John Loftin Lankford

John Loftin Lankford, 64, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2020. John is survived by his loving wife Becky Carswell Lankford and daughters Claire Lankford of Raleigh and Kate Lankford of Houston, TX.  He is also survived by his siblings Ann Garrou of Rocky Mount, Dean Lankford and his wife Julie of Rutherford College, and Scott Lankford and his wife Susan of Greensboro, and nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Dean and Auda Lee Lankford, and his sister, Mary.

John was born in High Point on February 28, 1955, moved to Rutherford College as a child, and graduated from Valdese High School in 1973. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Design at NC State University in 1977. He went on to work as an architect at several firms in Charlotte, and later became an architectural sales manager for United States Gypsum, Lafarge North America and most recently WireBond.

John loved spending time with his family, fly fishing, and driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway in his convertible. His family and friends will always remember his integrity, kindness, and wit.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Grace Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center for their patience and compassionate care.

The family will receive friends at Linville United Methodist Church, 4446 Hwy 126, Morganton, on January 11, 2020 at 1 pm. The celebration of life will be held at 2 pm following the receiving of friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Linville United Methodist Church Building Fund, and will be used in renovations to improve handicap accessibility.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.