John Ezekiel Lancaster

John Ezekiel Lancaster (December 31,1937-October 25, 2025) was the third of four children born to Cullen Bartlett and Mattie Cothern Lancaster. He grew up on a farm in the community of Midway near Hawkinsville, GA. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Juanita, C.B. Jr. and Wendell.

John served in the Navy before moving to Valdosta GA to attend Valdosta State College. There he met and married Sharon Boatright. After graduating he moved his family to Athens, GA. There he earned a Master’s and Doctorate at University of Georgia. The family eventually returned to Valdosta where John spent his career as Director of Development and as Professor of History at Valdosta State. He was a member of First Baptist Church, the Rotary club, The Elks Club and The Valdosta Historical Society.

After retirement John lived many years on Lake Blackshear with his second wife, Kathleen Cavenaugh. There he immersed himself in genealogical research. John was a persistent scholar and philosopher and was always generous with his research and information.

For the last five years John has lived on Hilton Head Island. He lost Kathleen last year. He is survived by his children Kevin Lancaster (Meredith), Laurie Foster (Lauren), his grandchildren, Brandon Swift (Becky), Katelyn Lancaster, Rebecca Lancaster, Brooke Foster, and his great grandson, Oliver Swift.

A Memorial Service at Corinth Baptist Church in Hawkinsville, GA. is scheduled for Saturday November 15 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers John’s wish was for a donation to be made in his name to www.powerfulproject.org.