Mr. John Henry Shorty

Mr. John Henry Shorty, 78, of Peoria, Illinois, fell asleep in death peacefully at 5:12 a.m. on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. He left this life with the same calm faithfulness he carried each day, trusting in the promises of the God he served so dearly. Born on December 8, 1946, in Inverness, Mississippi, to Frank and Signora (Wilson) Shorty, John grew into a man known for his quiet strength, gentle humor, and deep love for people. On April 13, 1977, he married the love of his life, Dorothy Young, beginning a 48-year journey built on devotion, tenderness, and shared faith. While John worked diligently for 35 years at Caterpillar before retiring, the work closest to his heart began on February 16, 1975—the day he dedicated his life to Jehovah and symbolized it through baptism. From that moment, he walked a path of spiritual purpose. As a caring Elder in the Parkside Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, John offered comfort, guidance, and encouragement to all who needed it. Sharing Bible truths, visiting with neighbors, and serving side by side with his spiritual family brought him immeasurable joy. John’s life was shaped by qualities that reflected his faith—honesty, humility, gentleness, and an unwavering kindness. Those around him saw in his eyes a quiet confidence in Jehovah’s loving promises, especially the hope that death is not the end. That hope brings us comfort today. John believed with all his heart in Jehovah’s assurance that “there is going to be a resurrection” (Acts 24:15). He trusted the words of Jesus: “The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out” (John 5:28, 29). John now rests safely in Jehovah’s memory, awaiting the moment when he will awaken again—healthy, joyful, and surrounded by those who love him. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Dorothy Shorty; his beloved sisters, Daisy Shorty, Willie Belle DuBose, and Ann (Myron) Fox, all of Peoria, IL; and his seven children—five sons: Lloyd Shorty, Robert Shorty, Michael Shorty, Frederick Bernard Young (Ricky), and Lloyd Dotson; and two daughters: Nasali Romaine Young (Sue), all of Peoria, IL and Johnetta Greene of Summerville, SC. He is also survived by his grandchildren, nieces, nephews, a devoted family of in-laws, and many dear friends whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Pearl Black and Armanda Coleman; one brother, Jessie Shorty; and one grandson, Michael Shorty Jr. John was greatly loved, and he loved greatly in return. Though he now sleeps, his faith, his kindness, and his example remain alive in the hearts of all who knew him. His family awaits the day when he will stand again—smiling, whole, and full of joy—on the earth made new. A memorial service in his honor will be held on December 13, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, located at 6007 N. Big Hollow Road, Peoria, IL.

Mr. John Henry Shorty

December 8, 1946 - December 3, 2025