Visitation

July 17, 2025
3 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Service

July 17, 2025
2 p.m.

Committal

N/A

John Victor Jokinen, 81, died on June 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He passed as he lived—with courage, grace, and integrity.

John was the youngest child of the late Uno Alvar Jokinen and Rachel Porthan Jokinen. He was preceded in death by his sister, Joan Jokinen Tate, and his brother, Robert Jokinen.

John’s family roots were deeply Finnish. His grandfather emigrated first from Finland to the United States, followed by his grandmother, who courageously navigated Ellis Island alone with her children—speaking no English and armed only with perseverance. This spirit of grit and determination, known in Finnish as Sisu, became a defining thread through John’s life.

John’s grandparents later settled in Ely, Minnesota, where his parents grew up before relocating to DeLand, Florida to raise their own family. There, John thrived in both academics and athletics—starting in Little League and culminating in a senior-year State Championship in baseball. He graduated as Salutatorian from DeLand High School in 1961 and was later inducted into the DeLand High School Sports Hall of Fame, where his children and grandchildren cheered him on.

John went on to attend the University of Florida, graduating in 1965. A proud Gator for life, he served as president of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity during his junior and senior years. He rarely missed watching the Gators play and especially enjoyed celebrating their most recent NCAA men's basketball national championship. During his final illness, John’s family made sure he was never without his beloved Gator socks and pajamas. He also remained a lifelong fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers and Atlanta Braves.

Growing up along the banks of the St. Johns River in DeLand, John developed an early fascination with Cypress wood as he watched massive trees float downstream to be processed at the mills his father managed. That childhood experience sparked a passion that would guide his distinguished career in fine furniture—most notably as co-founder of E.J. Victor.

After college, John joined Simmons Company as a sales representative. His first territory was in Albany, Georgia, where he met Huntie Hall, a high school teacher. They married in 1967. After 12 years with Simmons, John joined Henredon Furniture in Morganton, NC, in 1979. He credited his mentor, Henredon president William E. Smith, for shaping his knowledge of the furniture industry.

As the industry changed in the late 1980s and early 1990s, John made the bold decision to start a new company. In 1989, John, Edward W. Phifer, III, and Joseph B. Manderson co-founded E.J.Victor, with instrumental support from George D. Johnson, Jr., Stewart Johnson and Dan Breeden. They persuasively recruited retired Henredon executive M.C. Talley, who selected equipment and personnel and provided trusted advice. John’s leadership, vision and perseverance were pivotal to E.J. Victor becoming one of the premier furniture manufacturers in the United States. The company reflected John’s principles of integrity, fairness, and a deep appreciation for customer relationships and the dedicated employees.

John was a faithful member of Grace Episcopal Church, where he served on the Vestry, as a lay reader, and as chairman of the Stewardship Campaign. He also served on the Grace Hospital Board and was the first Chairman of the Grace Healthcare Foundation.

He enjoyed hunting in the Carolinas and South Georgia, and cherished the days fishing with his grandchildren at Pawleys Island, South Carolina.

John was an encourager and mentor—not just to future furniture leaders, but to young athletes and aspiring professionals. He was a role model to his children and grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Big John.” He lived with humility and grace, never seeking attention and always inspiring those around him.

John’s journey—from the banks of the St. Johns River to the foothills of Western North Carolina—was marked by 58 remarkable years in the furniture industry. His legacy of Sisu, generosity, and strength will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Huntie Hall Jokinen; his daughter, Jeanne Jokinen Bradshaw (Michael); his son, John Hunter Jokinen (Meg); and his grandchildren: Hall, Smith, Hayden, and Cooper Bradshaw, and Thomas and Robert Jokinen. He is also survived by his sister, Joyce Jokinen Sims (Dave); sister-in-law, Mimi Langley Conner (Frank); and nine nieces and nephews.

The family expresses deep gratitude to Dr. Jennifer Atlas (Levine Cancer Institute, Charlotte), Dr. Greg Jones (UNC Health Blue Ridge), Dr. Keith Smith (Burke Primary Care), the Amorem Hospice Team, and John’s compassionate caregivers: Denise, Martha, Grace, and Tiffany.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Grace Episcopal Church, 303 South King Street, Morganton, with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Grace Episcopal Church Endowment, 303 South King Street, Morganton, NC 28655 or Amorem Hospice, 902 Kirkwood Street, Lenoir, NC 28645.

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

Tribute Wall

Leave a tribute for John Victor Jokinen.

Black Candle
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—Mary Jo Polo
Beige Candle

Hearing of John's passing had an enormous effect on me. I've known John and the family for many decades. From my early years in retail spanning over many decades, John displayed true character and friendship that I cherish. In addition to being a great mentor and teacher, doing business with John was a thrill and enormous fun. His zest for the business was extraordinary and I learned so much from him. His legacy will be remembered by many. Claire Goldhagen

—Claire Goldhagen
Beige Candle

It saddens me to have learned John had passed. Very hard to believe. John was a great person to work with during the time me and my colleagues had known him. He is and will be missed. Rest in Peace, John.

—Cesar L Piezas

It is with great sadness to that we say goodbye to a true gentleman, partner and mentor. Everyone at the Jimeco family will miss John and will remember him for all that he did for us. There is nothing but gratitude and admiration in our hearts. We thank God for having placed John in our path, seldom does one have the good fortune to meet such a wonderful man. Our prayers with John H. and Huntie and their entire family, as well as the EJ Victor family that John lead. -from Colombia with love Antonia, Luis and the Jimeco Family.

—Luis & Antonia
White Candle

Either deepest sympathies to all family and friends. John was truly an exceptional human being. He will never be forgotten. May his memory be a blessing. Claire Goldhagen

—Claire Goldhagen

One of the kindest Men best boss most caring loving person I've ever worked for EJV will never be the same without him. Truly heartbroken fir his family. Thank you for EVERYTHING

—Mistie Beach

John was always kind, friendly and professional, he will be missed. Gigi and Paysage team

—Paysage
Burgundy Candle

Our team from Paysage is saddened by John's passing. He was always professional, kind and friendly. Gigi and Judy

—Paysage
Burgundy Candle

Our team from Paysage is saddened to hear about Jon. He was always professional, kind and friendly. He will be missed. Gigi and Judy

—Paysage

It saddens me to hear of his passing. He was a nice man that always greated you with a smile. I will keep his family and friends in my thoughts and prayers. God bless.

—Sharon Carlton