John David "JD" Seare, of Selma, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on July 14, 2026, just nine days before his 88th birthday. He was 87 years old.

Born on July 23, 1938, in New York City, New York. John was the son of Jack Seare and Jean Lord, a brother to Joann Cuifitelli and Glenn Walker, all of whom preceded him in death.

To those who knew him best, he was simply "JD." To many others, he was something even more profound—a lifeline, a mentor, a trusted friend, and often the steady voice on the other end of the phone when hope seemed hardest to find.

JD devoted the last 30 years of his life to Alcoholics Anonymous, celebrating three decades of sobriety at the time of his passing. His own journey of recovery became the foundation of a life's mission: helping others find theirs.

His commitment to those in recovery knew no boundaries. He answered every phone call. He responded to every text. He kept his phone beside him throughout the night because he never wanted someone in crisis to feel alone. If someone needed him at two o'clock in the morning, he went. If the drive was long, he made it. His dedication wasn't measured by words, but by countless acts of compassion, one person at a time. He never sought recognition for the lives he changed; helping others was simply who he was.

While his service to others defined much of his life, those closest to him will remember his infectious sense of humor, his playful spirit, and his unwavering dependability. He had a gift for making people laugh, easing heavy moments, and reminding everyone around him that joy and hope could exist even during life's greatest struggles.

JD is survived by his wife, Jackie; his daughters, Rhoda Norwood (William) and Christine Yager (Joel); Grandson Joshua Faircloth, Granddaughters Lindsay Yager and Sonia Grace Yager, Stepdaughter Angelique Rose (Beverly), Stepson Darius Eugene Rose II (Rebekah), and one great-grandchild.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a recovery organization of their choice, honoring JD's lifelong commitment to helping others find hope, healing, and a new beginning.

JD’s greatest memorial is not found in stone, but in the quiet victories of those who continue living sober, one day at a time, because he never stopped believing they could.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." — Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

A celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church in Smithfield. The time and date for the celebration will be announce soon.