W.T. Shumake & Daughters

April 19, 1956 - July 31, 2026

John Leroy Washington, III also known as "Brother", 70, of Louisville transitioned on July 31, 2026.

Visitation 11-12 Saturday, August 8, 2026 at W.T. Shumake & Daughters Funeral Home. Funeral to follow at 12 noon.

John Leroy Washington III was born on April 19, 1956, in Shelbyville, Kentucky, to John Washington Jr. and Sarah Ann Overall Washington. He was the only son among their six children. At an early age, he accepted Christ and was baptized at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

After moving to Louisville, John, affectionately known as “Brother” by family and friends, attended Jefferson County Public Schools. He played soccer and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1974. Following graduation, he attended Kentucky State University for one year before beginning his career at Kroger. However, he soon discovered his true passion: masonry. Brother loved laying brick and could tell you everything there was to know about it, whether you wanted to hear it or not. His dedication to his craft led to a rewarding career, and he later retired from Schott North America.

Brother had a deep love for music and enjoyed DJing as a weekend hobby. He was a devoted University of Louisville Cardinals fan and loved watching classic black-and-white Westerns, especially Gunsmoke. He approached everything in life with enthusiasm and passion. Whether he was playing Spades and dramatically standing up with one hand raised high before slamming down a Joker, or spending time with family and friends, Brother brought laughter, energy, and joy wherever he went. He was especially proud to be a member of the Newburg community.

On July 31, 2026, God called him home to eternal rest. He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving children, John Dixon, Shavone Dixon, Angela Dixon, and Ronald Irvin; his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his devoted sisters, Cynthia Bolton (Curtis), Mary Bailey, Teresa Washington, Vanessa Washington, and Jacqueline “Jackie” Washington; his special aunt, Lina Collier Birdine; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Brother's legacy of love, laughter, hard work, and unwavering passion for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he is no longer with us in body, his memory will remain a lasting source of comfort, joy, and inspiration.