J.P. Messer, 88, of Lakeland, Florida, passed away just before midnight on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Born on January 29, 1937, to Walter and Evie (Hicks) Messer, J.P. was a lifelong Floridian. His family moved from Graceville to Lakeland in 1950, and he made the Lakeland area his home ever since.

J.P. proudly served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959. On June 18, 1999, he married Judy C. Stivers, and together they shared 22 joyful years of marriage until her passing in May 2021.

In addition to his beloved wife Judy, J.P. was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jimmy Paul, and his son-in-law, Robert "Rocky" Johnson. He is survived by his children: Roy, Joell, and Joseph Messer, Sandra Johnson, Julie (Mike) Krause, and Patricia (Jim) Kuz; and his brother Jimmy Messer.

He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 2:00 - 3:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 PM, at Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home, Serenity Gardens Chapel, 3350 Mall Hill Drive.