John Mark Vignes, 74, of Chunchula, AL died on May 29, 2023 in Mobile, AL. Since having a stroke in 2021 he has struggled with illness. His final days were spent with family who are saddened by his passing but share relief that he is at peace.
John is survived by his wife of 43 years, Merle Nichols Vignes, siblings: Robert Vignes, Leon Vignes, Janet Vignes Hughey, and Joan Vignes Newman and much loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Charlotte Vignes, and sister, Charlotte Vignes Spruill.
John graduated from Murphy High School in 1966. Joining the track team started his lifelong commitment to running and participation in Port City Pacers. He took college courses at The University of South Alabama before enlisting in the Army from 1968-70. He served in Germany as his brother was already serving with the Navy in Vietnam. After discharge he attended Lake City Community College and Forest Ranger School in Lake City, FL with his brother Robert. John worked in the timber industry for over 40 years and had a tremendous love and admiration for the outdoors. Through both work and play he spent many hours fishing and hunting, his most avid hobbies along with running. He enjoyed fishing in the Gulf and freshwater. Hunting deer, turkey and the occasional intruding coyote or beaver, kept him outdoors. Good memories were made on his boat in the Gulf with family and friends where many tall, and a few true, tales were born. John hunted mostly in Washington County, AL with longtime friends and Perry County, AL on family land. Many of John’s hours were spent educating the next generation on the land and sustainable fishing and hunting practices. His knowledge lives on today in the lives of many.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be sent “in honor of John Vignes” to:
Alabama Forestry Foundation
555 Alabama St Montgomery, AL 36104
334-481-2135
September 8, 1948 — May 29, 2023
Services will be held Friday, June 2, 2023 at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am followed by a graveside service at Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery at 12:00 pm.
Underlying his often hilarious bravado, John was a sincere man, dedicated to a job well done. We spent the harrowing night of Hurricane Frederick together and I enjoyed my association with him for over 40 years with IP and Cooper.
Jack Williams