John Dee Hammonds Jr.

FALMOUTH – John Dee Hammonds Jr., 79, of Burnham Woods Circle, Scarborough, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026, at Sedgewood Commons in Falmouth, after a battle with dementia.

John was born on April 14, 1947, in Portland, to John D. Hammonds Sr. and Doris A Hammonds. He grew up alongside his younger sister, Bonnie Jo, and attended South Portland Schools, class of 1966. During this time, he developed a love for basketball and baseball. His passion for sports continued throughout his life, later becoming an umpire and remaining an enthusiastic supporter of the games he loved.

John worked for the railroad for 17 years before building a career as a finance manager in the automotive field. Though naturally quiet, John had a sharp mind and was especially gifted with numbers. He genuinely enjoyed interacting with coworkers and clients, forming many lasting connections throughout his years of work. His steady nature, intelligence, and quick sense of humor made him someone people truly loved being around.

John also had a passion for cards, especially blackjack, and frequently traveled to Las Vegas. He even considered becoming a card dealer himself.

In 1988, John married the love of his life, Marlene Haskell. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, laughter, and companionship. Each year, they traveled to Tennessee to hear their favorite musicians and create cherished memories together.

They resided in Portland, before moving to Florida in 2012, and later returned to Maine in 2023 to live with family in Scarborough. John and Marlene shared a beautiful bond that was evident to everyone around them. They could often be found singing their favorite songs together or praying hand and hand.

John is survived by his sister, Bonnie Jo Perry; his nephews, Joseph Grabarz and wife Kristine, and Anthony Grabarz; his brother-in-law, William Grabarz; his four stepchildren, Christine Cloutier and husband Jon, James Haskell and wife Julie, Kathie Murphy and husband Patrick, and Robert Haskell; and his lifelong best friend, Tom Wakefield, who stood by and supported him until the end.

He was predeceased by his father, John D. Hammonds Sr.; his mother, Doris A. Hammonds; and his beloved wife, Marlene D Hammonds.

John’s wonderful sense of humor, kind heart, and deep love for his family and friends will be profoundly missed by all who knew and adored him.