John James Dunleavy Jr.

John James Dunleavy, Jr., 77, of Hull, Georgia died on September 1, 2026, after a lifetime of devotion to his family, beautification of the landscape, and service to the community.

Born December 25, 1948, he was raised in South Hadley, Massachusetts, where he became an EMT and third-generation firefighter for ten years. From age 13 he was a professional drummer with numerous groups throughout the New England states. He also played in the South Hadley High School band, as well as in the 19th and 173rd Army Bands during Viet Nam. After discharge he finished his BA at University of Massachusetts. Partnering with a friend, he established and operated a chimney cleaning, hearth design, and woodstove installation company.

In 1981, John moved to Georgia, his wife Pat’s home state, and started a nursery in Loganville, GA, growing woody ornamental trees and shrubs, later expanding to a second location in Ila, GA. Pinebush Farm and Nurseries operated for over 35 years. Until his death, John continued to maintain the 250-acre Ila farm and the numerous walking paths he lovingly created for Pat. Daffodil planting in the hundreds became an annual ritual for them. John also built and renovated houses and structures for his family and business, using his consummate knowledge of how things work and are built and how to repair them.

John engaged in the local community, including becoming a charter member of the Madison County Rotary Club and serving as its President, on its Board of Directors, and as Chair on several committees. He served on the county’s Board of Equalization, the Madison County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and the Georgia Farm Bureau Ornamental Horticultural Commodity Advisory Committee, among others.

RVing with Pat, including month-long trips "Out West," filled their 51 years together. He suddenly passed one week shy of what would have been their 20th such trip. He also enjoyed woodworking, particularly making furniture; cooking holiday meals for extended family; canning tomato products; playing tennis; and visiting Gibbs Gardens, the North Carolina mountains, and the South Carolina coast.

John had an amazing memory for persons and events in his life and often told stories about them. Dry humor added to his repertoire. He always told prospective employees they would be given his birthday off.

John is survived by his wife, Patricia Godwin Dunleavy; son James Dunleavy (Laurin); grandchildren Mac and Eloise; and daughter Catherine Dunleavy (Joe Taylor).

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Rotary Club of Madison County,

P.O. Box 596, Danielsville, GA 30633 and Mount Holyoke College—Botanic Garden & Arboretum, 50 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, East, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com