John Douglas Elston, 73, was born May 9, 1943 in Talladega, Alabama to James and Irene Elston. His parents; five brothers, Karcile Elston, Willie Elston, Ernest Elston, Jerry Elston and Wallace Elston; two sisters, Lillie Elston and Gladys Milbry; and son-in-law, Trent Williams all preceded him in death. John joined St. Mary Baptist Church in Lincoln, Alabama at an early age. He later met the love of his life, Ms. Mary Helen Westbrook and united in holy matrimony on January 30, 1962. Two children were born to their union. In 1965, John and Mary moved to Kansas City, Missouri. He gained employment at Armco Steel Corporation for several years. He later was employed at the Martin Foundry, from which he retired after twenty years of service. After retirement, John enjoyed cookouts and barbeques with family and friends, and spending time with his children, grandchildren and great granddaughters. He also loved listening to the Blues. John never met a stranger and left an impression in the hearts of all he came in contact with. John departed this earthly life on November 15, 2016, surrounded by his family. He will be sorely missed by all whose life he touched. Precious memories will forever live on in the hearts of his loving wife of fifty-four years, Mary Helen Elston; two daughters, Shunda Elston-Williams and Tamera Elston-Thomas (Sean); one brother, Michael Elston (Donna); Bettye Whitley (Larry), Ida Truss, Leva Woods, Eva Moore, Revonia Elston, Glenda Harris and Dazzarine White; one brother-in-law, Tommie Westbrook (Mamie); three sisters-in-law, Connie Elston, Alice Delaney and Erris Houston; five grandchildren, Christopher Sean Douglas, Ebony Elston, Kiesha Collins, Ta'Nyah Thomas and Taleyah Thomas; two great granddaughters, Syriah Sanders and Kree Sanders; God-daughter, Vonetta Elston-Jackson and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, other relatives and friends. Memorial services will be Saturday, November 26, 2:00 p.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Family hour will be from 1:30-2:00 p.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.