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John “Big John” Mason Flowers, 68, of Tampa, passed away July 13, 2021 in his home surrounded by family and his beloved dogs, Hopps and Brewser. John was born January 15, 1953 in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late John Grayson and Cora Patricia (Purvis) Flowers. John grew up in the south, graduated high school in Bradenton, and went to college at Florida State University in Tallahassee.

His career as a video engineer started at WFSU until he moved to Tampa to join Channel 8 (NBC). After leaving Channel 8, he continued to work covering Buccaneers, Rays and Lightning games, and travelled to Russia, England, Canada and other countries to bring us the summer and winter Olympics.

John was a loving son, brother and uncle, and on March 27, 1999, he married Deirdre, the love of his life. John is fondly remembered for his witty sense of humor, kind heart, musical talent and bear hugs, and is described as a gentle giant and a fiercely loyal friend. A dear friend recently shared, “Not only was he a great big man, he was a big, great man”. Like “Norm” in Cheers, everyone knew his name and friends enjoyed catching up with him over a Jack Daniels or two at local watering holes such as the Chatterbox, Bella’s, MacDinton’s, Elks Lodge and Outback, or playing the guitar at the Green Iguana.

John is survived by his wife, Deirdre of Tampa, Florida; brothers Edward (Susan) Flowers of Bradenton, Florida, Charles (Betsy) Flowers of Bainbridge, Georgia, and Frank (Pam) Flowers of Bainbridge, Georgia; sister De (Don) Cook of Bainbridge, Georgia; 4 nephews, 5 nieces and a host of grand-nieces and grand-nephews; and sister-in-law Cate (Craig) Wells, of Temple Terrace, Florida.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and he will be laid to rest in Georgia. Family and friends will celebrate his life at a later date. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.blountcurry.terraceoaks.com or www.iveyfuneral.com.

Ivey Funeral Home, 502 S. Scott Street, Bainbridge, Georgia 39819. (229) 246-3232. www.iveyfuneral.com is in charge of local arrangements.