John McAfee III Obituary

John (Johnny) Howard McAfee III, of Bowie, Maryland, passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 21, 2025, at the age of 50.

Born on January 10, 1975, at Cafritz Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. Johnny was the beloved son of Karen Campbell. He grew up in Hillside, Maryland as the first boy born to a family of girls. He quickly became their living "babydoll"- the centerpiece of countless memories. He continued to become the heart of his friends and family's lives, an everlasting impression on all those he encountered. Johnny will be remembered for his unyielding love, quiet strength, and the joyous laughter he inspired in those lucky enough to truly know him.

Though introverted by nature, Johnny was deeply loving and compassionate. He cared fiercely for his family and showed it in countless ways-from doing silly dances and telling the best jokes to creating wild snack inventions that somehow always worked. He loved the beach, fishing, golfing, and cheering for his favorite teams-the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Capitals. He was rarely ever seen without his signature baseball cap and a shirt with the sleeves cut off-his own laid-back, unmistakable style.

As a father, he was hands-on and tremendously affectionate. He was famous in the family for his super-tight ponytails before school, always reminding his daughters not to move their heads-though he was the one doing the moving. He played every game his kids asked him to: from pickleball and catch to baseball and frisbee or even making TeePees in the woods that seemed to survive every storm. Even while living with chronic back pain, Johnny never let it stop him from being present, frequently making impossibilities into reality to bring a smile to his children's faces. He played with his granddaughters, pushing them on swings, pulling them in wagons, jumping on trampolines, and giving shoulder rides. He made them laugh, and kept their hearts-and stomachs- full.

Johnny loved harder than anyone else and fought enduring pain every day for his beloved children and grandchildren. There was never a time where they doubted his pride in each and every one of them as he was sure to show it daily.

A strong and willing man who maintained a compassionate touch as soft as butter, Johnny didn't have much by way of material goods, but he gave his family something far more valuable: unconditional love, undivided time, and unmatched joy. He had a gift for turning the ordinary into something unforgettable, and always made sure his children felt cared for, safe, and happy all with a laugh that could make any heart melt.

John is survived by his loving children: Corrine McAfee, Alyssa McAfee, Tyler McAfee and Kayleigh McAfee; step daughter Carolyn Calhoun; Ex-Wife and close friend Tina Thompson; his cherished mother, Karen Campbell and Step-father Dwayne Campbell; and his siblings Brian McAfee, Richard Reynolds, Rebecca Reynolds, and Jazmin Campbell; and his adored granddaughters; Alina Cooper and Averie Cooper.

Johnny's memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the lessons he imparted, and the deep, unconditional love he gave so freely. Though his healing hands and medicinal laugh are now gone he will be remembered in egg sandwiches, butterscotch pancakes, and the smell of fresh brewed coffee by the bay. His legacy will be carried on by those he was proudest of: his children and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at 1:00 PM at 125 Crescent Rd, Greenbelt, MD 20770. All who knew and loved Johnny are welcome to attend and celebrate his life