John Michael Havas, III, age 63, passed away Tuesday evening, May 5, 2026, at Regional One Medical Center in Memphis, TN.

Funeral services will be 5:00 P.M. Saturday, May 9, 2026, in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the family receiving friends beginning at 3:00 P.M. prior to the service. Following the service, the interment will be in Bethel Cemetery in Enid, MS with full firefighter honors.

John was born on February 19, 1963, in Chester, Pennsylvania and lived a life marked by devotion—to his family, his faith, and his service.

John's career began as a skilled welder, but his true calling was found in the flame of sacrifice and brotherhood. For forty years, he gave tirelessly to the Sardis Lake Volunteer Fire Department, dedicating two decades to leading as Fire Chief. His commitment not only protected lives and property but inspired countless others through his unwavering courage and selflessness. The fire department and all his fellow firefighters were more than colleagues; they were family to John.

He was a deeply spiritual and religious man, instilling those values in his loved ones. John's heart was especially tender toward children, and his love for family shone brightly in every moment. He delighted in coaching his grandsons’ little league baseball team, nurturing their talents and dreams just as he did with great care in every aspect of his life. His hobbies reflected his passion for the outdoors and family bonding: whether working on four-wheelers and side-by-sides in his shop, jug fishing on Sardis Lake, or making treasured annual journeys to the Smoky Mountains to revel in the beauty of Cades Cove.

John’s connection with his family was the cornerstone of his world. He adored his wife, Jennifer Kiihnl Havas of Sardis, Mississippi, lavishing her with care and companionship. Proud father to John Michael Havas, IV (and his wife Nicole) of Sardis and Patrick Stigler, his bonus son, John found immense joy in guiding and supporting his four grandchildren—Allie Havas, William Jackson, Harper Taylor, and John Michael Havas, V. Family gatherings were enlivened by his warmth and infectious spirit. He shared a special bond with his son through deer hunting, creating memories forged in nature's quiet majesty.

John is now reunited with his parents, John Michael Havas, Jr. and Dolores Fisher Havas, his dear sister, Loré Havas Eskridge, and his sister-in-law, Jeanne Davis Goforth whose memories continue to reflect in the hearts of all who knew him. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jennifer; his sons John Michael Havas, IV and Patrick Stigler; his grandchildren; as well as cherished sisters-in-law Jackie O’Conner of Pope, Mississippi, and Kathy Pool of Batesville, Mississippi. John also leaves behind his cherished nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly.

John Michael Havas, III’s legacy is one of profound service, steadfast love, and enduring faith. His life was a testament to the power of dedication to others and the rich joy found in family and community. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the flames of his spirit will forever burn brightly in the lives he touched.