John Lathrop, better known as Buddy Avery, age 74, entered into eternal rest on Sunday, October 18, 2020. John was born in East Lyme, CT but raised in Ansonia, CT by his foster parents, John and Mae Evora (Avery), whom he loved dearly.
He graduated from Pine High School in Ansonia, CT and attended South Central Community College in New Haven, CT. John worked as a machine operator at Hull Dye & Print Works, Inc. in Derby, CT and a truck driver for the H.C. Cook Company in Ansonia, CT. He also worked for New Haven Copper Co. in Seymour, CT as a machine operator until his retirement.
He was a charismatic, outspoken, big-hearted man that loved sports, concerts, plays, long drives, cooking, reading and the casino. He was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and Oakland Raiders. He most enjoyed creating memories with loved ones and friends. He will be remembered by the phrase “I’m doing it my way.”
He leaves to cherish his memory daughters Dawn Lathrop, Johnett Poteete (Rick), Shanaya Lathrop and Tanya Lathrop all of Ansonia; Donna Lathrop of West Haven, Joann Lathrop of Waterbury, Michelle Lathrop of New Britain, Tanisha Smith of New London, Tysheania Tate of Middletown, Renita Lathrop of Derby; sisters, Avis Grant of New Haven, Ruth Rogers of West Haven, Iris Mellow-Barnes of Hamden, Benita Mellow-Lee of Cumberland, Virginia, and Lisa Campo of Massachusetts; brothers, Abdul Latif “Inb-Thomas” (Megan) of Hartford, and Phillip (Kim) Thomas of Waterbury; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a very close cousin, Roberta Darden and lifelong friend, Cal Williams, who has given him many years of stories and laughter. Buddy and Cal are affectionately known to the family as Fred Sanford and Grady. He is predeceased by mother Dorothy Tomas, sister Norma (Cookie) Johnson, and brother Marshall Lathrop.
Walk through visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Jenkins King & Malerba Funeral Home from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Services will be held immediately after and officiated by Pastor Ulysses J. Youngblood, Sr. The Jenkins King & Malerba Funeral Home 12 Franklin St. Ansonia, CT has been entrusted with the arrangements.
