.